Where to Buy Plus Size Swimwear

There’s a simple one-word answer to this question: Knix! 

At Knix, we don’t differentiate between styles and sizes. All our swimsuits range from XS to XXXXL and are designed to be comfortable, flattering and provide style options to all kinds of bodies! So if you're looking for different size swimsuits, look no further.

Want to learn more about your options? Read on, or browse the swim collection here.

What to Look for in a Great Bathing Suit (No Matter What Your Size!)

It doesn’t matter what size you are; we all want similar things from our swimsuits: To feel confident and comfortable in our skin. Sometimes, we want to feel sexy or flirty. Other times, it’s all about performance; you want to be able to swim knowing everything will stay in place. 

Plus-size designs often just add extra inches everywhere, but body shapes are more complex than that. You can be plus-size but still have a small bust or a short torso. You might carry more weight on your bottom half or your top half. So it’s not just about the swimsuit going up to your size; it’s also about how it fits your body.

While one swimsuit may not offer all those things, you should be able to find one that gives you what you’re looking for. Here are some things we look for in our swimsuits.

Plus Size Bathing Suits in a Range of Styles!

There’s nothing more devastating than finding a style of clothing that you love and then realizing that it maxes out at size 12. 

While things have improved a lot in the world of plus-size bathing suits, there are lots of brands out there that throw out one or two token styles for their plus-size customers. 

But you shouldn’t feel like you have any less choice than any other shopper when shopping for the right size swimwear. So look for (and support) brands that support women of ALL sizes, with a range of options that anybody can wear, including plus size.

Popular styles you should be able to find include:

• Classic styles like one-piece swimsuits or maillots
• Different size bikinis
• High waist bikini with tummy control
• Swim shorts or full coverage swim bottoms
• so much more!

An Assortment of Colors and Patterns in Extended Sizes

A lot of brands seem to assume that plus-size women want to “disappear” and cover--up as much as possible (hello, the swim dress!), often assuming you’ll only want to wear basic black (though black is a legit choice, it shouldn’t be your only choice.) 

Body positivity is not at the fore of their designs. We believe all bodies should be celebrated (and, yes, we believe all bodies are beautiful too), so color and pattern and flirty details and sexy details are just as at home on XXXXL plus size swimwear as they are on XS swimsuits. 

Popular patterns and stylish prints this season include animal print, floral print, bold statement graphic designs, and more.

People who wear larger plus size swimwear sometimes feel more confident in neutral or dark colors. And if that’s where you’re at, by all means, make the choice that makes you feel good. However, we believe you should be loud and proud in your skin no matter what your size, so if you’re drawn to certain colors or loud patterns or cute designs, don’t let your size dictate what you should wear!

If you’re wondering what will be more flattering to your skin tone, check out this article which dives into the most flattering colors for cool and warm-toned skin. But ultimately, when it comes to color, follow your heart.

Adjustable Straps Will Help if Your Torso is Long or Short

If the straps (either neck or shoulder) of your bathing suit are adjustable, you’ll be able to better fit the swimsuit to your torso and tighten it over time as it loses some of its elasticity. This will help you feel more held in and supported, as well as be able to adjust the suit to better fit you overall.

Wider Straps Will Give You More Support

Also, look for wide straps if you need a little more bust support. String or tie straps may dig into the skin and become uncomfortable if they’re supporting a larger chest.

Molded Cups Also Offer Support

Many swimsuits now offer “secret” support with built-in wireless bras and molded cups. These are great for keeping you in place and minimizing bounce and movement while also giving you the silhouette you desire.

Remember, You Can Mix & Match Separate Bikini Sizes

One-piece swimsuits tend to assume that we all have a uniform silhouette. But sometimes, weight can be concentrated around the bust or around the tummy/booty. With two-piece sets (or bikinis) you can choose a different top and bottom and mix and match. This means you can separately think about what’s flattering and comfortable on your bottom half versus what’s supportive on your top. It also allows you to change your look with more combinations of styles and colors of pieces.

Periods, Light Bladder Leaks? Consider Leakproof Swimwear

Leakproof swimwear looks on the outside like a regular swimsuit. It comes in different styles (one-piece, bikinis, and everything in between) and colors. But it has one key difference from regular swimwear: It is designed to absorb and hold period blood as an alternative to traditional period protection, like tampons. It can also absorb urine for those who experience light bladder leaks.

How Does Leakproof Swimwear Work?

The layered fabric in the gusset of Knix leakproof swimwear traps and absorbs menstrual blood or urine, so it doesn't leak in the water (or on land!) Our Swimwear features the same Leakproof Technology as our Period Underwear with an additional thin layer of waterproof material for extra protection.

The inner layers absorb the blood and trap it, so there's no leakage when you swim. When it goes in the laundry with detergent, it releases through the top layer— leaving your swim fresh and clean for tomorrow's laps.

Forget Swim Dresses: Discover The Knix Swimwear Collection

If you feel like the world is trying to coax you into a swim dress or swim skirt, run don’t walk to a different retailer. Here are some plus-size swimwear options to suit every need and hang-up.

You Want Support for a Larger Bust

If you have a larger bust, you may need a swimsuit that offers support so that movement is minimized and you feel stable and snug by the pool or on the beach.

Features to look for include:

• Wide straps
• Adjustable straps
• Built-in “invisible” support
• Underwire
• Full coverage cups

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Deep V One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Top: Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top

You Want Butt Coverage

Speaking of areas we all have hang-ups about… Mine is my ass. I usually deal with it by covering it up. So I always look for swimsuits with full butt coverage and if I wear a two-piece, I love a boyshort style bottom. 

