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Quick summary
The best maternity swimsuit is the Tempotrek One Piece Maternity Suit, thanks to its adjustable tie closure and solid price point. A good maternity swimsuit will offer extra support and coverage this summer while lounging by bodies of water or relaxing on a destination babymoon.
If you plan on heading to a beach or pool while pregnant, there are two items you’ll need: pregnancy-safe sunscreen and a stylish maternity swimsuit. Sure, the latter may not ring true for every mom-to-be — I have friends who wore their favorite pre-pregnancy two piece without a worry— but when my bump made its arrival at the start of summer a couple years back, I knew my old swimsuits weren’t going to cut it.
Not only was I spending a lot of time at the pool (hey, I’m a California native!) but I was also taking a water aerobics class three times a week. Needless to say, I was forced to invest in new swimwear that not only accommodated my burgeoning belly, but also held up well after frequent workouts and washes. Luckily, I found that the best maternity swimsuits do both, and are a far cry from frumpy, to boot.
Below, I share the pregnancy-friendly swimsuits I’d order if I were pregnant again, along with those that have received stamps of approval from fellow moms-to-be in the What to Expect community. All of which will leave you feeling confident and comfortable all summer long.
How I Chose the Best Maternity Swimsuits
I relied heavily on my own experience as a mom-to-be who spent a ton of time in the water. I also leaned on notes from What to Expect’s contributing writer Jessica Booth, a mom of two who frequently went to the beach during both of her summer pregnancies, too.
But, because no two pregnancies — or bodies! — are the same, I also sought input from other moms in the What to Expect community to get a larger consensus on the best maternity bathing suits for a variety of styles and body types. That’s why, when combing through dozens of eye-catching styles, I evaluated each based on:
Sizing: While some suits are designed to match your pre-pregnancy size, I also noted when moms-to-be recommended sizing up based on trimester.
Support: Many suits have stretchy panels to hug your bump, adjustable straps and side ties. All of these components should strike that Goldilocks balance of supporting you, without feeling overly restrictive.
Price: You could spend anywhere from $20 to $200 on a swimsuit, so I provided options for a range of budgets. Admittedly, I spent more than $100 on my maternity suits (I needed something durable enough to endure a weekly workout routine!), but there are plenty of alternatives you can nab at a more affordable price point, particularly if your main activity is posting up on a pool lounger.
Style: Not every mom feels comfortable in a triangle bikini or low-rise bottoms, which is why I looked at a range of cuts, designs (swim dresses are a thing!) and coverage levels, from full to cheeky, keeping in mind that some moms want to soak up every drop of sunshine on their bare skin while others prefer to be protected from strong rays.
By doing so, I narrowed down the hundreds of options to the 20 best maternity swimsuits.
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Moms found the Tempotrek Maternity Swimsuit flattering, comfortable and budget-friendly at under $50. The swimsuit features a cross-over tie that can be adjusted to fit (and show off!) your belly. It also includes other features for added comfort, such as padded cups that you can remove if needed and ruched sides that allow for more space as you grow. The V-neck and open back allows for a little breathability, which is helpful in the summertime.
Note that several reviewers said the suit was a little “cheeky” when it came to their bums, so if you’re looking for full coverage over your bottom, this might not be the best suit for you. Also, because some moms said that it can run small, especially for those with a large bust, you may need to order up a size.
"Just got this one off Amazon, and I love! I’m 195lbs at 17 weeks pregnant & 5”3’. It’s so flattering, thick enough to hide any lumps/dimples & lots of support up top!"
"I swim laps in this one! And it's super cute if I'm just chilling at the pool. I didn't want a bikini cause I didn't want sun on my stomach, so I went with a one piece"
Best Two-Piece Maternity Swimsuit
Charmo Ruffle Sleeve Ribbed Ruched Pregnancy Bikini Set
This best-selling bikini provides over-the-bump coverage and a little flare with ruffle sleeves. And the tie knots in the front and back of the top aren’t just there for fashion; you can use them to adjust the fit (meaning this makes for a great nursing swimsuit, too!).
