The Most Flattering Swimsuits for Moms (Tried On by an Actual Mom)

I could not be more excited about the warmer weather. We are heading to the Turks & Caicos again this year, so I’m updating all of my very favorite swimsuits and which ones I plan on taking with me in this blog post.

If you’re like me (and you probably are if you’re reading this post!), you’re looking for cute, flattering swimsuits that are still conservative and comfortable, especially if you’re an older mom like me. (I’m 40 with a four and a one-year-old.) I don’t want anything too skimpy, and I need to be able to move around and hold the kiddos without worrying about things staying in place. I also don’t usually like anything too trendy or super cheaply made. (However, if there’s an occasion you want a fun swimsuit for, sometimes a cheaper option is best for one-time wear.)

I believe in quality over quantity, so I typically buy 1-2 nice bathing suits a year and just alternate. Again, the key here is buying suits that are simple and not too trendy. In this post, I’m rounding up the best bathing suits for moms at many different price ranges.

Don’t miss my favorite straw beach bag in this blog post.

The Most Flattering Swimsuits for Moms (Tried On by an Actual Mom)

One Piece Swimsuits

Island Goddess One-Piece Swimsuit (My #1 Pick!)

The La Blanca Island Goddess One-Piece Swimsuit is hands-down the best one-piece swimsuit for the price. It has everything you could want: a built-in bra for support, just the right amount of tummy control (especially great if you’re postpartum), and a flattering silhouette that enhances your shape. The neckline is tastefully sexy, and the bum is full-coverage. The fabric is soft yet holds you in, and the straps stay put even when you’re running after kids. It’s classic, timeless, and worth every penny. I find that it runs true-to-size (maybe a tiny bit small). I have a size 2 in this. See how it fits in this LTK video.

Stylest DreamSculpt Square Neck One Piece

The DreamSculpt Square Neck One Piece is viral for good reason. It’s designed to feel like shapewear and it does. They use luxury French compression fabric that targets key problem areas. This swimsuit is ultra flattering ( one of the most flattering one piece bathing suits I’ve ever tried), but it isn’t easy to get on and off because it’s so tight. If you’re looking for the most cinching swimsuit on the market, this is it. It’s comfortable once you’re wearing it, but I’m telling you, getting it on and off is quite an ordeal. I do recommend it, but just be aware! Size up 1 size in this. I shared a short video try-on on LTK here.

I got it directly from Stylest, because I also got the swim belt you can see me wearing below. Use code TERILYN15 for 15% at Stylest.

Left On Friday Peak One Swimsuit

Left On Friday is known for high-quality, sporty swimwear, and the Peak One-Piece is no exception (I have a full review of Left on Friday swimwear here). It’s made of a compressive yet comfortable fabric that keeps everything secure (it feels similar to activewear). The neckline is flattering but not too revealing, and the leg cut elongates your frame, but it’s not cheeky. I bought two different colors in this swimsuit for the upcoming summer, but I’ll probably only keep one since they’re the same style. I love the fun cutout that makes this swimsuit interesting but still pretty conservative. Go up one size in this. See a try-on video from LTK here.

The ONLY qualm I have is that their swimsuits aren’t lined, so I recommend getting these nippies to wear underneath. They’re waterproof and last for SO many uses. (I have a two-piece from LOF that I love, as well, which you’ll see further down in the post.)

I recently found a lookalike for this swimsuit from Quince. I’m going to order it to compare the two!

Quince Italian Plunge One-Piece Swimsuit

This v-neck one piece from Quince is simple, a little sexy, and still makes you feel extremely confident. The plunge neckline is really flattering without feeling overly exposed. I got this swimsuit in black last year and found it sculpting without being too restrictive. If you’re in between sizes, I’d recommend sizing down since it runs a tiny bit big (I got an XS). I like this type of swimsuit because you can just throw on a skirt or pants and a hat and call it a day.

Summersalt Bathing Suit

I just recently tried Summersalt bathing suits for the first time since I heard great reviews from a lot of moms, and it lives up to the hype for sure! I just got The Sidestroke style and LOVE the one-shoulder look– it’s so flattering. I also love the Seascape Sweetheart One Piece! Both pieces would be a fun addition to your resort wear!

Use code TERILYN10 for 10% off your Summersalt order!

