The best swimsuit brands for women offer a variety of high-quality styles and different coverage levels to suit every figure. After carefully evaluating over 30 top options, our pick for best swimwear brand is Summersalt, which offers dozens of one-pieces, bikinis and tankinis in a rainbow of hues—all made from the brand’s signature compressive fabric. Below, you’ll find the details on why we crowned Summersalt our favorite swim brand, plus 11 additional recommendations for a variety of different needs, from the best plus-size swimsuit brand to the best affordable options. (Besides those 12 recommendations, we’ve got eight more editor favorites listed at the bottom of this article—after all, swimwear shopping is such a highly personal pursuit.)
To narrow down the options, we focused on swimsuit brands that offer inclusive size ranges and specific styles that cater to certain body types, including large and small busts, long torsos and plus sizes. We also tapped 13 members of our editorial team for their recommendations based on personal testing. All selections were reviewed and approved by Forbes Vetted’s in-house style expert, deputy editor Kari Molvar.
- Best Swimsuit Brand Overall: Summersalt
- Best One-Piece Swimsuit Brand: Quince
- Best Bikini Brand: Andie
- Best Tummy-Control Swimsuit Brand: Stylest
- Best Swimsuit Brand For Curvy Women: Skims
- Best Active Swimsuit Brand: Athleta
- Best Luxury Swimsuit Brand: Faithfull The Brand
- Best Affordable Swimsuit Brand: Aerie
- Best Swimsuit Brand On Amazon: Cupshe
- Best Plus-Size Swimsuit Brand: Madewell
- Best Swimsuit Brand For Small Busts: J.Crew
- Best Swimsuit Brand For Large Busts: TA3
Best Swimsuit Brand Overall
Summersalt: Silhouettes That Flatter Every Figure
Summersalt The Sidestroke
Sizes:0 to 24, Long 2 to 24 |Price range:$45 to $135 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 21 days of delivery date with $8 fee
Pros:
- Swimsuits are made with recycled materials
- Fabric offers UPF 50 sun protection
- Wide range of sizes, including long torso sizes
Cons:
- No low-coverage styles
Summersalt is our top choice overall, based on its variety of flattering styles, unique color options and high-quality materials. When designing its signature swimsuits (like the best-selling Sidestroke, an asymmetrical one-piece style), the brand collected 1.5 million measurements from 10,000 women to ensure an impeccable fit. And during testing we found that the swimwear does really hug your body and hold everything in. “These suits stay put all day, even while wrangling my two young boys at the beach and pool,” says Forbes Vetted senior branded content editor Victoria Hess. Additional testers have noted that the fabric feels great against their skin, plus the flat seams don’t dig in or cause any discomfort.
The pieces are also made with sustainability in mind—Summersalt’s compressive, UPF 50 fabric is a recycled polyamide-elastane blend. If you need help picking a style, our team especially likes the Sidestroke; the Marina, a color-blocked one-piece; and the High Leg Mid Rise Bikini Bottom with whatever top best suits your bust size and activity level. The one drawback for Summersalt is that the brand doesn't offer any low-coverage styles. If this is something you're in the market for, check out Skims and Aerie, which both provide skimpier options at a similar price range.
Best One-Piece Swimsuit Brand
Quince: Elevated Basics That Won't Break The Bank
Sizes:XS to XL |Price range:$25 to $50 |Return policy:Free returns within 365 days
Pros:
- Reasonable pricing
- Generous return policy
- Free shipping
Cons:
- No plus sizes available
- Limited color options
Quince is the epitome of attainable luxury; the brand is known for high-quality-yet-affordable essentials like its $50 cashmere sweater and under-$100 washable silk dresses. It’s not surprising that Quince excels at swimwear, too. There’s something for everyone among the curated collection of sophisticated silhouettes, including seven one-piece styles that we found to be standouts. Compared with other brands like Summersalt and Andie, Quince’s swimwear stands out for being reasonably priced; its Italian One-Shoulder One-Piece is roughly half the price of Summersalt’s similar Sidestroke style.