Some moms recommend sizing up if you’re in your second or third trimester, and one noted that the sleeves often slid down. Thankfully, though, Amazon returns make it easy to try this one on and send it right back if you find the fit isn’t quite right, yet.
"I loveeee this one from Amazon!! I was a S pre pregnancy but have grown in more places than my belly and sized up to a M. It’s fit me since 2nd trimester."
It’s no surprise Kate Middleton’s go-to maternity retailer makes an amazing swimsuit. Seraphine's super stretchy one-piece has padded cups to support your bust, and the inner bra shelf helps make way for a growing bump.
Most moms share this one is actually true to size, making it that much easier to hit "add to cart." As a bonus, you can choose from three colors, including a nautical navy, as well as a sweetly striped print. To extend its lifeline from pregnancy to postpartum, all you have to do is follow Seraphine’s specific care instructions: Gentle wash separately at 86°F and hang to dry!
Shopping for plus size maternity clothing can be limiting, especially when it comes to swimwear. That’s why What to Expect moms love MeetCurve, a dedicated plus-size swimwear brand that sells bathing suits up to 4XL. Although they aren’t specifically maternity suits, moms-to-be found that they could be worn during pregnancy. (Though you may need to size up, depending on your trimester.) This tye-dyed suit in particular offers full belly coverage, plus a flattering V-neck and low back. And, as with all MeetCurve swimsuits, this one has a shelf bra with a durable band and cups that provide support without being uncomfortable. This bathing suit also has side ruching that offers space to grow.
“My Meet.Curve suits arrived! So cute and comfortable! Highly recommend for a maternity suit. I sized up to a 2XL. They’re so flattering and cute! Such different and unique styles to what you typically see. Very well made and comfortable. These are the 2 I got. But it was hard to choose.”
Best Maternity Tankini Swimsuit
Quince Italian Maternity Two-Piece Tankini Swimsuit
By now, you’ve likely heard of Quince, the company making waves in the fashion industry with lower-priced clothes, including swimwear. And I’ve been obsessing over this chic two-piece tankini, an on-trend look with a secure fit, thanks to the compressive fabric, sewn-in cups, and ruched sides. Moms appreciate the adjustable straps, keyhole back closure, and lengthy top to accommodate a growing bump. They also like that it’s made with quality Italian-sourced and recycled materials (which, by the way, are designed to resist fading and discoloration from the sun, chlorine and sunscreen).
Fair warning, though: One mom who typically wears a small top ordered a medium, but she didn’t think it would stretch enough to last through the third trimester. She ended up ordering a large, in the hopes that it would buy her more time to wear the suit. Crossing my fingers for her!
Whether you’re already running after a little one or want a little extra coverage, a pair of swim shorts can be a great option to wear while pregnant. This Maacie Maternity Tankini is a two-piece suit with small shorts and an athletic-style top that allows you to move around without worrying about anything slipping out or moving around. It’s made of a soft, stretchy material with ruched sides, adjustable shoulder straps and removable pads. The shorts can be worn high-waisted or rolled down to sit under your belly, which you may adjust depending on your trimester. Plus, the drawstrings let you adjust the shorts as you grow.
Not into tankinis or one-pieces but also don’t want to go full bikini? Opt for a high-waisted option like Summer Mae high waisted bikini. Made of a soft, stretchy nylon and Spandex blend, this is a comfortable choice that you’ll be able to wear as you grow. It features a high waist with ruched sides and essentially provides full coverage with just a little bit of skin between the top and bottom. The more sporty style top has a U-neck with removable bra padding to help keep everything in place if you’re moving around a lot.
The unique ribbed knit fabric and buttons down the front adds some nice style to a fairly simple (cut super cute) suit. Those buttons are also functional, making this a convenient nursing-friendly swimsuit.
“I like them and bought 2 (of the same but different patterns). Can’t really beat the cost and decent quality. I am 5’6’’ and 175 lbs and got a large and it fits and the bottom. Is still very roomy at 28 weeks.”
