As a woman over 65, you know the struggle to find swimwear that combines style, comfort, and proper coverage. After years of trial and error, I’ve discovered the best bathing suits that actually work for our bodies and boost confidence.
I’ll share my top recommendations for bathing suits for elderly women that look flattering while providing the support and coverage we need. These swimsuits for senior ladies blend function with style – no compromise needed.
Table of Contents
Why Regular Swimwear Often Doesn’t Work for Women Over 65
Most mainstream swimwear simply isn’t designed with our needs in mind. As we age, our bodies change, and so do our comfort requirements.
Common issues include:
- Inadequate bust support
- Insufficient tummy control
- Too revealing or low-cut styles
- Uncomfortable materials that irritate sensitive skin
- Limited mobility from tight, restrictive designs
The good news? Brands have finally caught on, creating bathing suits for mature women that address these concerns while keeping us looking stylish.
Top Features to Look for in Swimwear After 65
Supportive Construction
- Flattering surplice V-neckline
- Full coverage design
- Adjustable straps provide a customize fit
Proper support is non-negotiable in swimwear for older ladies. Look for:
- Built-in bra cups or shelf bras
- Wide, adjustable straps that don’t dig into shoulders
- Underwire options (if comfortable for you)
- Molded cups for shape and support
The Aqua Green Women’s Slimming V-Neck One Piece on Amazon offers exceptional support with adjustable straps and a built-in shelf bra.
Modest Coverage Options
- Black swim dress for women: This one-shoulder bathing suit combines the design of a swim dress and functions of a pinup one piece swimsuit to make you more fashionable and flattering.
- One shoulder one piece swimsuits: Wide and adjustable shoulder straps, built-in brief and elastic fabric provide you with a sense of security and comfort.
- Tummy control 1 piece swimwear: This modest one-piece swimsuit with skirt is long enough to show your long torso while covering, making you look slimmer.
Many women over 65 prefer more coverage while still looking fashionable. Great options include:
- Swim dresses with flattering skirts
- High-neck designs for chest coverage
- Boy shorts or skirted bottoms
- Tankinis with longer tops
The Tempt Me Women’s Skirted One Piece provides excellent coverage with an attractive design that doesn’t look matronly.
Tummy Control
- Tummy Control: Ruched Design Fully Covers The Belly And Offers Necessary Support To Show Your Curves.
- One Shoulder: Full Coverage Feature Could Avoid Exposure On The Beach. The Modest Bottom Could Show Your Good Shape.
- Occasions: This Women One Piece Swimwear Is Perfect For Swimming Pools, Beach Sports, Vacations, Sunbathing, Or Any Water-Based Party Occasion.
Swimsuits with tummy control panels help smooth the midsection without feeling restrictive:
- Look for ruched fabric across the stomach
- Mesh control panels for gentle support
- High-waisted bottoms for two-piece lovers
- Strategic color blocking to create a slimming effect
The Grace Karin Control Swimwear features excellent tummy control without sacrificing comfort.
Comfortable, Quality Materials
- Block the Burn: UPF 50+ protection blocks up to 98% of the sun’s harmful rays
- Repreve Certified Recycled Content
- HydroBra: High Support Bra with Powerful Mesh, Removable Cups and Plush Elastic
As we age, skin becomes more sensitive, making fabric choice crucial:
- Soft, chlorine-resistant materials
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Quick-drying fabrics
- Four-way stretch for mobility
The Speedo Women’s Chlorine Resistant Swimsuit offers both sun protection and chlorine resistance – perfect for regular swimmers.
🏆Best Styles of Bathing Suits for Women Over 65
1. Slimming One-Piece Swimsuits
- Look 10 lbs. lighter in 10 seconds® with Miraclesuit. Our exclusive Miratex® fabric slims and slenderizes without panels or linings for total full body shaping & control.
- Miratex® fabric provides all over body control, shaping and slimming your figure with over twice the shaping power of regular Lycra. Underwire bra accentuates your bustline but won’t ever reveal too much.
- Cleverly draped fabric conceals tummy, hiding trouble spots and providing a curvy hourglass shape. Flat front design offers smooth shaping.
One-piece bathing suits remain the most popular option for women over 65, offering security and coverage while swimming.
Top recommendation: Miraclesuit Women’s Swimwear features innovative fabric that provides amazing shaping without uncomfortable compression.