Forbes Vetted updates writerFrancesca Sales specifically recommends the Italian Wrap One-Piece Swimsuit, noting, “The plunge neckline and lightly lined cups actually accentuates my very small chest in an attractive way.” The swimsuits are made with a recycled polyamide that offers light compression and UPF 50 sun protection.
Best Bikini Swimsuit Brand
Andie: Sleek, Chic Separates
Sizes:XS to 3XL; Long XS to 3XL |Price range:$52 to $148 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 15 days of delivery with $5 fee
Pros:
- Personalized style quiz
- Complimentary rewards program
- Separates are easy to mix and match
Cons:
- Popular colors sell out quickly
Andie has been making waves in the swimwear industry as of late, building a cult following around its ultra-comfortable suits. In particular, its bikini tops and bottoms stood out to us—we named it the best overall pick in our roundup of bikini brands. There’s a wide range of options (over 120 in total), so whether you prefer low, medium or full coverage, there’s likely a swimsuit you’ll love. The high-quality separates are also easy to mix and match, so you can customize your set based on your needs. “I own multiple swimsuits from Andie and I can’t say enough good things about the brand,” says Forbes Vetted lifestyle commerce editorKatherine Louie. “My swimsuits have survived multiple summers of swimming, surf lessons and other beach activities.”
If you need help finding your dream suit, Andie’s site offers a convenient style quiz to make the process simple. The brand also offers a complimentary rewards program, Club Andie, which earns you free shipping and a gift on your birthday. Andie’s swimwear can be a bit of an investment, as full-priced separates start at $52 each. If you’re looking for similar on-trend styles at a fraction of the price, try Aerie—although it’s worth noting these styles aren’t likely to hold up to wear as well as an Andie swimsuit.
Best Tummy-Control Swimsuit Brand
Stylest: Curve-Enhancing Suits
Sizes:XS to 2XL |Price range:$68 to $278 |Return policy:Free returns within 14 days of purchase
Pros:
- Swimsuits are compressive and sculpting
- Personalized style quiz
- Automated chat support
Cons:
- Limited bikini selection
- Expensive
Stylest’s best-selling Dreamsculpt Square Neck Swimsuit earned the top spot on our list of the best tummy-control swimsuits, and the brand’s other swimwear offerings earn high marks for compression, too. The UPF 50 polyamide fabric smooths, sculpts and slims without feeling too constricting. It’s also designed to stand up to salt and chlorine, so you can rest assured your swimsuit will last you a while.
Molvar has tested multiple pieces from the brand and finds the fabric quality superior. “It’s thick, but not too thick, and provides comfortable compression and subtle contouring,” she says. “I’ve had other family members try these suits, too, and everyone ends up being a fan.”
While a Stylest one-piece will run you more than a similar style from Skims, Stylest’s fabric offers more flexibility and compression, thanks to its higher elastane content. If you’re unsure about which swimsuit to choose, Stylest also has an online style quiz and automated chat support to help you find the right style for your body.
Best Swimsuit Brand For Curvy Women
Skims: Body-Hugging Fits
Sizes:XXS to 4X |Price range:$36 to $98 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 30 days with $6 fee
Pros:
- Innovative silhouettes
- Size-inclusive
- Complimentary rewards program
Cons:
- Most color options are limited edition
- Limited full-coverage styles
Founded in 2019 by Kim Kardashian and Emma Grede, Skims has become famous for its size-inclusive shapewear and loungewear. The brand has since ventured into swimsuit territory, carrying the same ethos behind its best-selling bodysuits and tanks. “Skims has become my new go-to brand for swimsuits—I own theScoop Neck One-PieceandSignature Swim Triangle Top, both of which have a high-quality feel and classic look,” says Forbes Vetted senior home and kitchen editorAmanda Arnold.