Your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, which means a sunburn could be more likely (and more painful.) In addition to lathering on pregnancy-safe sunscreen, you can try to avoid the skin damage by wearing a long-sleeve swimsuit or rashguard. This Oceanlily Long Sleeve Maternity Swim Shirt is a highly rated option that is also versatile enough to be paired with a variety of bottoms, including ones you already own. It’s made with UPF 50 for added sun protection and has a lightweight feel that will help keep you cool despite the long sleeves. Side ruching and drawstrings mean it will grow with you without getting uncomfortably stretched out.
“girl I am a 46G prepregnancy! I ended up buying a tank-kini off Amazon. the shop is called Ocean Lily, I was able to get both pieces separately so that I could customize sizing. it was actually delivered today, I tried it on, and it fit so much better than any non maternity suit I've ever owned”
Best Maternity Swim Skirt
Oceanlily High Waist Over-the-Belly Maternity Swim Skirt
A swim skirt is another full coverage option that is both comfortable and functional. This Oceanlily maternity skirt has a high waist and fully lined shorts underneath, so you can swim or move around on land as much as you want. (There are also options without shorts, if you want a skirt to pull over bottoms you already own). Reviewers rave about how comfortable the soft, stretchy material is, especially against sensitive pregnancy skin. It’s also chlorine-resistant, so you can wear it in the pool without fear of colors fading. You can easily pair this with a tee or tank top and wear it outside of the beach as well for sweat-resistant fabric on a walk or hike.
“I have a two-piece one from oceanlily I bought on amazon, and it’s not so cute, but it’s actually very supportive, comfortable, and more modest (particularly up top)”
The versatility of this maternity suit’s top caught my eye: You can wear it as a V-neck (which makes breastfeeding a breeze) or pull the strap through to create a keyhole design. It also comes in more than 15 colorways, from classic black to fun florals. A few of the hues even feature a ribbed material for a textural statement.
While it’s received high praise from WTE community members, one mom shares that the top wasn’t quite as supportive as she’d hoped, so keep that in mind when shopping. But for $33, you’re basically getting two suits in one!
"I just got this one about a week ago and love it- it’s really pretty and doesn’t look weird on a small bump, even though there’s lots of room to grow into. Bonus is that it’s easy to breastfeed in as well!"
If you have a large bust, many What ot Expect moms recommend shopping at Torrid for a swimsuit top. This Torrid bikini top is completely wireless, yet offers plenty of support according to reviewers. You can get the best fit for your top thanks to the adjustable straps, plus the lightly lined top provides some shape without being restricting. Although this doesn’t include a bottom, you can match it with an existing one or shop around for a cheaper find somewhere else. Many What to Expect moms recommend going up one size because Torrid clothes aren’t designed specifically for maternity wear.
“Check out Torrid! I work there and we have really good swim and it’s all on sale right now. Bottoms you can probably get at Target. They have good maternity swim bottoms and I just got some in an XXL too. :)”
“I was coming to recommend torrid I have a two piece that I love that is very complimentary to my bump and just upsize my bottoms to accommodate bump… (actually have a couple tops hehe)”
“They're kinda pricey but Torrid carries up to size 30 in their stores and online. I think they just put up their collection for this year - I haven't seen it yet but I plan on getting another suit for this summer.”
Best Affordable Maternity Swimsuit
Motherhood Maternity Beach Bump Maternity One Piece Swimsuit
This cute, simple Motherhood Maternity one-piece is a great budget-friendly. The polka dot pattern is fun and attractive, while the nylon and Spandex blend fabric feels perfectly stretchy for your growing belly. And, unlike many maternity one-piece bathing suits, the sides of this suit are entirely adjustable thanks to the handy drawstrings. The straps are also adjustable for added versatility and support.
"I got a really comfortable one piece from Motherhood Maternity, it’s freaking adorable I wore it last summer when I was pregnant with my son and will wear it again this summer I love it."
“I ordered two from motherhood maternity that are comfy and flattering. Didn’t love the print options for the style, but they weren’t deal breakers either.”
This PinkBlush Waist Tie Maternity One-Piece can be worn during pregnancy and postpartum, making it a popular pick. It will easily stretch to accommodate your belly but won’t stretch out thanks to side ruching. Meanwhile, the crossover V-neckline makes it extra flatter and, for moms who hope to breastfeed, makes breastfeeding easier.
