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Am I the only one that hates women’s swimwear/beachwear options?

276 replies

Mudonstairs · 24/06/2024 11:32

A total first world problem…Just wanting a rant really. I have booked my first holiday since becoming a mum and am finding the bikini options quite depressing. I’ve never liked one piece swim suits so bikini/tankini is really my only option. I just find them all so revealing and I wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing them. The tankini options tend to look so plain and unattractive and I find they are marketed at the plus size market so unavailable in my size sometimes. I am finding most styles are either too revealing or on the other end of the scale just frumpy 🤷🏻‍♀️ I just want something pretty that covers the bottom a bit better. I don’t want to have shave or wax while I’m away for two weeks so knickers are a bit too revealing. I feel annoyed that men don’t have to decide whether they want their pubes on show!!!

I am late thirties, a size 8 but I do go up a size or two on bottoms to get more coverage. Another rant: why do the bottoms only cover half a bum cheek?! 🤬 perhaps a lot of retailers believe that women want to bare as much flesh as possible, especially if they are of a smaller frame??? I don’t get it.

I have bought a skirted bottom from M&S online (can’t remember which brand) which is ok and still feminine without looking frumpy. But I can’t find anything else remotely pretty but still not too much flesh on the bottom area on show. People have suggested sarongs/cover ups but honestly I just want something I can go in and out of a pool without too much faffing. I will have a two year old to run after!

Sorry, rant over! Does anyone else feel my pain?

OP posts:
Thread gallery
23
Sakuem · 25/06/2024 10:06

Mudonstairs · 24/06/2024 12:01

You get me! I feel like I have little choice but to choose swim wear that parades me as a piece of meat. I don’t walk about in knickers in daily life and men don’t have to do it but somehow society has accepted that this is the norm for women and I feel really annoyed that in this day and age we are in this position.

Like you say, anything that has more coverage is like an obvious category. “I’m an Olympian” or “I’m covering head to toe for religious reasons”. I’m neither of those. Just want to be comfortable in the same way that a man can be!

I've felt like this since a teenager (basically since puberty) I felt too self concious to go swimming coz it felt like I was wearing underwear in public. It's annoying that shops don't stock in store anymore and have to buy online, so can't try them on first. This happened at Debenhams with maternity wear. I wanted to try them on coz my size and shape had changed and needed them same day, not wait a week for them to be delivered 😅
xx

(*edit)
I also see very skimpy swim wear online when I'm looking for a swimming costume for toddler girl and wonder why the boys' cover more 😅
Have gone for the all in one shorts type for toddler, also to protect from UV 🌞

housethatbuiltme · 25/06/2024 10:42

I have always worn modesty swimwear (not a birkini but t-shirt top and shorts under skirt styles) and I find they are always marketed to plus size too which is really irritating. Like size 8 or 10 people can't also want to be covered up.

I hate feeling so 'on display' while moving around, I also hate my big bum out and as you said all bottoms love to disappear in the void like the cookie monsters eating them and I don't want half my ass out. I have a patch of different coloured skin on my shoulder so like a sleeve so I don't look two tone and attract stairs and kids chatting.

Be careful if you are going to France, they wont let you wear anything with an ounce of material to cover anything more than the minimum.

I find ordering from china gives the best option as they have some pretty 'swim dresses' but their sizing can be very small (not only tight but height wise too, which is a problem in one piece suits) and shipping often takes ages.

JackieGoodman · 25/06/2024 11:31

I like a tankini with shorts style but sometimes wear the shorts with a bikini top. I got a 3 piece set from Amazon, similar to this
Shorts/small bikini style top plus vest.

EUDOLAH Women Tribal Printed Tankini Set Soft Elastic Swimsuits with Boyshort Three Piece Bikini (L, 0 Black) : Amazon.co.uk: Fashion

