The Best Swimsuits for Older Women

Whether you're planning a dreamy tropical getaway, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying a sunny beach day with the family, you deserve to always feel confident in your swimwear. For women over 50 years old, it's all about combining comfort and support, along with your personal style. We've done the work to bring you the best options for summer — from chic one-pieces to flattering tankinis and swim dresses, just to name a few. These picks are guaranteed to make you look and feel your absolute best. Discover the swimsuit trends that will have you embracing the summer sun with confidence.

1. Classic One-Piece Swimsuits

A classic one-piece swimsuit will never go out of style, and you’ll have it for years to come. These suits offer excellent support and moderate-to-full coverage while highlighting your natural curves. With a variety of designs, from sleek and simple to elegantly detailed, there's a one-piece for every body type and style preference. Perfect for swimming, lounging, or activities such as beach volleyball, these swimsuits prove that sophistication never goes out of fashion.

• Summersalt The Sidestroke One Piece Swimsuit
• J.Crew Scoopneck One-Piece Swimsuit in Stripe
• Miraclesuit Must Haves Oceanus One Piece Swimsuit
• Hermoza Genevieve One-Piece Swimsuit

2. Swim Dresses and Skirts

Swim dresses and skirts are becoming more and more popular and appearing in so many different collections. No longer are they seen as frumpy! These swimsuits offer full coverage with a cute skirted bottom that provides a feminine and flirty look. They’re perfect for women who want a little extra coverage around the hips and thighs, especially since they come in various lengths and styles.

• Summersalt The Ruched Swim Skirt
• Johnny Was Flamingo Wrap Skirted One Piece
• Spanx Pique Shaping Plunge Swim Dress
• Old Navy Side-Tie Swim Dress

3. Tankinis

Tankinis combine the best of both worlds: the coverage of a one-piece with the convenience of a two-piece. They’re ideal for women who want to cover their midsection while still enjoying the ease of a two-piece, and they come in various styles, from loose, flowy tops to more fitted options depending on your confidence level. Look for designs with built-in bras and adjustable straps to ensure a perfect fit.

• Draper James Tankini Top
• La Blanca Island Goddess Halter Tankini Top - Black
• Tommy Bahama Island Cays Cabana Ruffle Tankini Top
• Spanx Pique Longline Flounce Swim Top

4. Tummy-Control Swimsuits

Tummy control swimsuits are designed with special panels or fabrics that smooth and shape the midsection, providing a more contoured look. Despite their shaping capabilities, these swimsuits are designed to be comfortable for all-day wear, providing support without feeling restrictive. Tummy control features can be found in a variety of swimsuit styles, including one-pieces, tankinis, and high-waisted bikinis, promising an option for everyone.

• Boden Santorini Halterneck Swimsuit
• Miraclesuit Super High Waist Swim Bottom
• Cuup The Scoop One-Piece
• Left On Friday Hi Tide Bottom

5. Ruched or Shirred Fabrics

Ruching, also known as shirring, is a design technique that involves gathering fabric to create a textured, draped effect. This can help camouflage any areas you feel less confident about, and it adds a stylish touch to boot. The gathered fabric can visually shape the body, creating a “smoothed-out” appearance, similar to shapewear. For those who prefer more coverage, ruched one-pieces have plenty.

• Kate Spade New York Bow Shoulder Tie One-Piece
• J.Crew Ruched Squareneck One-Piece Swimsuit
• Sea Level Twist Front Multifit One-Piece Swimsuit
• Norma Kamali Bill Ruched Bikini Briefs

6. High-Waisted Bikinis 

Go for a sexier style you’ll still feel good in with a flirty two-piece. This year’s bikinis are supportive and comfortable but still allow you to show off some skin. Tops are adjustable with tie fronts and molded cups, and bottoms are high-waisted and retro-style to create a curve to your body whether you have one naturally or not. 

• Swimsuits for All Confidante Bra Sized Underwire Bikini Top and Shirred High Waist Swim Brief
• Miraclesuit Underwire Plunge Bra Top and Norma Jean Retro Swim Bottom
• Andie Swim The Nadi Top and The 90s High Waisted Bottom
• Summersalt The Sidestroke Bikini Top and The Tie Belt High Leg Mid Rise Bottom

7. Cut-Out One-Piece 

The look of a bikini and the comfort of a one-piece swimsuit? Say hello to the sultry cut-out trend. Whether it’s a sliver of belly skin, an open back, or half of your torso, the options are endless — you choose how much skin you want to show. 

• Left on Friday Peak Suit
• Eloquiii One Shoulder Cutout Detail Swimsuit
• Lovewave Blondie One Piece
• Free People Free-est Amber One-Piece Swimsuit