Booth wore this constantly throughout her summer pregnancy, due to the soft and stretchy fabric and comfortable fit. She appreciated that the neckline added a little style; she's always weary about a V-neck because they can be so revealing, but this one never felt that way. But the best part? She was able to continuing wearing this postpartum because, aside from the ruching, she didn't think it looked like a maternity suit.
For full coverage, a swim dress gives you a hybrid style that is comfy and cute. The split hem of this particular suit from Amazon covers your bump without restricting it, and there are both solids and tropical prints to choose from. I love that it includes a crossover and V-neck top, making it equally ideal for moms postpartum, too. Although most who made this purchase were further along in their pregnancy.
Best Maternity Swimsuit with Cutouts
PinkBlush Cutout Flutter One Piece Maternity Swimsuit
PinkBlush is a trusted brand among moms-to-be who want stylish wardrobe staples that won’t break the bank. This swimsuit alone is more proof that you don’t need to skimp on style for maternity wear. The cute cutout and flutter sleeves are the cherry on top of a comfortable fit that’s beloved by moms.
"I got this one piece with a cutout from pinkblush maternity. They have lots of other cute styles. I've been using it to take my toddler to swim lessons and it's been very comfortable in the water and the way the back straps makes my chest feel secure too"
This asymmetrical one-piece is comfortable and on-trend with its unique design. If you’re concerned about not having enough bust support with this one, don’t be: there’s a removable spaghetti strap for a little extra lift.
While there are only two colors, you essentially have the choice between something a bit more bold (a tropical pink and orange print) or goes-with-anything neutral (solid black). Most moms-to-be rave over the super flattering silhouette, but there were a few who found it a bit cheeky.
My number one pregnancy style advice? When in doubt, go for smocked dresses and tops — and the same can be said of swimsuits. This trendy decorative technique essentially gathers fabric to create stretchy pleats, so it easily adjusts with your ever-changing body.
The MOMOOD bikini utilizes this style but ups the ante with a peplum moment on top, sweetly accentuating your bump. Moms love that the subtle excess of material delivers extra stretch; one mom shares that she had no problem fitting into this suit when her bump nearly doubled in size. (Did I mention the adjustable, corset-like back that offers even more room to grow?) Plus, from a fashion perspective, the bandeau top and high-waisted bottom is a dream combo, in my personal opinion. I also love that you can score in several different colorways (I’m partial to the beige floral print!).
However, like many moms, I often need different sizes for a two-piece; typically a medium top and small bottom. Unfortunately, this one can only be purchased as a set, which may make finding the right fit tricky if you’re in the same boat.
For a classic suit that’s anything but basic, many moms-to-be spend their summers in this PinkBlush one-piece. The high leg cut is among the most popular features, and the side ruching allows your bump to expand from trimester to trimester.
There’s a lot to love about this suit, but some moms mention that the leg openings were on the tighter side and sometimes felt restrictive.
"I knew I'd be swimming a lot my last pregnancy over the summer so I got this one and love it! fit me postpartum and all through pregnancy (gained 55 lbs so lots of stretch variation)"
Best Ribbed Maternity Swimsuit
Summer Mae Ribbed Pregnancy Swimsuit With Adjustable Hip Ties
The WTE community forums have been flooded with moms-to-be asking if Summer Mae is worth the hype — and plenty have confirmed these lower-priced suits exceeded their expectations. This particular design received a bunch of praise for the stretchy ribbed material and adjustable side ties to give your bump more room throughout the summer months.
Most reviews in the WTE community give the brand five stars, but a few moms warned that it’s tighter in the bust and perhaps best for those who don’t need as much support up top.
"I would HIGHLY highly recommend Summer Mae!!! All the suits are in the $30-$40 range and you can get them through Amazon. There are so many different styles to choose from, I love the variety and might get 1 or 2!! I personally like 1 pieces but there are so many bikinis as well. These are my favorites and there are so many more :)"
"I ordered 4, 3 one-piece and 1 two-piece. All the one-piece ones fit so well! Which is truly shocking to me because not pregnant I can’t find a one-piece to fit my body type."
