Let me tell you something: I remember the exact moment I realized I needed a plus size maternity swimdress. It was a Tuesday afternoon in late June, and the Seattle sun had finally decided to show up. I was seven months pregnant, my body had stretched and grown in ways I never expected, and I stood in front of my closet feeling like a stranger in my own skin. The old bikinis didn't fit. The one-piece I bought before pregnancy felt like a sausage casing. I wanted something that covered my belly without looking like a tent, something that made me feel like myself again. That's when I started my search for the perfect swimdress — and it changed everything.
If you're reading this, you're probably in a similar place. Maybe you're planning a babymoon, or just hoping to enjoy a pool day without anxiety. Either way, I want you to know that the right plus size maternity swimdress can make all the difference. It's not just about coverage — it's about feeling beautiful, comfortable, and ready to soak up the sun. In this article, I'll walk you through what to look for, share my top picks, and help you find the one that feels like it was made for you.
Why a Swimdress is a Game-Changer for Maternity Swimwear
Pregnancy changes your body in ways that are both miraculous and confusing. Your belly grows, your hips widen, your breasts become fuller, and suddenly, your old swimsuit options just don't work. A plus size maternity swimdress solves these problems gracefully. The empire waist or ruched bodice lifts the bust and skims the belly, while the flared skirt gives you room to move without clinging. I remember the first time I put one on—I took a deep breath and actually felt my shoulders relax. The fabric draped softly over my bump, the skirt swished when I walked, and I didn't spend the day tugging or adjusting. That freedom is priceless.
Plus, swimdresses offer built-in sun protection for your expanding skin, and they transition beautifully from the water to a beachside café. You can throw on a pair of sandals and a floppy hat and look instantly put together. Many styles have built-in shelf bras or removable cups, so you don't have to sacrifice support. And because they're designed for maternity, the fabric stretches to accommodate your growing belly well into the third trimester.
What to Look for in a Plus Size Maternity Swimdress
When you're shopping for a plus size maternity swimdress, there are a few key features that separate the truly comfortable from the ones that leave you disappointed. First, look for fabric with a good amount of stretch — a blend of nylon and spandex is ideal. It should hold its shape even when wet, and it should dry relatively quickly. I've tried dresses that felt great in the fitting room but turned saggy after one swim. Trust me, you want that recovery.
Second, pay attention to the neckline. A V-neck or scoop neck elongates your torso and balances out a fuller bust. If you're self-conscious about your arms, a flutter sleeve or a slight cap sleeve can provide gentle coverage without feeling restrictive. The skirt length matters too — I prefer my swimdress to hit about mid-thigh, so I can move easily but still feel covered. Some brands offer longer skirts, but test them out to make sure they don't bunch up when you sit.
Third, check the lining. Many plus size maternity swimdresses come with a built-in panty that provides discreet tummy support. That was a game-changer for me. I didn't have to worry about the skirt floating up in the water, because the brief underneath kept everything in place.
My Top Picks for Plus Size Maternity Swimdresses
I've tried several brands over the past few months, and a few stand out as my absolute favorites. Let me walk you through them.
Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Maternity Swimdress — This is the one I reach for most often. It comes in a gorgeous forest green that makes my skin look alive, and the price is reasonable at around $45. The fabric is thick enough to smooth without feeling heavy, and the built-in shelf bra offers solid support for a D cup. The skirt flares just enough to hide the belly when I want it to, but the ruched sides let me show off my bump when I'm feeling proud. If you can only buy one, start here.
Tankini Swimdress from Elomi — Elomi is known for their bra-sized swimwear, and their plus size maternity swimdress (they call it a tankini, but it's essentially a swimdress with a separate bottom) is exceptional. The underwire cups give real lift, and the tummy-control panel is a lifesaver for C-section scars or general sensitivity. It's pricier — around $90 — but the quality is unmatched. I wore mine to a friend's pool party and got three compliments before I even got wet.
The Jessica Simpson Maternity Swimdress — Yes, Jessica Simpson has a maternity line, and it includes a solid plus size option. Her swimdress features a fun cherry print that instantly lifts my mood. The fabric is slightly thinner than the Motherhood Maternity one, so it dries faster, but I recommend sizing up for a more relaxed fit. At around $55, it's a cheerful choice for a babymoon.
Swimdress from Roaman's — If you need extended sizes (up to 6X or 28W), Roaman's has a lovely plus size maternity swimdress that comes in sizes 14W–40W. The skirt is longer — almost knee-length — and the neckline is a modest scoop. The color selection is more muted (black, navy, wine), but that works perfectly for a classic, timeless look. It's about $65, and the customer reviews rave about the fit for larger bellies.
How to Style Your Swimdress for the Beach or Pool
Once you've found your plus size maternity swimdress, the fun part begins: accessorizing. I love pairing mine with a wide-brimmed straw hat and oversized sunglasses. Not only does it look effortlessly chic, but it also protects your face from the sun. A lightweight cover-up — like a crochet kimono or a sheer sarong — adds an extra layer of modesty when you're walking to the snack bar.
For your feet, opt for flat, waterproof sandals. I have a pair of black Birkenstocks that I wear everywhere, and they're comfortable enough for sandy toes. If you're heading to a resort pool, you might also bring a chic tote bag large enough to hold a towel, water bottle, and snacks. Remember, you're growing a human — you deserve to carry extra gummies.
A note on swimsuit care: rinse your plus size maternity swimdress in cold water after each wear, especially if you've been in a chlorinated pool. The elastic will last longer, and the color won't fade. I learned that the hard way with a beautiful turquoise dress that turned streaky after three pool visits.
Final Thoughts: Dressing the Mom You Are
Finding the perfect plus size maternity swimdress isn't just about the garment — it's about giving yourself permission to take up space. I spent too long feeling like I had to hide my changing body, like I needed to apologize for the weight I'd gained and the life I was carrying. But you don't need to shrink to shine. The right swimdress lets you float, laugh, and splash with your belly front and center, or soft and covered — whatever makes you feel like the radiant version of yourself.
I hope this guide helps you find a swimdress that feels like a hug. Whether you're three months along or due next week, there's a style out there that will make you think, Yes, this is me. And when you find it, I guarantee you'll feel the same relief I did — standing in that dressing room, skin finally resting, ready for the sun.
Dress the woman you are, not the one you were. And don't forget the sunscreen.
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