With the sun already blazing and temperatures climbing into the 80s, swim season is officially on the horizon. Nothing signals the start of summer quite like the hunt for the perfect swimsuit—and this year, I’ve been especially motivated. With a birthday trip to Tulum on the calendar, I’ve been deep in the world of swimwear, searching for pieces that feel both flattering and fun for my curvier frame.
Here’s the good news: there has never been a better time to shop for plus-size swimwear. Many of the biggest retailers and beloved independent brands have just launched their newest collections, and inclusivity is no longer an afterthought—it’s front and center. That means more styles, more sizes, and more chances to find a suit that feels like it was made just for you.
Timing Is Everything
If you’re thinking about refreshing your swim wardrobe, now is the moment. Designers are rolling out their spring and summer collections, which means the racks (and virtual carts) are stocked with fresh colorways, bold patterns, and updated silhouettes. Shopping early gives you the best selection of sizes before the season really kicks into gear. For plus-size shoppers in particular, it’s worth acting fast—popular styles and extended sizing often sell out quickly.
Target’s Designer Swim Collab
One of the most exciting launches this season is happening at Target. On Sunday, April 15, the retailer is unveiling a special designer collaboration with Fe Noel, Rhode, and Agua Bendita. The collection is size-inclusive, offering options up to 4X, and includes not just swimsuits but also dresses, separates, and cover-ups. Think of it as a one-stop vacation wardrobe.
As with many Target collaborations, these pieces are expected to move fast, so if you spot a design you love, it’s best to grab it right away. The affordability factor makes it even more tempting—you can pick up a complete look for less than the price of a single designer bikini elsewhere.
Swimwear Under $200 That Doesn’t Compromise on Style
For those who want to explore beyond the collabs, there are plenty of chic options under $200 across both mainstream retailers and specialty brands. Eloquii, for example, continues to impress season after season with swimsuits that are sexy, modern, and thoughtfully designed for curvy and plus-size bodies. From plunging necklines to high-waisted bikinis, their pieces highlight curves rather than hiding them.
Another win: many retailers are offering early-season discounts, making it a smart time to stock up. Whether you’re a one-and-done swimsuit shopper or someone who loves having a rotation of styles on hand, this is the sweet spot where fresh designs meet promotional pricing.
Finding the Right Fit
When it comes to swimsuits, the fit matters just as much as the style. Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:
- High-waist bottoms are universally flattering and offer a balance of comfort and coverage without sacrificing style.
- Underwire tops provide great support for fuller busts while still looking sleek and playful.
- Asymmetrical necklines and cutouts can add interest while strategically highlighting your best features.
- Bold colors and prints aren’t just for smaller sizes—they make just as powerful a statement on curvier figures.
Most importantly, confidence is the best accessory. A swimsuit that makes you feel good when you slip it on is worth more than a dozen trend-driven pieces that don’t.
Celebrating Black-Owned Swimwear
For those who want to shop with purpose, consider exploring Black-owned swimwear brands. These designers are bringing incredible creativity and diversity to the market, often with size-inclusive ranges that celebrate every body. From daring cutouts to minimalist one-pieces, these collections often blend cultural influences with modern design, resulting in swimwear that feels fresh and empowering.
Dressing Beyond the Pool
A complete swim wardrobe doesn’t stop at the bikini. Cover-ups, breezy dresses, and coordinated separates take your look from the pool to dinner with minimal effort. Think gauzy kaftans, lightweight sarongs, or chic linen trousers paired with your swimsuit top. The key is versatility—pieces that transition seamlessly between lounging under an umbrella and sipping cocktails at sunset.
Why This Year Feels Different
For a long time, curvy and plus-size women had limited options when it came to swimwear. The choices were often drab, overly modest, or simply not designed with real bodies in mind. But the tide has turned. Brands are finally acknowledging that style doesn’t stop at a certain size, and the results are showing up in collections that feel aspirational and joyful.
This season’s offerings are proof: you don’t have to compromise. Whether you’re packing for a beach getaway, a weekend by the pool, or just planning to soak up the sun in your own backyard, there’s a swimsuit out there that will make you feel radiant.
Final Thoughts
As summer inches closer, I’m embracing the ritual of swimsuit shopping with fresh eyes. It’s not about hiding or minimizing—it’s about celebrating. It’s about finding suits that make me want to jump into the water, dance in the sand, and sip margaritas without a second thought.
If you’ve been putting off your own search, let this be your sign: start now, while the racks are full, the collections are hot off the press, and your dream suit is waiting. Whether you lean toward sleek and minimal, bold and colorful, or somewhere in between, there’s a perfect fit out there. And when you find it? Trust me—you’ll know.
Because swimwear, at its best, isn’t just about fabric and fit. It’s about freedom, confidence, and the joy of soaking up the season in a body that deserves to be celebrated.
