Whether you’re ready for it or not, swimsuit season is here. I don’t know about you, but I’m so ready to start hitting the beach and even plan on a mini vacation to a fun location. Lately, my family has been spending the occasional weekend afternoon at our local YMCA pool, and every time we get ready to go, I realize the same thing: I don’t have a swimsuit I actually feel good in.
Best Swimsuits and Cover-Ups for 2026
For years, I’ve defaulted to board shorts and tank tops because I haven’t found a swimsuit I’ve felt truly comfortable wearing since before having my children. But this year, I decided it’s time to take the plunge and find something that works for my body as it is now. I’m entering swimsuit season with zero shame, plenty of body positivity and a mission to find the right fit. Come shopping with me and maybe you’ll find one too!
One-Piece Swimsuits
I’m still trying to figure out if I’m officially a one-piece gal now, mostly because I don’t think I’ve ever really owned one. But during my search, I found a few options I’d absolutely be willing to try.
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One of my favorites is this zip-front suit. The ruched midsection and zipper detail seem like they’d do a great job of smoothing and supporting my midsection while still accentuating the waist, basically everything I’m looking for right now.
If you like a no-frills swimsuit, this Italian underwire suit is another great option. It has built-in structure and support thanks to the underwire top. The clean lines and bold solid colors keep it classic and sophisticated. At under $50, it’s also one of those rare finds where you can grab a couple of colors and be set for the entire summer.
I also love the simplicity of this square-neck tank suit. It almost looks like a fitted tank top paired with swim bottoms, which is very much my vibe these days. Throw on a pair of casual shorts, and you’ve got an easy beach-day outfit that works from your first step onto the sand to cocktails at sunset.
Two-Piece Swimsuits
Personally, I’m at the stage of life where the triangle string bikini is no longer my go-to style. These days, I’m looking for two-piece swimsuits with a little more coverage, and thankfully, there are so many good options that still feel fun and youthful.
One of my favorites so far is this high-waisted ribbed set with a scoop-neck top from Aerie. It comes in several bright colors, though the blue immediately caught my eye. Also, this set has different silhouettes for the top if you don’t like the scoop neck.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with extra coverage, this tankini set in a rich midnight blue is worth a look. It’s especially great for anyone with a larger chest or anyone who simply wants a little more midsection coverage. The gold hardware detail at the center adds a polished touch, and the draped front gives just the right peek of skin.
And because swimsuit shopping should still be fun, I had to include one showstopper suit as an extra special option. This 3D Palm bikini top and high waist bottoms from FARM Rio x Anthropologie is absolutely stunning. The sage green paired with gold trim feels incredibly luxe, and while it’s definitely more of an investment piece, it’s the kind of swimsuit that makes getting dressed for the beach feel special.
Swimsuit Cover-Ups
As I mentioned earlier, I never really had much use for swim cover-ups because I typically just wore shorts and a tank top to the pool or beach. But now that I’m actually shopping for proper swimwear again, I’m finding myself drawn to the idea of a real cover-up too.
Personally, I think separates would be my go-to. I found a fun striped sarong for the bottom paired with an airy button-front shirt that would be perfect for keeping my shoulders protected from too much sun.
If you prefer dresses, this crochet full-length cover-up is such a chic option to throw over just about any swimsuit. Add a few chunky summer accessories — I’m thinking bright beaded bracelets or oversized gold earrings — plus a simple leather sandal, and suddenly you have a polished beach outfit that works for an upscale resort or a casual day at the beach.
Finally, if you like a short cover-up, try this tie-robe cover-up from Echo Design Group. The cinched waist helps to show off your curves, and the blue-and-white nautical print feels playful and timeless for summer.
Expert Style Tips
1. Start With The Basics
Shopping for a new swimsuit can feel intimidating, but starting simple makes the process much easier. First decide: one-piece or two-piece? More coverage or a little less? Once you answer those questions, everything else becomes easier to narrow down. And remember, you do not need to “earn” the right to wear a swimsuit. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable exactly as you are.
2. Focus On The Details You Love
Ruching, ruffles, hardware, bright colors, classic neutrals are the kind of details that really do make a difference. Once you figure out the silhouette you feel best in, the fun part is choosing the little design elements that make you feel stylish and confident.
3. Try More Than One Style
Swimsuits can definitely be an investment these days, but trying a couple of different styles can really help you figure out what works best for you. Sometimes the suit you think you’ll love ends up not feeling quite right once you actually wear it out for the day, and sometimes the unexpected option becomes your favorite. It’s all part of the process.
At the end of the day, swimsuit shopping should feel fun, not stressful. The right swimsuit isn’t about changing your body, it’s about finding something that helps you feel comfortable, confident and ready to enjoy summer.
— Carmen Turner
You may also like to read more of Carmen’s posts like Spring 2026 Flowy Parachute Silhouettes: Dresses, Tops & Pants to Try Now and Cobalt Blue Outfit Ideas: The Bold Spring Color Trend to Try Now.
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