Best Swimsuits for Older Women – What You Need to Know

For me as a middle aged woman there is nothing worse than buying a swimsuit. The double wammy of trying to find the best swimsuits for older women and selecting something that fits really well is not easy. When I find a great swimwear style thought I tend to stick with it.

The Best Swimsuits for older women

The best bathing suit for a middle aged women might include:

• Darker colours for slimmer appearance
• Not too high cut on the leg
• Tummy control panels
• Wide shoulder straps
• Long sleeves or cap sleeves

As you get older the urge to show off lots of flesh decreases. But that doesn’t mean to say that we shouldn’t show any flesh. Older women in bikinis, that’s okay as long as you’re confident stepping out in one, and why shouldn’t you? I’d say, go for a striking red bikini and be bold!

However, an older woman in a swimsuit can look very elegant, and you might just feel more comfortable wearing something that holds you in, and plumps you up, in all the right places.

From our research the best swimsuits to flatter a mature body are as follows:-

Colour

• A darker colour will always look good because it will have a slimming effect.
• Go for tropical prints on a dark background.
• Blues are always attractive.
• Want to stand out – then red is your BFF!

Shape

• Stay away from swimwear that is cut ultra high on the leg
• Skirt styled swimwear can look great if you pick the skirt right.
• Look for swimsuits with tummy control panels.
• Disguise a curvy tummy with swimsuits that have ruffles around the belly or offer a tiered effect.
• Don’t buy a swimsuit with spaghetti shoulder straps that cut into your flesh – especially around your back.
• Do go for a wider shoulder strap.
• If you’re going to be in the sun for long lengths of time consider a swimsuit that has long sleeves.

Tips for Buying a Swimsuit

How things have changed! How many of you remember styles like these? I certainly do. They were much more modest and less revealing than swimsuits are today, but I’m not sure they were more flattering.

These days the best swimsuits for older women are probably going to be more modest than those you might find in the pages of a fashion magazine aimed at 20 somethings.

I’m not saying you have to cover up, but you might find that you’re not quite as taught and toned as you used to be, so in order not to let all your best bits head south to the Bermuda Triangle there are a few things to consider.

Be realistic about your body shape

Love the body you’re in! It’s wonderful. Don’t worry about your shape. None of us has a perfect body shape, which means we are sometimes super critical which means that shopping for a swimsuit is the most confronting clothes shopping you’re likely to do.

If you have a large bust make sure you buy a swimsuit that will support your boobs. If you have a large tummy, consider a suit with tummy control. Don’t oggle all the teensy weeny itty bitty polka dot bikinis with longing – just be realistic.

Leak Proof Swimwear

If you’re worried about small leaks – don’t stop that from putting on your swimwear and getting onto the beach. Opt for leak-proof swimwear such as the wonderful modern options at Modibodi.

For: Using while in and out of the water to hold light incontinence or periods and spotting or as extra protection on heavy days so you can still go for a dip!
Feels: Like a regular swimming costume, except you’re also comfy and dry on light leak days, leaving you confident to enjoy Summer again!
Impact: Fewer disposable liners and tampons going to landfill or into our oceans.

Check out more styles Here.

Be kind to yourself

Sure you want to look great in your swimwear, but if you’re not feeling comfortable then you won’t be confident.

Perhaps a bikini isn’t for you?

What’s fashionable and featured in all the magazines may look good on paper and on skinny models but don’t let these style icons dictate what’s right for you. I’ve opted for the skirt style swimwear when I’m feeling low on confidence, or my bikini line is looking a little unkempt – that way I can step out in style and not have to worry.

Bingo – Confidence in spades!

Try on lots of styles

This goes without saying. Take your time. Don’t be in a hurry, and try on lots of styles.

• Create a short list and then be critical about how they look on you. Does the leg come up too hight or is it just right?
• Do the bar straps dig in and give you an unsightly flabby look at the back around the shoulders?
• Is there enough tummy control?
• Is there enough support in the bra top?
• What about the colour? Does it suit you and do you have a sarong at home which will match up?

Swimwear do’s and don’ts

• A halter top can accentuate a large bust so be careful of the effect you want to create
• For all day comfort do choose swimwear that has strong shoulder straps (rather than spaghetti type straps) that won’t dig into you
• Highlight your waist with a belt or a wrap tie
• Underwire lined tops can give your bust a bit of a boost
• Embrace separates – then you can go for a different sized top and bottom if necessary
• But if you do go for a tanki do make sure that the tankini top doesn’t ride up – so when you try it on, bend down, stretch up and see how it sits on you when you move around.

