Swimwear: choose coverage and support that feel right
Swimwear is about comfort, confidence and what you’ll be doing. Begin with the coverage and support you want, then pick a style that fits your plans.
If it’s pool laps or aqua classes
Pick sport or rash styles for a close, secure feel. Streamlined cuts help you move without distraction.
Sun‑lounger to lunchtime
A bikini or tankini with a light shirt or shorts pulls on fast. Swap bottoms to dial coverage up or down.
Prefer more cover
Low‑leg cuts, fuller briefs, shorts, skirted styles or a swimdress add practical coverage. They stay put when walking to the café or chasing after the little ones.
Which style does what
Swimsuit (one‑piece):
- All‑in‑one ease
- High‑leg changes the leg line
- Low‑leg adds hip and bottom coverage
Bikini (two‑piece):
- Pair tops (triangle, bandeau or cup‑sized) with bottoms (full brief, high‑leg, shorts or skirted) to suit your coverage
Tankini (two‑piece with longer top):
- One‑piece look, separate sizing
- Popular with shorts for extra cover
Swimdress (one‑piece with a skirted look):
- Extra cover from a skirted hem, with the simplicity of a one‑piece
Sport and rash styles:
- Close fits for lane swims, aqua classes and paddleboarding
Cover‑ups:
- Lightweight shirts and shorts layer easily between pool, beach and town
What to focus on for fit and comfort
One‑piece or two‑piece: One‑pieces go on quickly and pack light. Two‑pieces let you mix sizes and swap bottoms for more or less coverage.
Leg height: High‑leg can lengthen the leg line and feel lighter. Low‑leg adds hip and bottom coverage and can feel steadier when on the move.
Top shapes and support: Triangle and bandeau feel lighter for lounging. Cup‑sized tops offer a more structured, secure fit.
Bottom shapes: Briefs are minimal. Shorts and skirted styles add practical coverage for beach games and town walks.
Purpose‑led details: Sport and rash styles suit regular swims. Some items are labelled by the brand for period use.
A few things to weigh up
Coverage vs freedom to move:
- More cover can feel reassuring
- Sleeker cuts can feel easier in the water
Tan lines vs support:
- Bandeau and triangle minimise lines
- Cup‑sized designs aim for a more secure feel
Pool to town vs pure beachwear:
- Shorts, skirted styles and cover‑ups make moving around simpler
- Minimal briefs keep things light for sun and swims
Build a simple holiday set
One swimsuit, one tankini with shorts, plus a light cover‑up covers pool to café with minimal faff. Mix and match to stretch outfits across the trip.
Care that helps pieces last
Rinse after use and follow the care label to help keep shape and colour.
Let items dry fully before storing and rotate pieces on trips to let elastic recover.
Avoid rough surfaces that can snag fabrics.