2. Swim Dresses for Older Women
- Fabric: Crafted from 83% Polyester & 17% Spandex, This plus size swim dress is offering moderate elasticity for a comfortable and durable fit. Perfect for women’s swimwear that combines style and functionality.
- Vintage Swimdress with Skirt: This retro one-piece swim suit features a flattering V-neck design with a front bowknot detail to enhance your bust. The wide straps provide shoulder support, while the built-in safety shorts under the skirt ensure modest coverage
- Shaping Swimsuit: Designed with tummy control, this swim dress built-in shorts offer for full coverage and modesty. The wireless, removable padded cups offer customizable support and all-day comfort, whether you’re swimming or lounging, making it ideal for shaping your body, making you look slimmer.
Swim dresses combine the coverage of a one-piece with a flattering skirt that skims the hips and thighs.
Top recommendation: Ecupper Women’s Swimdress provides excellent thigh coverage with a feminine silhouette.
3. Tankinis with Mix-and-Match Options
- Material:This two piece women swimsuits is made of 82 Nylon + 18% Spandex. Classy high quality fabric, soft material, stretchy, breathable, lightweight and comfortable. Sizes are smaller than average, recommend you to get a larger size.
- Tie Front Tankini Tops: This modest tank top with ruffled design which could hide your imperfection and adorably contours your curves. Concealed little tummy makes you look more graceful. The butterfly tie design spice the bathing suit up.
- Security Boy Shorts: Boy shorts with elastic band make it comfortable to wear and show your perfect hips and legs lines. Full coverage brings you a sense of security.
Tankinis offer the convenience of a two-piece with the coverage of a one-piece:
- Easy bathroom access (a practical consideration!)
- Mix different sizes for top and bottom
- Adjustable coverage based on activities
Top recommendation: Septangle Women’s Tankini Set features multiple style options with tummy control and modest coverage.
4. High-Waisted Two-Piece Sets
- Sizes(recommend):Small:US2/US4 Medium:US6 Large:US8 X-Large:US10 XX-Large:US12 XXX-Large:US14 XXXX-Large:US16/US18
- Hand Wash Cold, Line Dry;Polyester Spandex Swimsuit Fabric
- Falbala, Crisscross hollow out backless style, , High-waisted and removable padding bra
For those who enjoy a two-piece but want more coverage than a traditional bikini:
- High-waisted bottoms that sit at the natural waist
- Fuller coverage on the backside
- Tops with supportive straps and underwire
Top recommendation: Cocoship Retro High Waisted Swimsuit combines vintage style with modern support features.
5. Post-Mastectomy Swimwear
- Florida full bodice swimsuit in a flattering black and white color combo – boasting a major comeback with its elegant all-over palm leaf print
- High neckline with a medium back height
- Adjustable, comfortable straps in the back with black side panels for a defined slimming effect
For breast cancer survivors, specialized swimwear with pockets for prosthesis provides confidence:
- Bilateral or unilateral pockets
- Higher necklines for scar coverage
- Comfortable, non-chafing materials
Top recommendation: Amoena Women’s Mastectomy Swimsuit provides excellent support with discreet pockets for breast forms.
🏆Best Bathing Suits for Specific Body Concerns
For Apple Shapes (Fuller Middle)
- Feature: Dokotoo one piece swimsuit comes with Color Block, Double Adjustable Straps, Scoop Neck, High Waist, Sleeveless, Tummy Control, Removable…
- Double adjustable shoulder straps and removable padded bra cups provide optimal support, ensuring maximum comfort. The skirt hem provides coverage…
- The tummy control one-piece swimwear discreetly conceals the tummy while accentuating curves, offering a sleek and flattering silhouette. Its design…
Look for suits with:
- Empire waistlines
- Strategic ruching across the midsection
- A-line swim dresses
- Solid colors or vertical patterns
The Dokotoo Women’s Tummy Control Swimdress features clever design elements that flatter an apple shape.
For Pear Shapes (Fuller Bottom Half)
- Modest high neck two piece bikini sets feature adjustable shoulder straps
- Wire free crop bikini top with removable paddings for more comfortable
- Paired with mid waist smooth stretchy bottom,flattering and no irritation
Consider:
- Attention-grabbing tops with details
- Solid dark bottoms
- A-line swim skirts
- High-waisted bottoms with tummy control
The CharmLeaks Women’s Athletic Two-Piece offers a sporty look with a flattering cut for pear shapes.