OK, here me out: Hunza G suits are incredibly pricey and only come in one, non-maternity size — but I’d totally recommend them for moms-to-be. I purchased one about one year postpartum and have never felt more comfortable in a swimsuit. There’s something magical in their signature crinkle material, and I’m not the only one who thinks so. It made our list because there were so many moms in the WTE community who invested in this one-piece and found that it expanded during pregnancy and comfortably fit postpartum, too. Sort of like our favorite non-maternity maternity leggings.
It’s more than understandable if you’re not willing to splurge, and some moms said it didn’t provide enough bust support.
"I got a Hunza G one piece for our baby moon in Hawaii and I adore it. The brand only makes ‘one size’ swimwear so the material is extremely stretchy and flattering. It’s expensive but I like that it will fit me after too. (For reference I am a size 8/10, 34D pre pregnancy and my chest is now a 36DD and the fit is great)"
"I swear by the Hunza G swim suits. To be honest, not a ton of chest support but I am larger chested and have never felt better in a swimsuit. (I typically have a hard time finding a swimsuit that fits my chest/waist area) It’s pricey, but I wore it throughout my last pregnancy and still wear it after! Extra bonus that they are comfortable!"
"They’re pricey but they’re so dang comfy. Easily my fave swimsuit and it will still fit even after birth. They’re one size fits all. I have the strapless one piece and I live in this thing lol"
What to look for in a maternity swimsuit
According to my own experience testing and buying maternity swimsuits, plus the experience of Booth and numerous What to Expect moms, here are the most important factors to consider in a maternity swimsuit:
Comfort: Your maternity swimsuit should make you feel comfortable, especially as your body changes. Many one-piece maternity swimsuits feature ruched sides that offer more space as you grow, something Booth found helpful during her second pregnancy when her bump reached its max by the end of summer. You may also want to look for two-pieces with adjustable straps and bottoms, so you can change the fit as needed.
Support: Those same straps that can be adjusted for size can also be adjusted to provide extra support to your growing breasts. Additionally, you might want to look for bathing suit tops with underwire for extra support.
Functionality: Maternity swimsuits should be easy to wear and, ideally, make your life more convenient. If you’re giving birth during the summer, look for a maternity swimsuit that doubles as something you can wear while nursing to get the most out of your money.
Material: Most expecting moms do not want a bathing suit that is too tight or restrictive on their bump. Instead, look for options made with stretchy material like nylon, spandex or a mix of the two, providing just enough stretch to grow with you and your belly, but not too much that it’ll wear out. And because your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy, you may want to look for swimsuits with a UPF 50 or more for extra protection.
FAQs
When should I start wearing maternity swimsuits?
You can start wearing maternity swimsuits whenever you feel you need them — even if your belly hasn’t really grown yet. Although maternity swimsuits are designed to stretch and offer some extra comfort while your belly grows, they can also be worn before you’re really showing, in case you need a little extra room from features like side ruching and adjustable tops and bottoms.
Can you wear normal swimsuits while pregnant?
Whether or not to wear your pre-pregnancy swimsuits depends on your comfort level and what you’re looking for out of a bathing suit. Some expectant moms are just fine with wearing their pre-pregnancy two-piece suit or even a one-piece that is extra stretchy. Maternity swimsuits are designed with bumps in mind, however, so they’ll have specific features to support your body, such as side ruching, adjustable drawstrings, built-in shelf bras and more. You may also choose to wear your pre-pregnancy suit if you’ll only be in your first trimester while wearing it, but may want to opt for a maternity-specific one if in your late second or third trimester.
How do I size maternity swimsuits?
Just like maternity clothes, maternity swimsuits should generally match your pre-pregnancy size. However, be sure to check the size chart and do some measuring if needed. Also, consider where you are in your pregnancy and how much room you think you need. You may feel more comfortable going a size up.
Where are the best places to buy maternity swimsuits?
Aside from the retailers listed above, What to Expect moms and moms-to-be have also had success finding bump-friendly bathing suits at Target (it carries popular brands such as Cupshe and Ingrid & Isabel), Walmart and Old Navy).
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