Shop EUDOLAH Women Tribal Printed Tankini Set Soft Elastic Swimsuits with Boyshort Three Piece Bikini (L, 0 Black). Free delivery and returns on eligible orders.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Eudolah-Printed-Tankini-Swimsuits-Boyshort/dp/B01IOUQ32G/ref=sxin_15_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.b972873e-8aa8-47b3-acc0-16089943af80%3Aamzn1.sym.b972873e-8aa8-47b3-acc0-16089943af80&crid=2B2YL01SH8S5P&cv_ct_cx=3%20piece%20tankini%20sets%20for%20women%20uk&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CGol6NZoUSx6872eCIfc9yB2uYtu-9cjTRfzsaGmvuYbU5pzIL68nvj9PqMUc7C7TDMY4nwzIN1TLUxq42-NSw.wekAdBrRPnTzPGiM4q6r7C9Ac_YvLh7tW4qnXt5jsYU&dib_tag=se&keywords=3%20piece%20tankini%20sets%20for%20women%20uk&pd_rd_i=B01IOUQ32G&pd_rd_r=45670763-c1e0-447c-b0dc-d21f5380fab3&pd_rd_w=jZd8N&pd_rd_wg=7cwC5&pf_rd_p=b972873e-8aa8-47b3-acc0-16089943af80&pf_rd_r=PGV14NCHEPJEZ1JVYDNN&psc=1&qid=1719311071&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9zZWFyY2hfdGhlbWF0aWM&sprefix=Women%27s%20Tankinis%203%20%2Caps%2C125&sr=1-4-6df5946f-bbf7-403a-a962-2ffb10f764e2-spons&tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-style-and-beauty-5104126-am-i-the-only-one-that-hates-womens-swimwearbeachwear-options

user3344556 · 25/06/2024 11:38

I haven't read the whole thread, so apologies if this has been mentioned before, but Free People has some great options. I did bite the bullet and have laser hair removal but we do a lot of kayaking and I like their suits for comfort and wearability when doing something active.

www.freepeople.com/uk/bikini-bottoms/?swimBottomCoverage=Full,Swim%20Short&topper=3

jwpetal · 25/06/2024 12:26

I agree with you. I took my daughters (14) shopping and all of the bottoms covered a small portion for all of us. I did finally find something that was OK but really none of us want our bodies hanging out. I will follow some of the links suggested.

Mudonstairs · 25/06/2024 12:34

PostPopper · 25/06/2024 00:22

I found this at John Lewis & Partners. What do you think?

Thanks but the link just takes me to the John Lewis website. Could you try link again please?

OP posts:
Mudonstairs · 25/06/2024 12:41

jwpetal · 25/06/2024 12:26

I agree with you. I took my daughters (14) shopping and all of the bottoms covered a small portion for all of us. I did finally find something that was OK but really none of us want our bodies hanging out. I will follow some of the links suggested.

I don’t understand why there aren’t as many nice more modest options out there for women and girls. Most people complain that young women shouldn’t feel pressured to dress a certain way or grow up too fast, but what choice do they have when they go out to the shops and that’s all they see🤷🏻‍♀️

OP posts:
VimtoVimto · 25/06/2024 12:55

I’ve found this useful as although I prefer a bikini or tankini I’ve struggled to find anything in store since Covid, and don’t want to get into the endless return cycle. I’ve currently got an old lady swimsuit that I bought from a charity shop which covers me but not stylish.

BreatheAndFocus · 25/06/2024 13:50

Mudonstairs · 24/06/2024 12:02

I feel like the board shorts look to try hard on me. Like I am trying to look like a surfer when I would never do such a thing! 😂

I was going to suggest something like these shorts with a coordinating bikini top:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Boyshort-Swimsuits-Swimming-Costumes-Swimwear/dp/B0CQNTPRWR/ref=asc_df_B0CQNTPRWR/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=697222622325&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9104034701769658714&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=t&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1006879&hvtargid=pla-2294307833685&psc=1&mcid=9065d6ff699a3ebbb55fbdb66f64d0e6&gad_source=1

If not, buy what’s often called a Sports costume. I have one. Yes, it’s a one-piece but it covers my whole bum and isn’t too high cut around my lower half.

Failing that, just get some ‘boys’ swim shorts and wear with a bikini top, or, indeed, do what I used to do as a self conscious teen and wear a nice bikini with a pair of normal shorts over the top. I found I could swim in them fine and they dried off OK.

Womens Two Piece Rash Guard Set Long Sleeve Swim Shirt with Boyshort Surfing Bathing Suit Swimsuits Ladies Swimming Costumes Elastic Swimwear : Amazon.co.uk: Fashion

Womens Two Piece Rash Guard Set Long Sleeve Swim Shirt with Boyshort Surfing Bathing Suit Swimsuits Ladies Swimming Costumes Elastic Swimwear: Free UK Shipping on Orders Over £10 and Free 30-Day Returns on Selected Fashion Items sold or fulfilled by Am...

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Boyshort-Swimsuits-Swimming-Costumes-Swimwear/dp/B0CQNTPRWR/ref=asc_df_B0CQNTPRWR?gad_source=1&hvadid=697222622325&hvdev=t&hvlocphy=1006879&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9104034701769658714&hvtargid=pla-2294307833685&linkCode=df0&mcid=9065d6ff699a3ebbb55fbdb66f64d0e6&psc=1&tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-style-and-beauty-5104126-am-i-the-only-one-that-hates-womens-swimwearbeachwear-options

Mumofoneandone · 25/06/2024 14:00

BellyPork · 24/06/2024 11:34

Try this site www.walkonbeach.co.uk/

Site looks amazing but Trustpilot reviews need looking at before you order!

ilovesushi · 25/06/2024 14:05

Yes, I feel your pain! I've been looking online and anything I think looks okay costs a fortune.

