Bikini or costume that fits, looks good and doesn't cost the earth?

[Closetlibrarian]

Oh wise people of MN, give me your summer swimwear tips.

I already have a nice flattering costume from Boden (black, ruched, halter type thing). Looking for another costume or bikini for summer hols. And don't want to spend as much as Boden/ Bravissimo. Would like it to be flattering, stylish and age appropriate.

I'm 43, 5'7", size 10/12, not as toned as I could be (thank you DC1&2, damn you love handles), roughly size 30E/F boobs.

I haven't worn a bikini for years, but was thinking I might be able to get away with one of those high-waisted styles, which I quite like...

Anyone bought or seen anything recently that they've loved?

maybe try here? x

There’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t wear a bikini and personally I think the bottoms with less fabric are an awful lot more flattering than the high waisted ones. Have a look at Freya - the Sundance style. It really is a very flattering bikini...

Joe browns do some nice 50s style halter neck ones that are flattering. And good sales!

I've used this before.

www.belle-lingerie.co.uk/half-price-swimwear/

They usually have a sale going on and do have decent bra sizes.

I keep recommending this site and just want to say that I don’t work for them (dentist!) but found a couple of bargain cup sized bikinis on there last year.
www.leialingerie.com/outlet/swimwear.aspx#page=1&srt=8&asc=0&minp=0&maxp=100&t=6951&s=13847&f=13850,14078&i=Full%20Cup%20Bikini%20Top,Halter%20Bikini%20Top,halter%20tankini,Plunge%20Bikini%20Top,Tankini%20Top

I got this - www.pourmoi.co.uk/products/splash-padded-underwired-swimsuit/

Really flattering and good quality. Actually, I bought a few bits but this one was my favourite

Bear with me as you may dismiss it but I got a cutaway side swimsuit and it is so flattering - seems to detract from the tummy but the cutaways are above the waist on the diagonal so not showing flabby bits. I look way better in it compared to a safe standard swimsuit that I ordered at the same time. Also recommend a pattern as one colour block swimsuits seem to emphasise bumps on me. I'm 47 and had dismissed cutway styles before.

Where did you get the cutaway swimsuit from JM?

If you’re looking for budget friendly, can I just recommend these bikini bottoms:

www.sportsdirect.com/golddigga-choker-bikini-bottoms-ladies-354463?colcode=35446303
They are TWO POUNDS.

I bought them to go with a more expensive black bikini top as I thought they’d do a good job hiding my c-section scar. They are amazing. They sit just below my belly button, make my tummy look flat and are high cut on the bum/legs so don’t make your legs look dumpy.

Sunken it was cheap as chips from ebay - but really good quality - better than a Boden one I had ordered wi!l see if I can find a link

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/UK-Women-Monokinis-One-Piece-Swimsuit-Beachwear-Swimwear-Bikini-Swimming-Costume/153394655778?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=453316438155&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&redirect=mobile

Thanks for the suggestions folks! I should probably have said not black! As I already have my lovely black halter neck one. So hoping for something a bit more colourful/ interesting.

Cutaway! Eek!

JM that's weirdly cheap! It pops up on my ig all the time and does look good

Try Pour Moi or tkmaxx

rosie for autograph M&S I got the polka dot one its great

M&S usually have pretty nice swimsuits

I like some of these but haven't bought any yet.

m.shein.co.uk/Beachwear-c-2039.html?attr_values=High%20Waist&attr_ids=161_357&c=Swimwear&pageFrom=sidecat

Thanks all. I’ve ordered a Rosie one from M&S and also a bunch to try on from Boden in the end, as with their current sale it worked out as cheap as some of the discount places recommended on here.