If you've got it, flaunt it, says Rivkie Baum
Sunny days may well have been in short supply this summer, but we're hoping that like us, you've got some kind of back up plan ready to put into action that involves a pool, a lounger, and a good book. However, this picturesque scenario wouldn't be complete without some perfect swimwear to ensure you are pool ready at all times. Lucky for you then, that there has never been a better time to start getting your swimwear wardrobe together, with a host of styles and trends to choose from this season.
The plus size fashion industry has grown hugely over the last five years, and with the rise of some great body positive representatives, it is clear that brands are realising that every body, is beach body ready, and are happy to celebrate this with some fantastic plus size swimwear options.
Whether you want to put your curves on display in one of this season’s hot plus size bikinis, or are embracing the return of the one piece swimsuit; plus size swimwear has really focussed in on being as stylish as its high street and designer counterparts.
Remember, every body deserves to feel great this summer, so whichever look you choose, own it.
Scroll through our top plus size swimwear for this summer and you'll be counting down the days to your holiday...
1. Marina Rinaldi’s Two Piece Swimsuit with Polka Dots in China Blue, £176 at Marina Rinaldi
This gorgeous bikini with a twisted front has supportive high waisted and ruched briefs for style that also skims and supports curves effortlessly. With removable straps you can alter the top into a bandeau style which is great for avoiding tan lines. The striking polka dot print is fun and summery and the bold hues have a real ‘Italian Riviera vibe’ - Bellissimo!
2. Robyn Lawley Printed Swimsuit, £119.99 at Navabi
International curve model, Robyn Lawley, launched her own swimwear line several seasons ago having appeared on numerous magazine covers, Sports Illustrated and a Ralph Lauren campaign. This arty printed swimsuit, with cut out, laddered back, is a quirky take on printed one pieces this season.
3. Kissimmee Two Piece Bikini with Adjustable Skirted Brief in Crochet, From £44 at Elomi
If you’re used to wearing a supportive bra, a plus size bikini from a lingerie brand can often be a really great option as they use their expertise to create extremely supportive swimwear. This gorgeous, bold, two piece from Elomi comes as a mix and match range so you can get the perfect fit. We love the skirted brief which is great if you want some extra upper thigh coverage. The crochet detailing is bang on trend too.
4. Tropical Print Bikini, Top £22, Brief £18 at ASOS
First venture into the world of bikinis? A high waisted brief is an easy way to dip your toe in the water. The high waisted brief offers support and a little extra coverage, while this illusion panel in a tropical print streamlines the silhouette and is right on the money trend wise. The halter neck style can also give some great support and shape to larger busts.
5. Swim One Piece, £159.95 at Rigby & Peller, Prima Donna
Sports luxe has been a huge trend in swimwear for S/S’16 and this has been particularly evident in the resurgent popularity of streamlined one pieces. This chic and athletic swimsuit is perfect for creating an hour glass silhouette through its clever panel detailing.
6. Tiger Lily Control Swimsuit, £42.00, Pour Moi? at figleaves.com
If you’re after a swimsuit that will sculpt and smooth, then look out for swimwear that has ‘control’ panel detailing. This means that the swimsuit will offer extra support and create a smooth silhouette. We love the eye catching digital print on this one too.
7. Spy Swimsuit, $109, Ashley Graham x Swimsuitsforall
Looking for high fashion plus size swimwear? No problem. Ashley Graham has teamed up with Swimsuitsforall to launch her first line of swimsuits and she has really pushed the envelope in terms of style offerings. From a plus size string bikini, to this season’s on trend plunge swimsuit, Ashley’s line has it covered. This one shoulder, mesh panel one piece is perfect for any pool party.
8. Bikini, was £69.99 now £35.99, Violetta at Mango
Mango launched their plus size line several seasons ago which now also offers a small selection in swim pieces. A tie- side brief is great for leg lengthening as the high rise will make your legs appear longer, while the halter neck style with wide chest band will offer good support to larger busts,
9. The Tsarina Bikini, Gabi Fresh x Swim Sexy, $68.60 at Swimsuitsforall
It isn’t all about one pieces and high-waisted briefs, Gabi Fresh continues her trail blazing line with Swimsuitsforall this season and we are loving these low rise briefs with matching longer line bikini top in timeless, leopard print. The khaki hue ensures this is bold and cool, rather than brassy.
10. Mesh Inset Swimsuit, £69.90, Cactus at Navabi
Cut out detailing has been a huge trend for swimwear this season and we love the mesh side panels that give a nod to the look in this piece. Placing the ladder panels along the side of the swimsuit creates a streamlined silhouette, while the mesh also taps into the sports luxe vibe for S/S’16
11. Multiway Swimsuit, £39, OneOneThree
One One Three launched swimwear for the first time this season and it packs a massive style punch. This black swimsuit with plunge, keyhole detailing is a real head turner and what it lacks in bust support it makes up for in style. Better still, it is multi way so you can also create an on trend, plunging halter neck too.
12. Havana, Bandage Plus Size Swimsuit, £87.72 at Monif C
Available this season in a multitude of colours and prints, the signature, cut-out, bandage swimsuit is the piece to wear round the pool if you want to be noticed. Taking the cut-out trend to a new level, this Monif C swimsuit shows that plus size swimwear is no longer about covering up, it is all about flaunting it.