Deakin and Blue keep popping up on my facebook feed. They look like they have a bit more coverage. I like the way the women look like they actually do sea swimming/ wild swimming.

Bignanna · 25/06/2024 14:08

Mudonstairs · 24/06/2024 22:25

I’m not sure I’m a fan. I don’t think I’m fond of the cycling short/leggings kind of material. Im having a look at all the links people have posted and so far im liking the Fat face board shorts

I think those could tempt me, bit pricey though.

Sahara123 · 25/06/2024 14:23

BellyPork · 24/06/2024 11:34

Try this site www.walkonbeach.co.uk/

That’s a really nice website Thank you !

Morethantimeandmorethanlove · 25/06/2024 14:36

Walk on beach are getting mainly bad reviews on Trustpilot and returns are to the USA it is claimed.

cointos · 25/06/2024 15:39

All the major surf brands do cute board shorts you could pair with a tankini top. I had to buy some after I snorkelled so much that I burnt my arse cheeks in normal bikini bottoms 🤣

dunkdemunder · 25/06/2024 15:50

@Mudonstairs

PeonySeasons
Do you mean this sort of thing? Speedo Women's Hyperboom Splice Legsuit Quick Drying Training Fitness Chlorine Resistant Swimsuit (pack of 1) https://amzn.eu/d/08KjXieEE***

I just think why do we have to be subjected to so many cut outs? Men don’t have to. I like being feminine but why does looking feminine equate to showing more flesh?
You mean the back showing? Is this revealing cut out for you? I don't see that as revealing. You reference men, they usually have no top part at all. I don't think most people consider seeing the middle of their back particularly revealing.
The strap arrangement on the back allows for free arm and shoulder movement. Are you looking for something that literally covers you from neck down back and front? Like a short wetsuit? That requires a zip and is a completely different kind of garment. Maybe look in surf shops?

ArseholeCatIsABlackAndWhiteCat · 25/06/2024 16:13

I don’t understand why there aren’t as many nice more modest options out there for women and girls. Most people complain that young women shouldn’t feel pressured to dress a certain way or grow up too fast, but what choice do they have when they go out to the shops and that’s all they see🤷🏻‍♀️

That's my biggest pet peeve. Online I can find most things using various combinations of words, but finding what I want/need in shops is a real pain in the arse(pun intended). Even worse when shopping for pre teen DD . They're either too revealing (by her standards), toddler like/prints or plain/boring/sporty.

Decafflatteplease · 25/06/2024 16:13

I wear a sort of rash vest and swim leggings.

Dailydiving · 25/06/2024 18:07

I have this skort in both black and white (I like the black the best).

https://www.ebay.com/itm/156012027995

The waist actually comes up quite a bit higher than this on me. I wear it with different bikini tops and always get complements.

And I'm 100% with you. I don't know why there isn't more demand for swimwear that's actually flattering.

I used to live somewhere where locals would wear shorts/skorts and vest style stuff to the beach and they seemed so much more comfortable than the bit of the beach where all the Europeans in bikinis were...

Women Lace Crochet Skirted Bikini Bottom Swimsuit Short Skort Swim Skirt+Briefs | eBay

Skirted swim skirt with attached triangle brief for a flattering fit. Crochet lace hollow out swimsuit tankini bottom swim skirt, lace crochet overlay design giving it a mysterious feminine vibe. XXL 88cm/34.64" 65.2cm/25.66" 29cm/11.41".

https://www.ebay.com/itm/156012027995

Sahara123 · 25/06/2024 18:12

Morethantimeandmorethanlove · 25/06/2024 14:36

Walk on beach are getting mainly bad reviews on Trustpilot and returns are to the USA it is claimed.

Ah. Maybe not so great , thank you !

MustBeThursday · 25/06/2024 18:45

Years ago, I used to get mix and match 2 pc swim stuff from BHS. It was great, several top and bottom options Inc shorts and swim skirts in the same colour/pattern so you could get what worked best. Matalan used to do similar. Recently after lots of searching for swim stuff with shorts and finding mostly sporty ones which weren't flattering at all or the short version of board shorts which I always find ride up I got a decent tankini off Amazon, they have quite a lot of swim dresses/tankinis with tighter shorts instead of tiny knickers.