We love that the site allows you to view each style on models of different sizes, so you can get a better idea of how the swimsuit fits a curvier frame. One thing to note: Arnold mentions that the styles are somewhat revealing and tend to run small, so if you're looking for more coverage, consider checking out Summersalt, Land’s End or Époque Évolution.
Best Active Swimsuit Brand
Athleta: Supportive Pieces You Can Move In
Sizes:XXS to XL |Price range:$49 to $119 |Return policy:Free returns within 60 days of delivery date
Pros:
- Supportive styles
- Swimsuits are made with recycled materials
- Fabric offers UPF 40+ protection
Cons:
- Popular styles sell out quickly
Activewear giant Athleta may be best known for its sports bras and leggings, but its swimwear line isn’t to be missed. Its tops, bottoms and one-pieces are made from UPF 40+ recycled nylon blended with Lycra Xtra Life, which increases the swimsuits’ longevity. “I own three pieces from Athleta’s collection and the quality is top notch,” says home and kitchen editor Sholeen Damarwala. “The material is thick, washes incredibly well without pilling and most importantly, provides plenty of coverage.” Athleta’s swimsuits are great for active beach days, and their built-in support makes them ideal for water sports like surfing and paddle boarding.
Due to their popularity, some of Athleta’s styles sell out quickly. If the swimsuit you had your eye on is out of stock, we recommend Andie, which offers similarly supportive styles.
Best Luxury Swimsuit Brand
Faithfull The Brand: Sustainably Made And Long-Lasting
Sizes:XS to XXL |Price range:$89 to $199 |Return policy:Returns within 21 days of purchase date, customer pays return shipping
Pros:
- Minimalist, sophisticated styles
- Swimsuits are sustainably made
Cons:
- Expensive
While Faithfull The Brand’s pieces come with a lofty price tag, you get what you pay for in terms of quality. The high-end clothing brand’s swim collection is thoughtfully designed and sustainably made, with plenty of options to suit every taste.
“Like the colorful, retro dresses I own by the brand, I get so many compliments every time I wear my Faithfull The Brand swimsuit,” says Forbes Vetted executive director Cory Baldwin. “It's made from high-quality material and the bright colors haven't faded even after a lot of time in the sun, plus I appreciate its unique and flattering design details.” You can count on wearing these suits year after year—factor that into the cost per wear, and the price becomes much more reasonable.
While several popular swimwear brands, including Summersalt and Andie, promote sustainability through the use of recycled materials, it’s worth noting that Faithfull The Brand is one of the only Certified B Corporations on our list—meaning the brand meets high standards of accountability and transparency throughout the supply chain process.
Best Affordable Swimsuit Brand
Aerie: Wallet-Friendly, On-Trend Styles
Sizes:XXS to XXL; Long S to XXL |Price range:$20 to $63 |Return policy:Returns accepted with a $5 shipping fee
Pros:
- Site frequently runs sales on popular styles
- Fun, vibrant color options
Cons:
- Popular styles sell out quickly
If you’re someone who likes to scoop up the latest swimsuit trends, we recommend Aerie’s ever-evolving lineup of affordable options. The clothing brand—whose parent company is American Eagle—is a one-stop shop for wallet-friendly activewear, intimates and swimwear. We’re impressed by the selection of stylish one-pieces, many of which are under $30; meanwhile, bikini separates run as low as $10. Several of Aerie’s swimsuits are available in long torso options; Cupshe, which offers swimsuits in a price range similar to Aerie, doesn’t have the same size diversity.
“They're by far the most comfortable and flattering swimsuits I own,” says Forbes Vetted updates writerAlexandra Garrett. The material is buttery soft, and the colors are so fun and unique.” Just keep in mind that the fabric content varies depending on the style you choose, which means some swimsuits are prone to stretching out faster than others.
