14 Amazing Swimsuits for Older Women, from Tankinis to Athletic Suits

Is it possible for a swimsuit to be stylish, flattering, and offer adequate coverage? The Sidestroke from Summersalt is the easy answer. This stunning one-piece features diagonal seaming to enhance the waist and an elegant, asymmetrical neckline. The brand uses its signature compressive fabric to provide comfortable support throughout the bust and the full rear coverage. You’ll also find an impressive array of colors. One thing to note is the Sidestroke tends to run small, so when in doubt, size up. Get ready to relax and enjoy the sand and surf, but don’t be surprised when compliments start raining down.

Sizes: 0-24 | Materials: Recycled polyamide, elastane | Care: Not listed

Yes, you can buy a great swimsuit without breaking the bank. Here, Zando has designed a sporty, one-piece gem with breathable, quick-drying fabric in a dizzying array of patterns, colors, and designs. (We’re swooning for anything floral this season!) Each bathing suit has a wire-free padded shelf bra, wide shoulder straps, and a criss-cross design on the back. Whether wearing this for a water aerobics class, logging laps at your local pool, or hanging at the beach, you’re sure to love this wallet-friendly find.

Sizes: 2-16 | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Care: Not listed

The Cocoship Retro Bikini is the perfect solution for older women who prefer the stylish look of a two-piece suit but want more support than a conventional bikini. The high-waisted, ruched bottom conceals tummies, stretch marks, and cesarean scars while offering full rear coverage. And the adjustable halter top features tie straps at the neck and back and a flirty bow at the front. Its contoured shape and plunging neckline are flattering, while the padded cups provide some support.

“This bikini set did not disappoint on the swimming front,” says product tester Sarah Vanbuskirk. “Both the top and bottom stay put and are comfortable to swim and move around in. It even stays very secure when diving off the diving board or swimming laps.”

Vanbuskirk also mentioned enjoying the versatility of this particular piece.

“While I used to prefer bikinis, one-pieces have started to catch my eye,” she reports. “This swimsuit lets me have the best of both: the tummy coverage (and the confidence that comes with it) and the fun and movement of a two-piece. I love the way it hugs my stomach and the fact that I can pull it all the way up or smoosh it down a bit if I want to expose a tad more skin. I also like how the sleekly cut top balances out the high-waisted shape of the bikini bottom. One con of this suit is that you can’t purchase the top and bottom in different sizes, which wasn’t an issue for me but could be for other shoppers.”

Sizes: S-4XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Care: Hand wash 

For those who like to make a splash (sorry, couldn’t help it), try this daring one-piece. Two identical panels of lattice detailing catch eyes and show off just enough along the hips while the PowerMesh tummy control lining lends support in the midsection. The bust is also supported by a hidden underwire bra with soft, removable cups. Other highlights include self-tie halter straps so you can dial in the right fit and full bum coverage. One thing to keep in mind is some reviews mention a chest-flattening effect with this suit.

Sizes: 4-24 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand wash with mild soap

A swim dress is the most flattering option for those who prefer a little more material. The Cocopear Elegant Crossover Swimdress is made from a blended nylon/elastane fabric and has an excellent, stylish cut. Molded, underwired cups accentuate your bust, while wrap detailing on the dress’s empire line helps to define your waist. The material flares slightly over your stomach and hips to avoid clinging.

The straps are wide and cross in the back. Underneath the skirt, built-in boy shorts help prevent any wardrobe malfunctions. Choose from a range of floral, polka dot, and solid color designs in shades like teal and maroon.

“I was concerned about how practical a swim dress would be for an enthusiastic swimmer like me, but despite my concerns, this swim dress didn’t hold me back or bog me down in any way,” says Vanbuskirk. “Actually, I really liked the way my body felt supported with just the right amount of spandex. It gives easily but also sucks in a touch just where you want it to and bounces back when you move.”

Vanbuskirk says that the biggest surprise about the swim dress was how much she liked how it looked.

“I feared I would feel like I was wearing something that would scream ‘mom’ or even ‘grandma’ swimwear, but instead, it feels pretty—festive even. The halter-style design of the top is very attractive. My 16-year-old daughter even remarked, ‘Cool dress—where did you get it?’ The design says ‘summer sundress,’ and the flowy, short skirt gives it a sexy, beachy feel. Overall, this swimsuit offers a chic, functional look, excellent comfort, and many colors and pattern options.”

