Finding Your Perfect Plus Size Maternity Bathing Suits: A Guide to Dressing Bump and Body

The first time I slipped into a plus size maternity bathing suit last summer, I was standing in a tiny fitting room at a mall in Bellevue. The fabric was soft—a ribbed, deep-teal blend that felt like a second skin. I had spent years avoiding swimwear altogether, feeling like my body didn't belong in the sun. But this time, with a bump that was finally starting to show, I realized something: the right suit changes everything. If you're searching for plus size maternity bathing suits that actually fit and make you feel beautiful, you are not alone. Let’s walk through what to look for, where to find them, and how to embrace the woman you are right now.

Why Comfort and Confidence Matter in Plus Size Maternity Bathing Suits

Pregnancy changes everything—including how clothes sit on your body. Your breasts grow, your belly expands, and your hips widen. A regular plus-size swimsuit might still fit, but it won't accommodate the specific needs of a growing bump. That’s where plus size maternity bathing suits come in. They are designed with extra room in the belly, often with ruching or stretchy panels that adjust as you grow. More importantly, they offer support where you need it most: built-in shelf bras, wider straps, and higher-cut legs that don't dig into your thighs. I’ve tried suits from Target’s maternity line and from dedicated plus-size brands like Torrid and Lane Bryant. The difference is night and day. When you wear a suit that fits well, you stop tugging at the hemline and start living in the moment—building sandcastles with your toddler or floating in the waves, completely at ease.

Key Features to Look For in Plus Size Maternity Bathing Suits

Not all maternity swimwear is created equal. Here are the features I prioritize when shopping for plus size maternity bathing suits:

• **Full belly coverage or tummy control panels:** Some suits offer a stretchy overlay that smooths without compressing. Others have a ruched side design that grows with you. Both are great—it depends on whether you want your bump highlighted or just comfortably supported.
• **Wide adjustable straps:** Thin straps dig into shoulders, especially with a heavier bust. Look for straps that are at least an inch wide and adjustable so you can fine-tune the fit.
• **Built-in bra support:** Even if you aren't nursing yet, your breasts are likely fuller. A shelf bra, underwire, or even a soft cup can make the difference between a day at the beach and a day of constant adjustments.
• **High-waisted or skirted bottoms:** Many plus size maternity bathing suits come as tankinis or high-waist bikinis. I love a high-waist bottom because it covers the belly entirely and doesn’t slip down. Torrid’s high-waist bikini bottom with a side tie is a personal favorite—it gives a flattering silhouette and stays put.
• **Quick-dry fabric:** Sounds small, but nothing ruins a beach day like a suit that stays cold and wet for hours. Look for nylon-spandex blends that wick moisture and dry in minutes.

Best Styles for Your Body Type

Every pregnant body is different, and the best plus size maternity bathing suits for you depend on how you want to feel. Here are three silhouettes to consider:

• **The Tankini:** This is the most versatile option. A tankini top that hits below the belly gives full coverage while allowing easy bathroom breaks. Pair it with a high-waisted bottom or a brief. I own a black tankini from Motherhood Maternity with a floral print overlay—it cost $45 and I wore it into my third trimester.
• **The One-Piece with Side Shaping:** If you prefer a single piece, look for one with shirring or ruching along the sides. This not only flatters curves but also allows the suit to stretch as your belly grows. Lane Bryant’s “Scoop Neck One-Piece” runs about $80 and comes in sizes up to 28. The bust is generous, and the leg openings sit higher to elongate the legs.
• **The High-Waist Bikini:** For the confident mother-to-be who wants to show the bump, a high-waist bikini is a dream. ASOS Curve carries a ribbed high-waist two-piece in loads of colors—I wrote about the rust orange one last month. The top has a soft cup and cross-back straps, and the bottom sits just below the belly button, offering total coverage.

Where to Shop Plus Size Maternity Bathing Suits

I’ve scoured the internet and tried on countless suits so you don’t have to. Here are my top five retailers for plus size maternity bathing suits:

1. **Torrid** – Their “Swim Shop” has a dedicated maternity section with suits from $40 to $80. Their high-waist bottoms and supportive tops are consistently praised. I recommend the “Torrid Love” high-waist bottom in black—it’s a staple.
2. **Lane Bryant** – Known for their Cacique line, Lane Bryant offers underwire bikinis and one-pieces with built-in bras. Prices hover around $70–$90. Their “Perfect Coverage” one-piece has a V-neck and shirred sides.
3. **Motherhood Maternity** – A classic choice for maternity wear, including swim. Their tankinis often feature tummy control panels and come in petites and talls. Prices are budget-friendly ($30–$50).
4. **ASOS Curve** – ASOS has a wide range of trendy plus size maternity bathing suits, including cut-out details and color blocking. Their sizing is consistent, and they often have sales. I purchased a tropical-print one-piece for $55 last summer.
5. **Amazon** – Don’t overlook Amazon. Brands like “Sweetlife” and “EXOFFICE” offer plus size maternity swimwear with Prime shipping. Just pay attention to reviews—look for check details, lining thickness, and sizing advice.

Putting It All Together: Your Summer Beach Day

Picture this: You slip into your new plus size maternity bathing suit, the fabric cool against your skin. You grab a towel, a sunhat, and a bottle of water. The sand is warm under your feet, and your partner is already in the water, calling your name. You don’t hesitate—you walk into the waves, bump proud, body strong. This is what dressing the woman you are looks like. Not the woman you were before pregnancy. Not the one you’ll be after. This version of you, right now, is worthy of the sun, the sand, and the perfect suit that holds you gently through it all.

If you have a favorite plus size maternity bathing suit that made your summer, drop it in the comments or send me a message. I’d love to hear what worked for you. And if you’re still searching, remember: you don’t need to shrink to shine—you just need a suit that lets your light through.