Best Swimsuit Brand On Amazon
Cupshe: Fun, Fresh Styles At Surprisingly Low Prices
Sizes:XXS to XXL |Price range:$29 to $38 |Return policy:Free returns within 30 days of shipping date through Amazon
Pros:
- Wide color variety
- Affordable pricing
- Hassle-free return process
Cons:
- Some customers say sizing runs small
There are quite a few swimsuit brands on Amazon, but Cupshe was the clear winner based on customer reviews and editor feedback. “My hopes honestly weren't too high when purchasing a swimsuit from Cupshe given the price, but I was blown away,” says Forbes Vetted executive strategy editorLindsay Boyers, who owns the brand’s V-Neck One-Piece, a popular pick that comes in 33 colors and patterns. “The material feels in line with higher-end swimsuits and the cut is so flattering.”
Many of Cupshe’s suits have stellar ratings on Amazon—the style featured above holds an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on feedback from over 29,500 customers. Plus, Cupshe’s swimsuits are eligible for free shipping when purchased through Amazon—even if you’re not an Amazon Prime member. Similarly priced swimsuits from Aerie come with a $7.95 shipping fee, unless you spend $75.
Best Plus-Size Swimsuit Brand
Madewell: Minimalist With An Inclusive Size Range
Sizes:XXS to XXL; 1X to 4X |Price range:$45 to $98 |Return policy: Returns within 30 days of purchase with $7.50 shipping fee
Pros:
- Simple, sophisticated styles
- Swimsuits made with recycled materials
- Complimentary rewards program
Cons:
- Limited color options
Fashion brand Madewell falls under the J.Crew Group umbrella—we consider it to be J.Crew’s cooler, younger sister. The brand has gained a significant fanbase around its denim and basic tees, but its swimwear shouldn’t be ignored. We love the emphasis on modern, understated styles that go up to 4X. While some plus-size swimwear options can end up looking frumpy, Madewell sets itself apart from the pack with clean, sophisticated silhouettes, which is why it’s our top pick.
“I’ve had great experiences with Madewell’s swimwear,” says Epting, who has owned a one-piece and bikini from the retailer over the years. “Like the brand’s clothing, the pieces are well-constructed and timeless.” One of Madewell’s biggest perks is its Insider rewards program, which is free to join. Signing up makes you eligible for complimentary shipping and returns, as well as a reward during your birthday month. The only downside is that Madewell’s swimsuits are only available in a limited selection of colors. If you’re looking for a variety of bright hues in extended sizing, check out TA3.
Best Swimsuit Brand For Small Busts
J.Crew: Classy, Colorful Designs
Sizes:XXS to 3X; 0 to 24; Long 0 to 16 |Price range:$50 to $275 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 30 days of purchase with $7.50 fee
Pros:
- Wide variety of solids and prints
- Complimentary rewards program
Cons:
- Long torso options sell out quickly
J.Crew has long been known for its preppy-chic staples, and this reputation extends to its impressive swimwear lineup. There are over 60 one-piece options and over 100 bikini tops and bottoms combined, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
This brand is our top pick for small busts, since it offers several triangle-shaped and bandeau bikini tops, starting in a size XXS. Many suits come in a wide palette of rich solid shades or vibrant patterns, so you can really make a statement with your swimwear. We recommend signing up for the brand’s complimentary rewards program, J.Crew Passport, which comes with perks like free standard shipping and free monogramming on select items.
Deputy editor Jane Sung owns three J.Crew swimsuits, including a one-piece that’s in “excellent shape” after several years. “I recently bought a couple bikinis for a trip to Hawaii, and they stood up to the waves and plenty of swimming while also feeling very comfortable,” she says. One thing to keep in mind: The brand’s long-torso swimsuits tend to sell out quickly—if you can’t snag the style you want, Summersalt offers long-torso options that are consistently in stock.
Best Swimsuit Brand For Large Busts
TA3: Innovative Lace-Up Swimwear
Sizes:XXS to 4X; A to G |Price range:$68 to $198 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 30 days of shipping date with $7 fee
Pros:
- Online fit finder tool
- Short, regular and extra-long options available
- Bikini tops come in bra sizing
Cons:
- Two-piece options are limited
TA3’s swimsuits are utterly unique—they feature an adjustable lacing system in the back, similar to a corset. This allows the brand’s compressive material to hug your curves, flatten your stomach and lift your bust. We particularly love how the brand offers its one-pieces in three lengths, and how its swim tops come in bra cup sizing for a fine-tuned fit. Its one-pieces are designed with built-in shelf bras, offering support for busts up to a size H.