For Those Needing Bust Support
- Tummy Control One Piece Bathing Suit: Ruched details smooth the belly and help create a slender waistline, sculpting a flattering silhouette.
- One Piece Swimsuit for Women: This one piece bathing suit combines a stylish V-neckline with a chic twist front detail that elongates the neck and adds a touch of elegance. The low back design elongate the torso and provide a hint of sexy allure.
- Push Up Swimsuits for Women: Removable padding and adjustable straps allow customized fit, keeping you secure and confident. This full coverage swimsuit is suitable for women with long torsos, including ladies, maternity, moms, girlfriends, teen girls, and juniors, etc.
Prioritize:
- Underwire construction
- Built-in soft cups
- Wide, adjustable straps
- Halter styles for lifting
The Holipick One Piece Swimsuit – Push Up provides exceptional support for larger busts with sizes up to H cup.
Where to Shop for Bathing Suits for Women Over 65
Online Options
Shopping online offers privacy and a wider selection:
- Amazon – Expansive selection with helpful customer reviews
- Lands’ End – Known for quality construction and inclusive sizing
- Woman Within – Specializes in plus sizes with age-appropriate styles
- Swimsuits For All – Wide range of sizes and styles
In-Store Options
If you prefer trying before buying:
- Macy’s – Good selection of brands like Miraclesuit
- JCPenney – Affordable options in inclusive sizes
- Dillard’s – Higher-end options with personalized service
How to Care for Your Swimsuit to Make It Last Longer
Proper care extends the life of your investment:
- Rinse immediately after swimming (especially in chlorine or salt water)
- Hand wash in cold water with mild soap
- Never wring or twist – pat with a towel instead
- Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight
- Rotate between multiple suits if possible
Final Thoughts on Finding Confidence in Swimwear After 65
Age should never limit our enjoyment of swimming, beach days, or poolside relaxation. The right bathing suit for older ladies can make all the difference in how we feel.
Remember that comfort shouldn’t mean sacrificing style. Today’s swimsuits for senior ladies offer both, allowing us to feel confident and comfortable while enjoying water activities.
I hope my recommendations help you find the perfect bathing suits for women over 65 that make you feel fantastic. After all, confidence is the best accessory you can wear with any swimsuit!
FAQ
What type of bathing suit is most flattering for women over 65?
One-piece suits with ruching and tummy control offer the most flattering fit. Swim dresses and tankinis with high-waisted bottoms provide excellent coverage while highlighting your best features. Look for proper support and strategic design elements like vertical patterns.
How can I find a swimsuit that hides my tummy?
Choose suits with built-in tummy control panels, ruched fabric, or strategic patterns. Empire waistlines draw attention upward, while darker bottom colors create a slimming effect. Miraclesuit and Coastal Blue offer excellent tummy control options.
What’s the best swimsuit material for sensitive older skin?
Soft nylon/spandex blends with 10-15% spandex provide gentle stretch without irritation. Chlorine-resistant fabrics work well for pool swimmers. Always choose UPF-rated materials for added sun protection, which is crucial for mature skin.
Are there bathing suits designed for women who’ve had mastectomies?
Yes! Amoena, Land’s End, and Anita make post-mastectomy swimwear with pockets for breast forms. These suits feature higher necklines, secure pockets, and non-chafing materials while looking stylish and modern.
What’s the average price range for quality swimwear for older women?
Expect to pay $60-$150 for quality suits with proper support features and durable materials. Watch for end-of-season sales when premium options often sell for 30-50% off regular prices.
How do I find a bathing suit with good bust support for larger sizes?
Look for underwire construction, molded cups, wide adjustable straps, and higher necklines. Panache, Elomi, and Fantasie offer swimwear specifically for larger busts with cup sizes up to H or J.
What styles should women over 65 avoid when choosing swimwear?
Skip high-cut leg openings, string bikinis, and bandeau tops that offer inadequate support. Avoid very thin straps that dig into shoulders and flimsy materials that lose shape quickly after washing.
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Claudia Faucher is a full-time fitness training expert and lifestyle blogger. She is also been a certified Les Mills BodyPump instructor for the past 5 years and a fitness instructor for over 20 years. Claudia is a personal trainer and creates fitness training programs for seniors and people of all ages. She likes to use her skills and experiences to help others on their fitness journeys.
Last update on 2025-03-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API