Plus Size Bikini Tops

Styles of Plus Size Bikini Tops

There are four main styles of bikini tops. Each one has unique characteristics that may affect its ability to provide lift and coverage. Some styles are great for any type of poolside or beach activity. Others work best for more sedate activities such as hot tubbing or sunbathing.

Molded Cup or Underwire

Molded cup or underwire bras provide the most lift and support of the bikini styles. They are often constructed with an outer layer of swimsuit fabric and the inner layer made of a more-supportive bra fabric.

String

This is a bra style with string on the sides and back instead of fabric. The strings are extra sexy; but, they do not provide support on the sides or in the back. Some women like the string style for hot tubbing or sunbathing and then they change into a more supportive halter style bikini top for more active times or for swimming.

Bandeau

This strapless style is excellent for sun bathing. A bandeau with a molded cup will provide additional coverage if you are full-figured and wear a C-sized bra cup or larger.

Halter

This halter top provides more support than a bandeau style. It is excellent for on-the-beach or poolside volleyball or other activities. You can pull the straps up and inward to achieve coverage and lift for your body. The vertical lines of the straps provide a flattering vertical line.

Fabrics

• Nylon and Lycra blends provide the fast drying properties of nylon and the stretch support of Lycra. Be sure the cups have enough lining to keep the fabric supportive when wet.
• Rayon and Lycra blends are a very soft fabric and make for a comfortable bikini top. Bright colors may fade and the fabric may start to break down in very hot or heavily chlorinated water such as hot tubs or public pools.

General Care Advice

Be sure to rinse your swimsuit in clear, cool water after exposure to salt water or chlorine. Air dry your suit completely after each use. This will keep the colors bright and the fabric strong. You can keep the swimsuit fresh with an occasional hand wash in a delicate detergent. Hang it up to air dry.

Selecting a Size

Every swimsuit manufacturer uses different measurements to determine its sizes. Don't just assume that your dress size is also your swimsuit size. Some swimsuits are cut small to increase the amount of support.

For the best fit, you need to measure your bust line. If you don't have a tape measure, pull a non-stretch string or tape over your bra around the fullest part of your chest. Hold the string or tape against a yardstick to determine your actual bust measurement. Compare this measurement against the specific size chart provided for the swimsuit you like.

Create Your Own Fun

Some styles and fabrics of plus size bikini tops give you the versatility of including your swimsuit as part of your plus size casual outfit. Hot days will feel cooler if you wear your bikini top under a cotton big shirt tied at your waist. Show even more skin by wearing your bikini top instead of a t-shirt under a zip-front hoodie. You can "sizzle up" your warm weather evening wear with a bikini top in a contrasting color peeking out from under your evening separates.

Consider having your bikini top made-to-order to coordinate with your plus size coverup. Several online retailers such as LoveYourPeaches can make a bikini top to your specific size and fabric specifications for about $35.

Where to Buy

• BigOnBatik.com – Ready-made and custom-made bathing suit separates in sizes 1X to 8X
• Junonia.com – Activewear styles in chlorine-resistant fabrics in sizes 1X to 6X
• LoveYourPeaches.com – Made-to-order swimwear in a wide variety of styles in sizes 1X to 6X.

More Information

• Plus-Size Bikinis
• Plus Sized Swimsuits
• Full Figure Swimsuits
• Plus Size Women's Board Shorts