“They are a splurge, but the suits are super thick, well made and cinch your waist like nothing I've ever tried before,” says Dory Zayas, Forbes Vetted contributor. “The shoulder straps are adjustable and the compression fabric just makes my whole body feel secure and supported.” If you need help finding your ideal size, the site has a “Find My Size” tool that allows you to enter your measurements and body type.
While the brand offers plenty of one-piece options, it’s a bit lacking in the bikini department; if you’re looking for a specific style that TA3 doesn’t have, try perusing Swimsuits For All’s options for large busts.
MORE FROMFORBES VETTED
Editor’s Picks: Other Swimsuit Brands To Consider
Swimwear shopping is highly personal, which is why we’ve included eight additional options that our team considers to be both stylish and high quality. While none of these brands won out as “best” for a specific use case during our testing, you’ll still find them in our personal rotations. We think they deserve consideration based on their swimsuits’ superb qualities.
Land's End: Durable, Modest Swimsuits
Sizes:4 to 18; W 16 to 26 |Price range:$20 to $125 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 90 days of purchase with $7 fee
Pros:
- Fabric is made with Lycra Xtra Life
- Wide variety of swim dresses and tanks
Cons:
- Styles aren’t ideal for smaller busts
Land’s End’s modest swimsuit styles are great for those who prefer to cover up when they’re out in the sun. “I own the Land's EndCarmela swimsuitin Black, as I prefer more coverage—I don't tan, I burn,” saysRebecca Isaacs, Forbes Vetted consumer tech and electronics editor. “When I traveled to South Beach for a week last year, this swimsuit felt comfortable to wear for hours at the beach.” The brand’s swimwear is made of durable nylon blended with Lycra Xtra Life, so you can count on each piece to last multiple seasons, even with frequent use.
Époque Évolution: Customizable Coverage
Sizes:XS to XL |Price range:$68 to $158 |Return policy:Free returns within 30 days of delivery date
Pros:
- Full-coverage designs
- Swimsuits made with recycled, UPF 50+ fabric
- Swim tops and one-pieces double as loungewear
Cons:
- Limited colors available
Northern California-based fashion brand Époque Évolution specializes in luxury basics made of eco-conscious fabrics. While its swimwear collection is more limited, it stands out thanks to the pieces’ ultra-simple yet versatile designs. The One Two Crop Top can be worn either as a V-neck or a boatneck bikini top, while the bottoms featured above are designed with a foldable waistband for both high-rise and low-rise looks.
“As someone who prefers full coverage in a swimsuit, I find the Époque Évolution bikini bottoms and crop top to be a dream,” says Epting. “While the material is on the thinner side, it’s incredibly soft and hugs my body.” If you plan on putting these in the washing machine, she notes to be careful to wash each garment inside out to avoid pilling.
Swimsuits For All: Hundreds Of Options For Every Body Type
Sizes:4 to 34; 36DD to 46G |Price range:$40 to $174 |Return policy:Returns within 60 days of shipping date with $10 fee
Pros:
- Ability to shop by body type
- Several styles have bra sizing
- Pieces sold as sets or separately
Cons:
- Number of options can be overwhelming
Swimsuits For All offers bikinis, tankinis, swim dresses, one-pieces and more, running up to a size 34 in select styles. Beyond this sheer size inclusivity, the brand also stands out in terms of variety—there are nearly 100 one-piece options and over 300 bikini separates and sets. Some of the brand’s tops follow bra sizing, making it easy to guarantee a perfect fit before ordering. The amount of swimsuits can be a bit overwhelming, so we recommend using one of the site’s many filters (including body type, preferred color and size) to narrow things down.
