If you’re looking for your summer vacation packing inspo to update your 2023 swimsuit drawer, you’ve come to the right place. Swimsuits are no one’s favorite thing to shop for, yet being in one means good things – sun, pools and/or beaches, and relaxation. For vacation, they’re easy to pack and mix and match.Â
While making a midsize packing list for summer travels through Greece, France, Italy, and Albania, I’ve collected a mix of swimsuits I either have my eye on or already own and love – all well-suited (pun intended) for those of us with a little more flesh on our bones.Â
There is so little representation for us midsize ladies – representing US sizes 6-14 – that I can’t be the only one wondering what a suit will look like once it’s on. We all are blessed with drastically different body types, regardless of size. Too often, only the thinnest ladies are represented as models for swimsuits that are marketed to all. (Aside from Aerie, who gorgeously represents many different types of bodies with varying levels of flesh, pigment, and abilities. They get a pass for beautiful inclusion.)
That being said, I feel incredibly vulnerable in this post, sharing much of myself and body information that is underrepresented in marketing and occasionally outrageously ridiculed online. Today, I’m sharing the content that I wish existed in the world. For size, style, and fit reference, here’s what I’m personally working with:
- 5’9, Size 10 (30), (mostly size L or XL – brand/fit depending)
- Soft Dramatic Kibbe body type (basically an hourglass)
- Strong thighs that rub together, larger boobs that need support (34DD), some back fat that unfortunately bugs me, plenty of stretch marks, occasional endo belly from endometriosis, and several surgical scars in random places.
- Very fair complexion and appreciate sun protection.
- I’d rather be swimming than laying out so I look for swimsuits with both fashion and function.
Aerie Jacquard Plunge Bikini
I love this thicker jacquard material for this Aerie swimsuit. The bikini top straps are adjustable to ensure support, and I love that the strap across the back isn’t your typical string bikini back. The crossover bikini bottoms are ideal for snatching the waist without covering beyond the belly button. Purchased size large in both top and bottom.
SheIn Women’s 3 Pieces Graphic Bikini Swimsuit & Cover Up
This cute swimsuit is perfect for when you’re looking for a bit more coverage without sacrificing “the look.” The bandeau style top with straps is supportive, the bottoms are medium coverage as a cheeky style, and the skirt that comes with it is an awesome addition for an effortlessly-pulled-together look. This set is perfect for getting around your all-inclusive resort in style or lounging pool side with a bit of additional coverage. Runs true to size, if not a little small, so consider sizing up.
Aerie Jacquard Longline Bikini
This longline scoop swim top is brilliant for cruise days! I wore this on our Disney Cruise day in Castaway Cay. The top is both swim worthy for snorkeling and is long enough to double as a crop top for biking and exploring. Supportive high waisted bikini bottoms go easily under high waisted shorts. Purchased size large.
Kait’s Favorite Shoes for Summer Travel
Cupshe One Piece Swimsuit
I love a one piece that doesn’t look grandma. The cheeky cut of the bottom with the plunging neck and back add a bit of spice to an overall very comfortable and practical swimsuit. Originally purchased size XL, but returned for a large due to gaping.
SPORLIKE Ruffle High Waisted Two Piece SwimsuitÂ
Don’t let those shoulders burn! The bottoms are ultra flattering with ruching up front and a cheeky cut in the back. The top is your best friend on a summer vacation while not covering up too much while making sure your shoulders don’t burn. Runs true to size. Purchased size large.
Tempt Me Sporty Two Piece with High Waisted Bikini Bottoms
These wide straps are ultra supportive for those with a larger chest. Perfect suit for those looking for a sportier look! Make sure to size up by one size as the swimsuit runs a bit small.
Aerie Ruched Bikini
I absolutely love how flattering and seamless the ruched high cut cheeky bikini bottoms are. They cover about half the bum without giving you harsh lines, and the front have the ruching detail that make sure your high waisted bottoms don’t give you an awkward extra roll from tight seams. The longline ruched top is a go to because of the wide strap back and then the extra support of a wider band beneath the swim top to ensure the top seamlessly continues onto your ribcage and prevents any potential for underboob mishaps. Ordered size Large in both.
20 Pieces to Pack for Summer Vacation
Cupshe V Neck One Piece with Tummy Control
Support comes in many places with this one! The straps can adjust to support varying chest size fluctuations. It also has awesome tummy control for when you want to be a bit more snatched through the middle, along with a bit more coverage for the backside. Runs true to size.
Vintage Retro Bikini with High Waist Bikini Bottom Set
I love this adorable vintage inspired set! Hourglass shapes rejoice as this supports and emphasizes all the best parts. Offered in many different colors and patterns such as solids or polka dots to go full retro! Runs true to size.
Aleumdr Zip Front Half Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit
This is my go to piece when for the first day of a lazy beach vacation to make sure I don’t start off the week with a bad sunburn. Though this looks like a semi-wetsuit, you don’t need a different swimsuit underneath. Zip for extra coverage or leave unzipped for a bit of sexiness to a very modest suit. Purchased size large, but you should size up if you have a long torso.
