Shopping for swimwear can be stressful at any age, but finding a flattering, flattering suit presents a certain set of challenges for women over 50. You want to look great but still have support and coverage. After years of reaching for basic black pieces or curvy options, it seems audiences—celebs included—are wearing whatever makes them feel good, and we’re here for it. Case in point: Jennifer Lopez, who is still 53 years old Post sexy selfies in flirty swimsuits, and Martha Stewart, who recently became the oldest model on the cover of Sports Illustrated at the age of 81. If you’re a woman over 50 in need of some swimwear advice, you’ve come to the right place. We taped three fashion experts to get the inside scoop on the sexiest and most stylish choices. Keep reading to find a suit that will make you feel like a million bucks.
What are the most popular swimwear styles for women over 50?
while A style blogger for over 50 years Dana Marie believes the best swimwear is “whatever you feel most comfortable in,” and also recommends “one-piece, high-cut bikinis that provide support and have racy details.” The higher cut lengthens legs, scrunches like magic, hides tummy troubles, and more. Fashion expert Joseph KatzDon’t hop on the two-piece train, though, telling Yahoo Life: “The most popular swimwear as we get 50 and over tend to be one-pieces—they’re more forgiving because they cover the areas women want to (hide) most.” “.
But that doesn’t mean your maillot has to be basic! “One-piece swimwear has evolved, and it’s not the old-fashioned look and feel we saw in years. Today, one-piece swimsuits are designed to look flattering, accentuate curves or add definition where women need it and cover up areas they don’t. Women show it.”
What are the basic materials or design details?
The secret to finding the most flattering style? “Focus on support and shaping,” said Zanna Roberts Rasi, fashion guru and Afterpay brand ambassador, who added, “Look for fabric that stretches well, but is also firm enough to sculpt. You want to make sure that the swimsuit will hold its shape over time — there’s no need to flabby bottoms.” Rasi believes the best fabric for a swimsuit is a nylon blend: “It’s very stretchy, durable and much softer than polyester.”
Another detail you always look at is the leg opening in the bottoms of the swimsuit. “Sometimes the seams can be stiff and cut into your legs, resulting in unfamiliar lines. You want to make sure the suit has a good amount of tack around the seams.”
Rasi and Katz both recommend a bodysuit with a built-in underwire. “A one-piece or two-piece style with an underwire top—think a balconette shape—gives the suit great visual detail while providing support,” said El-Rassi. Added Joseph, “Underwire is great because you don’t have to worry about support issues and it gives a neat, built-in look.”
Other details to watch out for are built-in mesh for smoothing purposes, sunscreen fabric, and of course, ruffles. According to Katz, “ruching is a detail that gathers texture and is great because it smooths edges and enhances natural curves.”
What are the best silhouettes?
“One-piece swimsuits, long-sleeved, and retro styles (especially high-waisted bottoms) are among the most popular,” El-Rassi said. According to Afterpay data, sales of vintage styles are up 211% year-over-year with long-sleeved suit styles following, up 159% year-over-year.”
Katz is partial to one-shoulder suits, because they “show a little more but also provide great coverage.” He added that “it’s not a typical swimsuit look, so it’ll stand out a little bit in a good way.” Find options that represent your personal style – and have fun! Experiment with cut-out details, splattered prints, sheer panels, color blocking, and glitter.
Well, ladies: Now that you know what to look for, keep reading to see the 13 styles our experts say are the best swimwear for women over 50.
Cupshe
This popular number is expert and shopper approved.
Marie of over 50 bloggers has listed Cupshe as one of her favorite swimwear brands, thanks to its flattering designs and supportive details. This is the best selling option It has scrunchies around the midsection to smooth out any lumps or bumps and removable padded cups for added shaping. It’s also fully adjustable in the back to help you easily find your perfect fit. exclaimed one five-star reviewer“After three kids and some weight gain, I’m getting shy about a swimsuit, so this one was recommended to me by my boyfriend. I have to say it gives me great confidence. It fits true to size and provides a great fit on both my body and my boyfriend’s (which is very different) structures.”
summersalt
This is my people Summersalt one piece It made Katz’s list a favorite because of its “sexy slit on the back and built-in slimming detail.” The suit uses diagonal stitching, and the brand’s signature compression fabric keeps everything in place. They’re inclusive in size, ranging from a 0-24, and are super supportive at the bust without the use of any added cups or padding and have full coverage in the back. Thousands of shoppers are fans and love how flattering it is and the fact that they never have to adjust themselves when wearing it.