Carve Designs: Eco-Friendly, Versatile Styles
Sizes:XS to XL |Price range:$50 to $168 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 30 days of purchase with a $7 fee
Pros:
- Swimsuits are made with recycled materials
- Personalized style quiz
- Some styles are reversible
Cons:
- Reviewers say sizing differs from style to style
Carve Designs is known for its eco-friendly swimsuits; its fabric consists of recycled water bottles and discarded coconut husks. In addition to the sustainability aspect, we love how several of the brand’s bottoms are reversible—it’s like getting two pieces in one.
“I bought Carve’s Elba top and high-waisted Erin reversible bottom a local surf shop a few years ago, and it’s still my favorite bikini,” says Baldwin. “Both pieces are super flattering and keep everything in place.” With over 50 one-pieces and over 100 tops and bottoms, narrowing down your options can be tricky, which is why the brand launched a short style quiz to help get you started.
Cosabella: Luxury Separates In Curvy Sizes
Sizes:XS to XL; Curvy XS to XL |Price range:$69 to $235 |Return policy:Free returns within 30 days of delivery date
Pros:
- Sizing corresponds with bra cup sizes
- Ultra-supportive designs
Cons:
- Color selection is limited
Cosabella specializes in luxury lingerie, so the brand is no stranger to form-fitting garments. “I like how Cosabella offers swimwear in sizes that correspond to bra cup sizes, which takes the guesswork out of knowing if a particular top is going to fit you,” says Molvar. “Also, the styles are supportive without being matronly.” We particularly love the Vita Marina Halter Bikini Top, which comes in Regular and Curvy sizing.
Boden: Cool Patterns And Timeless Styles
Sizes:2 to 18; Long 4 to 22 |Price range:$45 to $150 |Return policy:Free returns within 45 days of shipping date, with hygienic liners intact
Pros:
- Wide selection of unique prints
- Swimsuits are made with recycled materials
- Many styles are machine washable
Cons:
- Not many options for large busts
As a clothing brand, Boden embodies an effortlessly chic aesthetic. “Boden has recently caught my eye with modern, cool basics,” says Molvar. Its best-selling Arezzo top is designed with lightly padded cups that lift and accentuate a small chest while still looking natural. Another highlight: Boden specializes in unique prints and patterns, which Molvar describes as “fun without being too bold.” You can also try on Boden’s swimsuit tops risk-free, since the brand offers free returns within 45 days of the shipping date.
Good American: Modern Styles That Fit Like A Glove
Good American Whip Stitch Compression Swimsuit
Sizes:00 to 24, XS to 5XL |Price range:$49 to $159 |Return policy:Returns accepted within 21 days of shipping date with $3 to $7 fee; free returns through Nordstrom
Pros:
- Online fit models range from size 0 to size 16
- Compressive options for tummy control
- Always Fits collection stretches up and down in size
Cons:
- Some customers say bright swimsuit colors fade quickly
Those who are already familiar with Good American’s body-hugging denim will appreciate the same level of detail the brand puts into its swimwear. Its Always Fits collection is particularly notable; tops and bottoms are designed to stretch up and down a size, ensuring a snug fit. The Whip Stitch Compression line is another highlight—pieces are made from a smoothing scuba fabric with an edgy metal eyelet trim.
Spanx: Smoothing Support
Spanx Pique Shaping Hi-Rise Swim Bottom
Sizes:XS to 3XL |Price range:$58 to $198 |Return policy:Returns accepted with a $5 shipping fee within 60 days of purchase
Pros:
- Swimsuits have a shaping, smoothing effect
- One-pieces can double as bodysuits
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Some reviewers say sizing runs small
Spanx is first and foremost known for its shapewear, so naturally, the brand’s swimwear is incredibly smoothing. “I've worn Spanx items before and the construction of their pieces is top-notch,” says Molvar. “The swimwear has the same sculpting effect as their pants and bodysuits, which is great.” What’s more, Spanx’s one-pieces offer enough coverage to be worn as tops with a pair of jeans or shorts. It’s worth noting that dozens of customer reviews say that certain styles run small, so consider sizing up.