Pro-tip: Take a cue from your favorite style of underwear here. Odds are you’re wearing a style that you feel best in already, so just look for the swimsuit version of that style!

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Classic One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Bottoms: Full Coverage Bikini Swim Bottom

You Want to Accentuate Your Waist

If you’re the type of person who loves wearing a wide belt around a dress, you probably really like your waist. There are a few kinds of swimsuits that will help you accentuate that:

• Bikini: Obviously, a bikini literally shows your waist, letting your curves speak for themselves
• Wrap swimsuit: The tie at the waist will accentuate this area
• Waist cut-outs or color blocking: Can be placed strategically to accentuate or minimize areas.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece Swimsuit: Side-Tie One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bikini Bottom: Bikini Swim Bottom

You Want to “Disguise” Your Midriff

One of the most common areas we share anxiety about is our belly/midriff area. First, a reminder here that there’s nothing wrong with your body and, as long as you’re happy, you can wear any damn swimsuit you please.

But if your midriff bothers you, we want you to feel comfortable too, and a high waist with some tummy control can be your best friend. So here are some styles of bathing suits that will help:

• Swim suits with a ruched body
• High-waisted bikini bottoms
• Gentle compression or tummy control to hold you in 

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece Bottom: Ultra High Rise Bikini Swim Bottom

You Just Want a Streamlined, Non-Nonsense Look

Want a streamlined, no-muss no-fuss classic swimsuit? You’re looking for a classic maillot. These suits are usually completely unadorned with no visual breaks and a clean neckline and straight back. However, do look for details to give you the support you need, like an invisible built-in bra and/or adjustable straps.

Knix Best Bet One-Piece: Classic One Piece

You Like Cute Details...

Cute details are a nice way to express a little personality with your suit. Maybe you want the sexy edginess of a strategically placed cut-out. Or perhaps you prefer the flirty femininity of frills. 

Of course, color can come into play here, too, as can pattern. If you want to stand out in a sea of plain black maillots, there are tonnes of good options. Look out for:

• Cut out details
• Strategically placed frills
• Details like zippers and ties
• Scalloped edging
• Color and pattern

Knix Best Bet One-Piece: Side-Tie One Piece Swimsuit

Knix Best Bet Two-Piece: Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top

Tips For Swimsuit Sizing (No Matter What Brand)

So, no matter what brand you’re shopping from, here are some general pointers:

Start With Your Regular Size

Swimsuits, like most garments with a lot of stretch, often look misleadingly small on the hanger. So don’t judge too much based on their appearance on the hanger. The best jumping-off point is the size you typically take. For swimsuits, this may be indicated as small/medium/large, etc., or in traditional sizes like size 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, etc. You may also find brands that label their sizes, like your bra size or cup size. While approaches to sizing are rarely standard across brands, and most of us go up and down across brands, this is the best place to start...

Consult the Size Chart & Whip Out Your Tape Measure

To get a clearer understanding of the sizes, pull up the size charts on the website you’re on. Most websites will have a size chart link in the product details of individual items.

Depending on the retailer, the size charts might include measurements for bust/underbust, waist, hips, and torso length. Measurements may be in inches or centimeters. 

To take accurate measurements, it’s best to use a fabric (or seamstress) measurement tape and take the following measurements:

• Bust: To get this measurement, measure over the fullest part of your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Underbust: This measurement will especially matter for underwire swimsuits or bikini tops. To get this measurement, measure directly under your bust, with the tape measure parallel to the floor. 
• Waist: This is the measurement around the narrowest part of your natural waistline.
• Hips: This is the measurement around the fullest part of your hip before the thigh begins to narrow. 
• Torso length: Torso length is important for swimsuits. You get this measurement by taking a measurement from your shoulder to the crotch at a measurement.

Compare the measurements you come up with with the size charge. Remember to read the size charts carefully to make sure you’re adhering to any particular measurement directions.

If You’re Between Two Bathing Suit Sizes, Go Small

Swimsuits usually have a lot of elastication and stretch over time and when wet, so if you’re right between two sizes, you’re likely safe going small. 

That said, going for a smaller swimsuit size shouldn’t push you into an uncomfortable experience. So if you notice any uncomfortable compression or red marks on your skin or find the suit difficult to get on and off, it’s likely you’ve gone too small.

Order Multiple Sizes (Checking Returns Policy)

Note: Different retailers will have different return policies (especially when items are on sale), so check that before trying this tip. Knix Swimwear is eligible for a return or exchange within 30 days of delivery and with the original sanitary strip and tags attached.

But assuming returns are easy, you might consider ordering multiple sizes (your size and the sizes up and down from it), so you can try on in the comfort of your home. Once you’re confident you’ve found the right size, return the others.

Try Bathing Suits at Home

Always try on your new swimsuit at home (even if you already tried it on in-store). There’s something about being at home, where you’re most comfortable, and trying on clothes that will give you a better sense of whether items fit correctly and are comfortable.

You’re familiar with the lighting and with your own mirrors. Plus, you’ll feel less rushed and even get a second opinion if you want one. 

Two-Pieces Let You Pick Two Sizes

Two pieces have the advantage of being sold as two separate parts, which means you can order swim tops and swim bottoms in different size of swimsuits. If your body is two different sizes (e.g., you have a full bust but narrow hips, or wide hips and a small chest), this may be an easier option than a one-piece which is designed for more uniform sizing.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.