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Flattering plus-size swimwear options: two-piece, swim shorts or one-piece?

7 replies

Jupitersdaughter · 27/03/2026 14:20

I've never bought from BloomChic before, but was considering buying some swimwear from them. The style of swimwear I would normally go for is something like this:
https://bloomchic.co.uk/collections/endless-summer-vacation/products/contrast-twist-front-skinny-one-piece-swimsuit?from_module=JUU1JTk1JTg2JUU1JTkzJTgxJUU5JTlCJTg2JUU1JTkwJTg4JUU5JUExJUI1&b_fp=MTlkMjQ5NDE5NzA1YWMtMGQzZmVlMDUzMjdmNjctYjQ1NzM1Ni0zODA2ODgtMTlkMjQ5NDE5NzEyNjg=
I was drawn to some of there 2 pieces though as more practical when going to the ladies. I also think they look great on the models. The thing is I am concerned about showing a role of flab above and would really like them to meet. An example is this:
https://bloomchic.co.uk/collections/endless-summer-vacation/products/leopard-print-ruched-tight-fit-swim-bottoms?from_module=JUU1JTk1JTg2JUU1JTkzJTgxJUU5JTlCJTg2JUU1JTkwJTg4JUU5JUExJUI1&b_fp=MTlkMjQ5NDE5NzA1YWMtMGQzZmVlMDUzMjdmNjctYjQ1NzM1Ni0zODA2ODgtMTlkMjQ5NDE5NzEyNjg=
I have big thighs and had also considered some sort of swim short. My worry is I don't normally wear shorts as I find them unflattering, though might it be better than having my entire thigh out? An example is this:
https://bloomchic.co.uk/collections/endless-summer-vacation/products/ocean-print-pockets-swim-bottoms?from_module=JUU1JTk1JTg2JUU1JTkzJTgxJUU5JTlCJTg2JUU1JTkwJTg4JUU5JUExJUI1&b_fp=MTlkMjQ5NDE5NzA1YWMtMGQzZmVlMDUzMjdmNjctYjQ1NzM1Ni0zODA2ODgtMTlkMjQ5NDE5NzEyNjg=
Or a simple one piece with shorts like this:
https://bloomchic.co.uk/collections/endless-summer-vacation/products/twist-front-ruffled-one-piece-swimsuit?from_module=JUU1JTk1JTg2JUU1JTkzJTgxJUU5JTlCJTg2JUU1JTkwJTg4JUU5JUExJUI1&b_fp=MTlkMjQ5NDE5NzA1YWMtMGQzZmVlMDUzMjdmNjctYjQ1NzM1Ni0zODA2ODgtMTlkMjQ5NDE5NzEyNjg=
Any plus size ladies tried these styles? Did you find them more or less flattering than a normal swimsuit?

48b7ca5e-0e3c-4751-b6b6-d1eec462f05a

Pattern Print Ruched Tight-Fit Swim Bottoms – BloomChic-UK

Shop Pattern Print Ruched Tight-Fit Swim Bottoms now and redefine your style with confidence at BloomChic. Tailored for mid and plus-size women. This trendy Swimwear Women, sizes 14-34. Color:Multicolor, Leopard, Rosered, Indigo, DeepPurpleRed, Black,...

https://bloomchic.co.uk/collections/endless-summer-vacation/products/leopard-print-ruched-tight-fit-swim-bottoms?b_fp=MTlkMjQ5NDE5NzA1YWMtMGQzZmVlMDUzMjdmNjctYjQ1NzM1Ni0zODA2ODgtMTlkMjQ5NDE5NzEyNjg%3D&from_module=JUU1JTk1JTg2JUU1JTkzJTgxJUU5JTlCJTg2JUU1JTkwJTg4JUU5JUExJUI1

OP posts:
Mix56 · 27/03/2026 14:47

Just note that the model has a flat stomach, I think One Piece is the way to go.
(when you go for a pee you pull the gusset to one side, you dont undress)

NobodysChildNow · 27/03/2026 14:54

what size and body shape are you? I’m a classic apple and I’m an 18, with post-baby boobs and a menopause tummy, but I have good legs.

i tend to go for a style that lifts and supports my boobs to help separate from my belly. So i definitely prefer your one-piece!

I wouldn’t want a two piece that bared any midriff - I think it would create a roll of fat between the top and bottom. You can get one piece tops that are longer and have a built in bra - that may work better

Ineffable23 · 27/03/2026 14:58

I'm a size 14-16 and 12 stone and I have a two piece similar to those but it definitely looks worse than my swimsuits so I would probably stick with the swimsuits.

BelBridge · 27/03/2026 16:38

I go for board shorts and swim tops OP - look at Lands End, they’re very supportive and you can mix and match the colours

Jupitersdaughter · 27/03/2026 21:52

Thanks all. To answer some questions - I'm not sure what size I am (will need to measure myself and use the size chart). I am a size 16 in Popsy dresses (which I live in), but Popsy is very generous sizing. I've always had an hour glass figure, but post kids also carry wait on my stomach. I had an emergency C section with my youngest and now have an apron stomach. I also have a very large bust, so definitely need support there. I've had tankinis in the past, but don't find them the most flattering as where the top joins the bottoms gives a line and draws attention to my widest part. I wear dresses that come in under the bust and then go out as I find this the most flattering.

I was hoping if I sized up on the two piece bottoms, they would meet the top. Realistically though they would probably end up riding apart. I wonder about the style of the last one on the link. Part of me thinks giving a bit more coverage on my legs would be good, another thinks it might just emphasize the size of my thighs more. Maybe I will just stick with the style I'm used to.

OP posts:
Ophy83 · 27/03/2026 23:45

I don't like the shorts but love the 2-piece costume. I would say it's definitely worth trying on at least

clarabowlips · 29/03/2026 11:37

Have you considered a tankini? Long top covers the tum, high rise bottoms - looks like a swimsuit but is more flexible for movement, going to the loo etc.

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