Why You Can Trust Forbes Vetted Swimsuit Advice
The Forbes Vetted fashion team has extensively researched, written and published numerous swimwear-focused stories as part of our practical fashion shopping advice. We always consider the needs of real consumers, and prioritize brands we know and trust because we’ve tested their wares ourselves.
About The Author
- The author of this story, Claire Epting, has over four years experience covering fashion and lifestyle, including swimsuits. During that time, she has formally tested 10 swimwear brands and has gained an understanding of what makes a high-quality bathing suit.
- As a native Californian who lives in Long Beach, Epting considers beachwear a part of her lifestyle and has tried countless swim brands through the years. She spoke to several women about their personal experiences wearing bathing suits to report this story, and consulted with eight Forbes Vetted team members to learn which swimsuit brands they love and recommend.
About Our Editing and Reviewing Process
- The publication of this article was overseen by deputy editor Kari Molvar, who has over 20 years experience covering women’s and men’s fashion. Molvar reviewed this story for accuracy, flow of information and adherence to our style guide as well as Forbes Vetted editorial policies.
- Additionally, Molvar provided expert commentary on four of the brands featured above, identifying what she appreciates about each based on her firsthand experience and industry knowledge.
- We stay on top of fashion and swimwear trends and update our shopping guides to make sure we always bring you the most current advice. As part of our updates team, Epting will assess new swimwear brands as we become aware of them and remove advice around styles that are no longer available from our favorite brands.
How We Chose The Best Swimsuit Brands
When evaluating the best swimsuit brands, we considered several important factors including style variety, size inclusivity, color options and fabric quality.
- We took Forbes Vetted staff recommendations into account; our editors and writers have tested swimsuits from all 12 of our winning brands featured above, including Summersalt, Quince and Andie.
- We understand that everyone’s swimwear budget looks different, so we included affordable brands that offer pieces for under $30 as well as luxury brands whose swimsuits fall in the over-$100 range.
- Each brand’s overall purchasing experience was taken into account as well. We noted which companies offer free returns, complimentary rewards programs and online style quizzes to make shopping easier.
- We made sure to include brands that offer swimsuits tailored to specific body types. We’ve featured options for long torsos, large busts, small busts, plus sizes and curvy women.
How Much Should A Good Swimsuit Cost?
The cost of a one-piece or bikini set can range from $20 to $200—swimsuits on the lower end of that price range tend to last for a season or two, while more expensive suits can last you for years. A swimsuit made of high-quality swim fabric typically costs around $100, but it’s possible to find one for less than that, like the Quince Italian Cross-Back One-Piece. If you plan on wearing your swimsuit frequently, it’s worth it to spend on a more expensive suit. While it’s a larger investment up front, you can count on the swimsuit to last longer than one made with lower quality fabric.
Which Swimsuits Last The Longest?
To ensure the longevity of your swimsuit, look for a style made with high-quality materials—either polyester or nylon blended with at least 10% Lycra or elastane. Both polyester and nylon are chlorine-resistant, which will help keep your swimsuit looking fresh over time. The lifespan of a swimsuit also depends on the frequency with which you wear it—a bikini you wear once a week all summer is prone to stretching out faster than one you wear twice a year. If you want to maximize the life of your swimwear, we recommend skipping the laundry and hand-washing instead.
Should I Size Up Or Down In Swimsuits?
Ideally, you should pick your exact swimsuit size—it should feel snug, but not uncomfortable. However, if you’re in between sizes, consider sizing down if you plan on swimming and sizing up if you’re staying dry. Swimsuit fabric stretches a bit when wet, so your swimsuit will fit a little looser after you’ve jumped in the pool or swam in the ocean. Meanwhile, sizing up in a swimsuit can provide a little extra coverage, which is particularly helpful if you have a larger bust or longer torso.
