"Summer is officially here, which means beach and pool days are also here! Last summer, I was about a year postpartum, and I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t approach the time of year with a bit of dread. The task of finding the best postpartum swimsuits that made me feel confident felt like a big undertaking.
While I am on the road to accepting my postpartum body, the idea of wearing a bathing suit out in public still fills me with a certain amount of fear. I’ve gotten used to my new stretch marks, scars, and extra belly fat in private. But the idea of showing that off proudly in public feels a bit like being thrown in the deep end (no pun intended).
With that in mind, I started getting prepped for swimsuit season early this year by doing lots of research. Over the course of several weeks, I tried on a seemingly endless array of different bikinis and one pieces to find the perfect ones that would make me feel more confident postpartum. Scroll on for the best postpartum swimsuits I found that made me feel confident and comfortable in my new body.
One-Piece Postpartum Swimsuits
Starting off with a tried and true favorite, this Amazon swimsuit has become a viral sensation for a reason. It’s completely flattering but still sexy with a cut-out right below the chest
4 colors available
sizes XS – XL
This swimsuit is an editor-fave due to its ultra-sculpting fabric that acts as shapewear. The full coverage bottoms, hidden underwire bra, and draped fabric over the belly area make this one piece flattering from every angle.
3 colors available
sizes 6 – 16
This Summersalt one-piece is a classic for a reason. It’s universally flattering, and there are so many colors and patterns to choose from. Read a full review here.
10+ colors and patterns available
sizes 0 – 24
An Andie one piece is the one bathing suit I was able to wear comfortably both pre-pregnancy and postpartum. The deep V neckline is sexy, while the compression fabric adds a flattering shape and extra coverage to the belly.
7 colors available
sizes XS – XXXL (with additional options for long torsos)
If you’re still nursing, this Kindred Bravely one-piece is made for both maternity and postpartum. The crossover cut can be untied for easy breastfeeding.
3 colors and patterns available
sizes S – 1X with two cup size options
As someone who had a C-section, I was particularly conscious of my lower belly postpartum and the scarring. That’s why I love this cute twist-front one-piece, which still shows off some skin while providing more coverage to the lower half.
3 colors available
sizes XS – 4X
The shape of this Summersalt one-piece is both super flattering and super comfy. Plus, there are so many fun patterns and colors available to try.
10+ colors available
sizes 0 – 22
This one-piece from Albion features full coverage with a flattering waistband along your hips. The bustier sweetheart neckline is super cute, and has an underwire for support.
3 colors and patterns available
sizes XS – XXL
When you want a little extra coverage, a swimdress is a great option. The Eomenie Swimdress offers a variety of cute colors and patterns, with a tie-waist that adds an extra cute detail to the suit!
10+ colors and patterns available
sizes S – XXL and 18 – 22 Plus
Postpartum, I wanted a little bit of compression as well as a bit more coverage on the upper thighs. This swimsuit does both those things but still adds some shape with a cute sweetheart neckline.
10+ colors available
sizes S – 3XL
If you’re looking for a less form-fitting option around your belly, try out a blouson style one piece! This cute floral pattern is quick drying, and features a more flowing top and fitted bottom.
3 patterns available
sizes 8 – 18
Two-Piece Postpartum Swimsuits
It’s impossible not to gravitate toward a black swimsuit, but this sparkle fabric adds a little something extra. Plus, the matching bottoms are high-rise and full-coverage.
2 styles available
This adorable crop top is made extra special with ruffle straps that can be worn on or off the shoulder. You can pair it with high-waisted bottoms that provide more full coverage. Read a full review of Albion swim here.
10+ colors and patterns available
sizes XXS – XXXL
This two-piece is the perfect example of a tankini that provides coverage while still being really flattering! The top features a criss-cross side cutout, while the bottoms are high-waisted with full coverage.
sizes XXS – XXL
Morgan Flaherty, Contributing Writer
Morgan is full-time writer, editor, and mom. She lives in Florida with her husband, daughter, and one very sassy cat. Along with her work as a contributing writer for The Everymom, her writing has appeared in Well + Good, InStyle, Scary Mommy, Byrdie, and Baby Chick.