Sizes: S-5XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Care: Hand wash 

This elegant swimsuit comes in onyx, sapphire blue, and emerald (85 percent recycled polyamide and 15 percent elastane) and black, white, mod mauve, blue steel, and LUX print (80 percent nylon and 20 percent spandex). The suit works great oceanfront, poolside, or paired with jeans as a bodysuit. Design-wise, we love that this swimsuit fits well for those with a larger chest, provides full seat coverage, and is double-lined and seamless. 

Sizes: XS-XXL | Materials: Recycled polyamide, elastane, nylon, spandex | Care: Not listed

Universally flattering for the win. Oh, how we love The Maya Top from this eco-luxe swimwear company that makes a fabric with ECONYL yarn, 100 percent regenerated nylon fiber from fish nets and other rescued ocean and landfill waste. Here, a ruffled off-shoulder swim bra is equal parts stylish and fun. The suit top features soft, removable cups, and you can wear the piece up toward your shoulders or pull it down for more of an off-shoulder look. Available in black and tomato, the solid print also pairs well with white or blue jeans on land. Note: Washing by hand is ideal, but you can also machine wash gently (in a mesh bag) on cold. Do not use bleach. Remove excess moisture, and lay flat to dry.

Sizes: S-XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Care: Hand wash

Finally, here’s a swimsuit bottom that we want to own in multiple hues. (It’s available in tomato, carnation, olive, and black, so go ahead and purchase a few.) This moderate-coverage bottom is versatile enough to pair with many swimsuit styles and colors and features higher-waist styling for extra coverage. It also has a great leg cut—not too high up or far down—that even the pickiest swimsuit shoppers will surely adore. See care instructions for The Maya Top above.

Sizes: S-XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Care: Hand wash

A trusted and established name in swimwear, there’s no overlooking Speedo. And if your poolside sessions and beach outings often include some fitness laps, the Super Proback is an excellent option. First of all, it stays put through the most energetic workouts thanks to a snug fit designed to reduce drag in the water. Speedo included its highly popular back configuration with wide straps that meet in the center for incredible comfort, support, and less twisting and bunching. This is a fully lined suit constructed of sleek ProLT fabric boasting reliable shape retention that moves with your body.

Sizes: 26-38 | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Care: Not listed

Ladies love their board shorts, too. These lightweight shorts come in black, a floral pattern, blue, and an orange-and-blue wavy design, and they are supremely comfy both in and out of the water. With two-way mechanical stretch and a water-repellent finish, these shorts also dry quickly when you exit the water. Bonus: The specifically designed seaming should help prevent chafing. What more could you want from a pair of shorts that take you from a park picnic to a lake dip? We also love that these shorts contain recycled materials and Fair Trade-certified sewing.

Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Recycled polyester | Care: Not listed

Choose from a host of colors and patterns when selecting this tankini top that provides stellar specs like underwire molded cups, adjustable straps, and a visually attractive cross-back design. Lined in the front with tummy control mesh fabric, pair this top with a bikini bottom or swim skirt from the Hilor store to ensure that they match. This tankini top looks great. It is breathable and budget-friendly, and it stays in place, so we’re ready to buy it in many shades of the rainbow.

Sizes: 8-18 | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand wash

This classic one-piece suit from L.L.Bean may be understated, but it’s also functional and always in style. Constructed with Lycra Xtra Life, you can count on the right balance of stretch and support, a quick drying time, and breathability. The fit sits close to the body without being restrictive, so you can feel confident and comfortable all day long. We like that it offers plenty of coverage while still being sporty enough for an active day at the beach or pool.

Sizes: 18W-26W | Materials: Nylon, Lycra Xtra Life, polyester, spandex | Care: Hand wash

Fully lined? Check. Oh-so-flattering tummy control? You betcha. Plus, this suit features an adjustable, high-neck halter that we adore and has gotten accolades from countless publications. We also appreciate that this swimsuit ties on the side for an added style element and that the brand’s best-selling suit gives plenty of coverage and contouring. FYI: This suit features UPF 50 protection and has a built-in shelf bra and cups.

Sizes: 2-14 | Material: Polyester, Lycra, polyamide, elastane | Care: Hand wash