All in ones that are great for the sun

If you’re out in the sun a lot, then consider an all in one which is like a mini wetsuit. Having long sleeves, and a zip up front which covers your neckline, you are much more protected from the sun.

Pop on a big floppy hat, a big pair of sunnies, and wear a sarong if you’re walking around the beach or boat, and your sun protection is almost complete.

Why I dislike buying swimwear

So the general scenario goes like this …

Just before we go on holiday, off I trot to buy a swimsuit. Into the changing rooms I go feeling quite brave and optimistic with a handful of lovely cossies.

I’m especially tempted by designer swimwear.

Designer Swimwear

I like the idea of designer swimwear, and the lifestyle it conjure up! But it doesn’t really like me!

By the time I’ve dragged the first dainty swimsuit over my ample curves, I don’t want to go on a beach holiday so much after all.  I’m beginning to realise that I haven’t chosen the best swimsuit for older women. but one for midgets.

This first swimsuit by now is sitting high, too high on my leg line, and I realise that I should have at least gone for a bikini wax before venturing out to try on swimming costumes.

For without putting too fine a point on it, there appears to be a hairy mammoth trying to escape from the leg hole area (which I admit is a little too tight) and as I turn around to get a glimpse of my rear end I recoil in horror as it appears half of my bum is squidged out the back.

The second swimsuit will be the one I selected because I loved the colour. It’s probably like a scene straight out of Bali Hai. How can I possibly go wrong with this one?

First of all I’ve neglected to acknowledge that it has thin straps, and no bra support. It looks dreadful on me. I sag in all the wrong places.

The next one I’ve selected because it’s got a skirt. It hides the hair farm very nicely. But Ohmigosh – I look like the little old lady that I really Do Not Want to turn into.

Having said all this, I do think we’re unnecessarily hard on ourselves as we get older. Getting out onto the sand or into the pool in public should be fun.

To be honest with you, nobody is really watching.

They’re all far too concerned about the impression they’re making themselves.

Knowing that we should just get it on, get out and flaunt it is not that helpful if you really are shy of your body in a swimsuit.

So be aware of a few rules, and get out and have some FUN!

I hope these few simple tips might help you choose a swimsuit which you feel fabulous in and which ultimately gives you confidence.

Get Swimsuit Ready

Before venturing to the shops to try on swimsuits, it’s probably best to shave or wax your legs and your bikini line. Yep get summer ready!

For me honestly, it makes me feel much better about myself. It’s just not kind to an ageing ego to see a hair farm sprouting out all over your body (unless of course that’s how you prefer to look – I’m not judging – we are all different.)

Find a swimwear brand you can rely on

Capriosca Swimwear began over 6 years ago with a focus on fashionable, curvy, plus size swimwear, and I’ve fallen in love with their styles.

I’m wearing a Capriosca Tahiti 3 Tier One Piece * and behind me is the cotton sarong in plum *.

Plus size girls were just not being catered for, and, a lack of quality options when it came to plus size swimwear with stylish, well fitting swimsuits was nearly impossible to find.

Capriosca have created a collection of affordable, quality, long wearing and beautiful swimwear for women with curves.

“We want you to look and feel confident and amazing when you hit the beach or pool wearing one of our swimsuits. Our designs are made with the highest quality fabrics and we carefully select our styles, coloursand prints to create our signature classic elegance and style. You will fall in love with our beautiful swimsuits, that is a guarantee!”

“Our unique annual collections include timeless, durable and practical styles in sizes 10 – 30 and you can expect to see features such as chlorine resistant fabrics, power mesh tummy control, wider and adjustable straps and underwire for amazing bust support and designs that fit cup sizes up to an F. It’s these extra details and quality that make Capriosca Swimwear stand out from the crowd.”

Capriosca Swimwear have a wide range of stylish designs with a swimsuit to suit every bodyshape and style. Available in both one and two piece styles which give you control over coverage and how much skin you want to show.

Capriosca Swimwear creates an innovative range of women’s plus size swimsuits that are available in sizes 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30.

Sequins and Sand Resort and Plus-Size Swimwear

One of my favourite brands of the moment, Sequins and Sand kindly gifted me the swimsuit I’m wearing in below, and I didn’t have to go out in public to try it on at all 🙂 Oh joy!

I think it’s the best swimsuit for older women. It’s a Capriosca * one piece long sleeved in graphic floral, with a zip front, and it fits me perfectly. I’m wearing a Size 12. I love the long length sleeves and high neck because I like to be #sunsmart these days. It also holds me in well in all the right places, and I feel great in it.

