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The best bathing suits for women are supportive, comfortable, and flattering. It's also one piece of clothing that finds its way onto almost any packing list, whether that be for a dip in the hotel pool, the ocean, or an Airbnb's cozy hot tub. As essential as a good bathing suit is for travelers, finding one we feel confident in can feel like somewhat of a daunting task. With this in mind, we did the legwork for you—scouring the sites of brands we trust like Andie Swim, Left on Friday, and Solid & Striped to discover the very best options to wear on your next beach vacation. From high-waisted sets and one-piece swimsuits to classic high-cut bikinis, there's a style for every taste and body type on our list. Below, the best women's bathing suits to wear this season, whether you'll be by the beach in Montauk or cruising through the Mediterranean.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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Classic two-piece bathing suits
A classic black bikini will never go out of style. Andie Swim's Santorini top and Skims' triangle top are two of my most-worn swimwear pieces. The fabric on both suits is buttery soft, doesn't dig into my skin, and has held up well after countless trips and washes. These pieces can be worn with the brands' mid-rise bikini bottoms or paired with other higher or lower cuts. For women looking for some extra support up top, Abercrombie's Curve Love bikini tops are designed for cup sizes D-F. This means plenty of coverage and fabric in all the right places, so you can be as active as you want in the water without worrying about any discomfort.
If you prefer prints and patterns over solid-colored bathing suits, Farm Rio and Billabong have you covered. And for a flattering color-blocking set, turn to Summersalt. With adjustable straps and built-in soft cups for extra coverage, the Marini bikini top is just as comfy as it is chic.
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High-waisted bathing suits
High-waisted bathing suits are one of our go-to styles for active summer trips and leisurely beach days alike. Left on Friday makes some of our favorite suits for swimming and surfing—and we especially appreciate the ultra-high rise bottom that comes up past your belly button, offering plenty of coverage. Styles like the Hi Hi bottom and Hi Tide bottom dry quickly and are snag-resistant. Mix and match any of these high-waisted bottoms with a variety of tops, from bandeau and scoop bras to styles specifically designed for women with bigger chests. The brand's bathing suit tops and bottoms are available in over a dozen fun, bright colors, from neon pink and purple to more subtle shades like periwinkle.
For maximum coverage, consider the crossover bikini bottom from Aerie. The cut of this set looks great on any body type. Bonus: All of Aerie's swimsuits offer UPF 50 sun protection and won't break the bank. If you're trying to avoid tan lines after a long day in the sun, opt for Montce's bandeau top and high-waisted bottoms. These bottoms hit at the belly button for a little extra coverage, and the crochet material offers a more unique look.
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One-piece swimsuits
A sleek one-piece suit is ultra-flattering and always in style. Whether you're heading on a family trip or have a more active beach day planned, a one-piece is equal parts practical and stylish. More reasons we love a good one-piece: they're comfortable, packable, and wearable throughout the day—toss on any cover-up skirt or pant and you're ready for lunch at the resort.
If you're looking for something simple, versatile, and that you'll have for years to come, choose one of these chic one-pieces from Solid & Striped, a favorite bathing suit brand of our editors. If comfort and coverage are your top priorities, you can't go wrong with a suit from Summersalt—especially The Sidestroke. This style is one of the brand's bestsellers and it's no secret why. Its compressive material offers more support than one-shoulder suits typically can and its color blocking makes it look great on everyone. Bonus: These suits are available in a long torso version, allowing you to pick the best fit possible for your body type. And if you're looking for something a little bit more fun, say for a bachelorette party or European vacation, these options with sexy cut-out details below from Billabong and Monday Swimwear fit the bill.
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Cover-ups for women
Whenever I'm headed on a tropical vacation or a beach day down the shore, I always pack a lightweight cover-up in my tote bag. A packable sarong or skirt takes up little-to-no suitcase space and makes it easy to grab a quick lunch or drink at the hotel without needing to do a full outfit change. For something more versatile, pack a white button-down like this linen-cotton option from J.Crew. It's a staple in every traveler's wardrobe and looks chic over any swimsuit.