J crew
Kats likes this Stylish one piece “For its subtle details, its slimming effects and its ultra-sexy V-neck.” The suit ranges in size from 0 to 24 and even comes in a long torso version. Besides being machine washable, this full-coverage bodysuit also has built-in UPF 50 sun protection. Even better, it’s made with 60% recycled materials—so you can feel good about your purchase.
blackboard
You can never go wrong with a classic black bodysuit.
Rassi likes this minimal swimsuit Because it is stretchy yet sculpted. Like all Hunza G suits, the swimwear is one-size-fits-all thanks Brand signature “Form-pleasing texture drapes to sculpt and support all shapes.” The scoop neck silhouette offers just a hint of leather up front but the plunging back makes the suit a sexy and unexpected option. Just keep in mind: This knit suit must be hand washed.
Old Navy
That’s right – 13 bucks! Who said cute swimsuits have to cost an arm and a leg?
This is another one of my picks High waisted bikini from Old Navy. While each piece is sold separately, you can buy everything for next to nothing. The bottom is high waisted It features a high elastic waistband and leg openings that won’t dig into your legs while on the go top headband Provides extra coverage in the chest area. The bikini stretch material is not only soft and comfortable against your skin but also dries quickly and has UV protection.
Bloomingdale’s
Not only is this Onia swimsuit underwired for extra bust support, but it also features adjustable straps, providing ample closeness in the back. The textured fabric adds dimension, while contrasting white stitching gives the simple suit a high-fashion feel. Plus, as El Rassi told us, “If you’re looking for an instant slimming and contouring effect, always go for black!”
Miracle suit
Mirclesuit has been dealing with flattering swimwear for decades, so it only makes sense that this one should be Nice choice At the top of Katz’s list. “The miracle bodysuit is a super charged one-piece with sexy sheer detailing and a texture that makes you feel complete,” he said. The stunning mesh cutouts are contoured with the classic wrap and slit to hide any imperfections. Its deep scoop back shows some skin, while thick straps help keep everything in place while you’re on the go.
kopshi
“The built-in bra cups and tie detail create a flattering slimming illusion, and the price is right,” Katz said of this. Cupshe’s top rated option. A bow knot at the waist helps create an hourglass figure, while a color-blocked design gives it a playful flair. “Honestly, the most comfortable swimsuit I’ve ever worn!” One shopper raves. “Compliment, and I love the color. I’m 5’5″, 145 lbs and I got the big size. I have a longer torso, and this suit fit perfectly. I will definitely order more! Also, I’m in my 60s, so this suit is a go-to for everyone.”
the mom
We can’t get over how adorable this reversible bodysuit is!
“This is another great one-piece with a front zipper detail,” Katz said. It follows a watersports/watersports vibe and is reversible so you get two suits in one! He. She It also matches with the glamorous details in the fabric.” Despite the high-neck silhouette, the front zipper allows you to decide how much skin you want to show. The back features adjustable criss-cross straps, so you’re sure to find a fit.
skimming
All-in-one size and available in tons of colors, this Skims suit is an all-around winner.
Blogger Dana shared her love for Skims swimsuits Because of its ability to sculpt and classic designs. This one is available in XXS to 4XL and comes in many colors. You can opt for classic black, gray, or nude shades or go for a pop with pretty pastels or bold neons. Looking for some extra coverage? Layer on this match swimming top wow swim skirt.
Oops
This elegant swimsuit will make you feel like you are in a tropical paradise.
Kats likes this one piece From the new swimwear brand Oopscool because of its strong print. “You’re sure to make a fashion statement at your next pool party,” he said. The square neck design is so chic, you can easily take the suit from the beach to the bar with the right accessories. Katz suggests getting the matching shell for a streamlined look that offers extra coverage.
summersalt
Stand out on the crowded beach in this colorful bodysuit. Get it for less than half the price with the promo code SALE25.
Dana is also a big fan of summer swimwear. this Fun color blocking option Features a soft diagonal closure, built-in cups, and adjustable straps for a flattering look. It has a full coverage back and push up bra with built in soft cups that give your bust area a nice smooth shape. “I’m a petite, skinny 63-year-old woman with a thick waist. This suit makes me look like I have figure! My husband loves it as much as I do,” exclaims one five-star reviewer.
Monday clothes
Martha Stewart made a splash wearing this stunning stunner on a cover Sports Illustrated.
Martha’s White Hot Swimsuit is designed to be slimming and flattering, thanks to a thick panel around the waist, wide straps to support large breasts, and a deep neckline that helps elongate the body. The adorable suit is made from recycled nylon and spandex from nylon yarn and scraps and can be yours in sizes from Small to 3XL (or VVV, as it’s listed on Monday Swimwear).
The revisions quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