Quince Italian Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit

This is a swimsuit I’m going to buy this year. It feels both flattering and mom-friendly without being too matronly. The underwire on this one-piece suit adds support and give shape. The fabric looks ridiculously smooth and flexible, plus the bow on the back is darling. I’m envisioning myself in the palm color at a resort, grabbing my pinã colada, and heading down to the beach to layout and read my favorite book. Yep, I’ll be ordering this for myself.

If you’re a Quince connoisseur, or have always wanted to try their pieces, I have a full Quince review I update with my new favorites every season here.

Target Scrunchie One-Piece

I wrote a blog post on the best Hunza G dupes and the Target Hunza G dupe was the winner. The one I’m linking has different straps than the one I’m pictured in (since it’s OOS currently). It’s the best balance of price, fit, and style. The crinkle fabric mimics Hunza G’s look, and the fit is surprisingly flattering. The straps still fall off a bit, but less than others (although the new one I linked has tighter straps). While it’s not quite as slimming or lengthening as the Good American version, it’s so good for the price.

Two Piece Swimsuits

Left On Friday Sunday Top and Bottoms

This Left on Friday bikini set is my very favorite of all of the two pieces I’ve ever had. The brand makes super high quality pieces that feel sporty while also being super flattering. I wear an XS in the top and the bottoms. I prefer the High Tide bottoms for a high-waist style.

My Favorite Swim Cover-ups

J.Crew Button-Down Beach Tunic

I love a simple linen button-down as a swim coverup. It feels appropriate enough to wear over swimsuits when I’m running into the clubhouse or restroom; the sleeves add nice UV coverage, and I appreciate the relaxed feel. This Beach Shirt from J.Crew is lightweight and oversized.

Short Crochet Coverup

For an affordable pick, this short crochet coverup is amazing. I love the open-back and relaxed fit. I have a size small.

Petal Pop Blockprint Bondi Coverup

For a more fun coverup, if you prefer some color or pattern, this Blockprint Bondi Coverup from Tuckernuck is both flirty and beautiful. I love the tassel neck ties, the length of the sleeves, the embroidery, and the relaxed fit. It’s almost boho-chic, but not too boho, if you know what I mean.

Sitano Riga Dress

If you’re looking for a maxi coverup, this is the one I just got. Lightweight, easy, can transition beautifully to lunch, and 100% cotton.

What Style of Bathing Suit is the Most Slimming?

The slimming swimsuits usually combine ruching, tummy control panels, and high-waisted cuts. Dark colors and vertical patterns can also help create a more elongated, streamlined look. Fabrics like nylon and spandex provide the right mix of support and flexibility, ensuring a comfortable fit (I’ve rounded up the best Hunza G dupes here). The most slimming option from the swimsuits above is easily the Stylest DreamSculpt Square Neck One Piece.

How to Hide Mom Pooch or Hiding Larger Stomachs in a Swimsuit

Since I had my c-section, my lower belly protrudes just a little bit (and sometimes it’s a pretty noticeable shelf, especially when my scar is tight from working out). While it doesn’t bother me, I don’t really want others to see it. It just feels private, if that makes sense? I wore the La Blanca swimsuit all summer last year since the ruching disguised everything. Darker colors help a lot too. Look for swimsuits with ruching, peplum details, or a wrap design. High-waisted bikini bottoms can also help by smoothing out the lower stomach area. Tummy control panels are another great feature to look for, as they offer gentle compression without being too tight.

How to Lift Sagging Breasts in Swimsuits

For added lift, look for swimsuits with built-in underwire, molded cups, or thicker straps for extra support. Stylest actually makes swim bras that you can wear under your swimsuits – they have straps that can be removed if your swimsuit is strapless, too. Brilliant, right? Halter tops and balconette styles can also provide a natural lift. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit, ensuring you get the support you need. If your swimsuit isn’t padded, I recommend wearing these sticky nipple covers. They’re waterproof and reusable–I probably get 30 uses per pair.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect swimsuit as a mom doesn’t have to be a struggle. With these tried-and-true picks, you can feel confident, comfortable, and stylish—all while keeping up with your little ones. Whether you prefer a classic one-piece, a chic two-piece, or a stylish cover-up, there’s something here for every mom.

Happy swimming and lounging! And don’t forget sunscreen! Here’s a list of my favorite non-toxic sunscreens.

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