20 Must-Know Tips to Make Swimsuit Shopping a Breeze

3. Forgetting Proper Support

Support is often overlooked when swimsuit shopping, yet it’s one of the most critical elements for comfort and confidence. Many women choose swimwear purely for style—thin straps, plunging necklines, or delicate embellishments—without considering whether the suit can handle movement, water sports, or even a casual day of beach volleyball. According to Gaw, adjustable ties, sturdy stitching, and stable underbust seams can make all the difference, particularly for women with larger chests or those engaging in active pursuits. Underwire bras and molded cups can work for some, but they may not always be the most comfortable option—especially if you plan on swimming in ocean waves or racing down waterslides. Soft cups, thicker straps, and reinforced bands might offer a more personalized fit, ensuring the suit stays put regardless of activity level. Gaw also recommends checking how parallel the underbust band is to the floor; if it’s riding up or angled, the suit might be too loose.

4. Sticking with Flimsy Built-In Cups

Those thin, removable bra pads that come standard with many swimsuits may provide some shaping, but they often lack genuine support—particularly for those with larger busts. They can crease, shift around when you move, or even pop out in the wash, leaving you with an uneven or ill-fitting look. Mali Sananikone Gaw advises replacing them with better-quality removable pads if you need more structure, shape, or coverage. Brands like Bravo specialize in ultra-thin, yet supportive inserts that deliver a natural silhouette. If you crave a confidence boost in the cleavage department, choose padding specifically designed for that purpose rather than relying on the generic foam discs that come packaged with the suit. On the flip side, if coverage is all you need, a lightweight pad might suffice to prevent outlines from showing through. Just be sure to remove and rinse them gently after each wear to maintain shape and cleanliness.