Sequins and Sand design and sell fabulous resort wear and plus-size swimwear of all descriptions. If you need a little support, or some FREE styling advice then pop over to the Sequins and Sand website for some help from the experts.

To Bikini or Not? Older Women in Bikinis.

By all means buy a bikini if you love them. Our bodies are instruments not ornaments and we should be proud of them whatever their shape. I’m all for bikini confidence if you can muster it. After 2 caesarean sections, and not keeping up with the prescribed tummy exercises, I’m afraid a bikini is just not for me.

Perhaps a bikini is for you? Check out these styles:

Best Bikinis for Older Women

This Retro Vintage Bikini with High Waisted Bottoms  is a flattering style for older women due to the high waisted pants. I actually think I’d wear this bikini because I love retro bathing suits. Buy from this link if  you are shopping in America or the UK.

Australian readers you might like this colourful Vintage Ruched High Waisted Bikini – Buy it on Prime in Australia here …  Pin up Swimwear High Waisted Bikini.

Best Swimsuits for Older Women

I really like crossover swimskirts  for their flattering shape for curvy mid life women. 

And this is a sexy, slimming style if you’re looking for something to add a little va va voom to your Australian summer:   Oblique Stripes One Piece Swimsuit

Tips for great swimwear style

Push up swimsuits, underwire swimsuits, tummy control swimwear, bathing suit dress we can have it all these days. There is no need to be shy. Follow these tips, look at some of the styles I’ve suggested, then get it on and strut your stuff! You are so worth it 🙂

1. V- necks can be slimming as the eye is drawn downwards to your cleavage.
2. Go for tummy control swimwear.
3. One of the best swimsuits I’ve ever owned was black with a little gold detail. It looked classy, made me look slimmer, and oh la la, I felt sexy.
4. A full swimsuit with arms and a high neck is perfect if you want to spend long hours playing in the sun. Sunsmart is always sexy. Read this post: Sunsafety and Melanomas – What you need to know
5. If you have a large bust, then go for a wider strap on the swimsuit. Leave those spaghetti straps to the less well endowed (or youngsters).
6. Shirring or draping on a swimsuit can help disguise a fuller tummy.
7. Although a swim dress with a skirt attached can be ageing, if it makes you feel more confident about getting out there to swim and play then by all means wear it. If you don’t like showing too much flesh around the top of your legs and bum then rather be on the look out for swim dresses which have more of an A-line shape to them as opposed to a swirly skirt. You might find swim dresses are more flattering.
8. Tankinis can be tricky.  The tops ride up and the bottoms can ride down – if you have a bit of a problem tummy area then Ahem, you might be showing off more of it than you bargained for.  And also, just saying … support for the girls. Tankinis rarely have good lift and separate support.
9. It’s better to spend money on a fabulous swimsuit rather than buying something cheap just because it’s in a sale. Hands up who’s done this and been disappointed? (ME!)
10. The best swimwear fabric is pretty high-tech and will hold you in taking centimetres off the way you look. Plus the best high-tech fabrics are more likely to last the race and should keep their shape despite constant wearing, despite ocean battering and despite chlorine decay. But do check what you’re buying.
11. As we get older we need good bra support.
12. Underwire bathing suits are a good option for fuller breasted ladies because underwire swimsuits will give a good lift and support.
13. You could also try push up swimsuits to give you great shape up top.
14. If you don’t need good bra support you might need padding to give you better shape ‘up top’.
15. We definitely need the best engineered swimwear when it comes to construction as we get older.
16. Have fun choosing the colour. Are you a tropical bird and love bright colours? Go for it! Do you love the flowery look or the block colour look? It goes without saying that a black swimsuit is likely to be the most slimming of all, and with a little gold or silver detail you are going to look elegantly fabulous.
17. Most of all spend a little thought and time finding a well-fitting costume and then as the folks at Sequins and Sand say – step out with #cossieconfidence!
18. Finally, don’t forget a pretty sarong, a wide brimmed sun hat, your sunscreen and some comfy flip-flops and away you go 🙂

BONUS TIP – Don’t forget to wear a hat! If you’re looking for the best hat to protect face from sun (you should be) read my post about the best sun protection hats.

Video – How to Find the Perfect Swimsuit

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If you’ve enjoyed this post you might also enjoy Ultimate Guide to Buying a Bra online… “Need a Lifty Bra for Sagging Breasts? Looking for the best support bras for exercising? Or for the best full figure bras or the most comfortable bra for large breasts? Confused? Relax! We have compiled an ultimate guide to buying a bra online, to help you.” … READ MORE

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