Buying Swimwear That Fits

FASHION · UNITED KINGDOM

Buying Swimwear That Fits

Sizing and support, fabric and chlorine, coverage and sun protection

Swimwear has the highest return rate of any clothing category, and most of it comes down to measuring rather than to the garment.

Measure rather than guessing

Bust at the fullest point, underbust, waist at the narrowest part and hips at the fullest. Compare against the brand's own chart, since swimwear sizing varies enormously and rarely matches clothing sizes.

Torso length matters for one-pieces and is almost never listed. If a costume digs into the shoulders or rides up, it is a torso length problem rather than a size problem.

Support

For a fuller bust, look for underwiring or moulded cups, adjustable straps, a proper back fastening and a wide underband. A halter neck puts the whole weight on the neck, which becomes painful over a day.

Cup-sized swimwear exists and is the answer for anyone above a D, rather than a general small, medium or large.

Fabric

Elastane content gives stretch and recovery, and the fabric should feel substantial rather than thin. Hold it up to the light, since pale fabrics become see-through when wet.

Chlorine-resistant fabric is worth it for regular pool swimming, since ordinary elastane degrades quickly in chlorinated water.

Care

Rinse in cold fresh water immediately after every swim, before sitting around in it. Hand wash cool, never wring, and dry flat in shade rather than direct sun.

Never leave wet swimwear balled up in a bag, and avoid sitting on rough concrete and hot tub jets, which destroy fabric.

Coverage and confidence

Choose something you can swim, bend and play in, since a costume you are constantly adjusting spoils a day. Higher-cut legs and fuller coverage are both about preference rather than body type.

Try it on and move properly — raise your arms, sit down and bend forward.

Two costumes

Alternating lets each dry fully, which doubles how long both last and is considerably more comfortable than pulling on a damp one.

Swimming and skin

Rinse and shower after chlorinated pools and after the sea, since both dry skin considerably. A moisturiser afterwards makes a noticeable difference on a week away.

See a doctor about any mole that changes in size, shape or colour, itches or bleeds.

Packing

Two costumes, a rash vest, a cover-up and a hat with a proper brim covers a week. Swimwear packs flat and dries fast, which makes it one of the easier things to bring extra of.

Sun protection

Wet fabric protects far less than dry fabric. A rash vest with a stated UPF rating covers the back and shoulders, which burn first.

Apply sunscreen generously and reapply after swimming and towelling.

WHERE TO BUY

Ready to shop Cupshe? Use the link below to visit the official store.

→ Shop Cupshe — official site

Visit this site