I've been on a mission to find the best women's swimwear for this summer, and I tried on over 30 suits from brands like Summersalt, Andie, Aerie, and Target. I wanted pieces that actually fit well, hold up after a few wears, and look cute without breaking the bank. Here is my honest breakdown — keep it or return it.
Why These Suits Made the Cut (My Honest Criteria)
Before I share my picks, let me explain what I looked for. First, fabric quality. A swimsuit that goes see-through or loses its shape after one pool day is a hard pass. I only selected suits made from high-quality nylon-spandex blends with good recovery. Second, fit inclusivity. I looked for brands that offer extended sizing, including D/DD cup options and plus sizes. Third, value for money. Whether you are spending $30 or $150, the suit should justify the price. Finally, style that actually works in real life. I skipped anything that looks good only on a model — I want swimwear that stays in place when you swim, chase your dog, or eat tacos at the beach.
The Best Women's Swimwear for Different Body Types
I styled each suit on my frame (size 8, 5'6", C-cup) and also asked friends with different shapes to give feedback. Here is what stood out.
For Hourglass Figures
The one-piece from Summersalt (the Sidestroke, $95) is a winner. The side ruching flatters curves without squeezing. It comes in sizes 2-24, and the fabric is thick enough to smooth without compression. True to size. Keep it.
For Pear Shapes
Aerie's high-waist bikini bottom paired with the scoop top ($44.95 total) is a bargain. The bottoms hold their shape and the top offers decent support for B/C cups. Size up if you are between sizes. Return it? No, this is a keeper for the price.
For Small Busts
The Andie Malibu top ($65) has removable padding that you can toss if you want a flatter look. The fabric is buttery soft and the cut is flattering. I wore this three times already. True to size.
For Plus Sizes
Target's Kona Sol line has really stepped up. The ruched one-piece ($35) in sizes up to 26 is a steal. The straps don't dig in, and the lining is full coverage. Just note that the color may look slightly different from online photos — order one size up if you want a looser fit.
My Top Picks: Keep or Return?
Here is a quick verdict on the best women's swimwear I tested, based on fit, quality, and value.
Summersalt Sidestroke One-Piece — Keep
This is the best overall for most body types. The color options are gorgeous (I love the rust), and it stays put even when I swim. At $95, it is not cheap, but it will last multiple seasons. I already ordered a second color.
Aerie Scoop Top + High-Waist Bottom — Keep
For under $50, this set punches above its weight. The material is soft and the elastic doesn't roll. I recommend going up a size in the bottom if you want more coverage. I wore this on a beach trip and it held up after five washes.
Cupshe Cutout One-Piece — Return
Cupshe is popular, but this suit ($39.99) was a letdown. The cutouts stretched out after one wear, and the fabric felt cheap. The color also faded after two trips to the pool. I'd skip this and invest in something better.
Andie Malibu Top + Bottom — Keep
Andie's sets are expensive ($135 for the top and bottom), but the quality is undeniable. The adjustable straps and thick lining make this a long-term investment. If you have a B/C cup, this is the most supportive triangle top I have found. True to size.
Target Kona Sol Ruched One-Piece — Keep with Caution
For $35, this is a great budget option, but the sizing is inconsistent. I sized up and it fit well. The ruching is forgiving and the color selection is solid. Just don't expect it to last more than one summer — for the price, that's fine.
How to Care for Your Swimwear So It Lasts
Even the best women's swimwear will fall apart fast if you don't treat it right. Here are my tips. Rinse your suit in cold water immediately after swimming — chlorine and salt are brutal on elastic. Hand wash with a gentle detergent (I use Soak or The Laundress). Never wring it out; roll it in a towel to remove moisture. Lay flat to dry, away from direct sunlight. If you follow this routine, a $100 suit can last two to three summers. I have a Summersalt suit from 2022 that still looks new.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you want one suit that does it all, go with the Summersalt Sidestroke. It is the most versatile and flattering. If you are on a budget, the Aerie set is the best value for the price. For a splurge that feels luxurious, grab the Andie Malibu. And if you need something cheap for a last-minute trip, Target's Kona Sol works — just size up. I hope this honest breakdown helps you find your perfect suit. Keep it or return it? I think you will be keeping at least one of these.
Disclosure: Some items were gifted by brands for review, but all opinions are my own. I only recommend best women's swimwear that I would actually wear.
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