Finding the perfect swim dress when you’re over 50 shouldn’t be a challenge. I’ve spent years helping women find swimwear that makes them feel confident and comfortable at the beach or pool.
Swim dresses have become increasingly popular for women of all ages, and for good reason. They offer more coverage while still looking stylish and allowing you to enjoy water activities.
In this guide, I’ll share the 11 best swim dresses for older women that combine comfort, style, and functionality.
Table of Contents
Why Swim Dresses Are Perfect for Older Women
Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s talk about why swim dresses work so well for women over 50:
- Added coverage where you want it without looking frumpy
- Comfortable support that moves with your body
- Versatile styles that work at the pool, beach, or even as casual wear
- Figure-flattering designs that highlight your best features
As we age, our bodies change. A good swim dress acknowledges this without sacrificing style. The right swim dress can make you feel confident and ready to enjoy summer activities.
🏆Best Overall Swim Dresses for Older Women
1. The Classic A-Line Swim Dress
This timeless style features a fitted top with a flared skirt that skims over the hips and thighs. The A-line silhouette is universally flattering for all body types.
Look for:
- Built-in tummy control panels
- Adjustable straps for customized support
- Quick-drying, UPF 50+ fabric for sun protection
These swim dresses work wonderfully for women who want moderate coverage without excessive fabric.
2. The Tankini Swim Dress
For those who prefer the convenience of a two-piece but the coverage of a dress, the tankini swim dress is your answer.
Key features include:
- Separate tankini top and swim shorts/bottoms
- Easy bathroom access (a practical concern!)
- Mix-and-match potential for different sizes
Many older women find tankini swim dresses the perfect balance between function and style.
🏆Best Swim Dresses for Plus Size Older Women
3. Empire Waist Swim Dress
The empire waist design defines the area just below the bust, creating a flattering silhouette for plus-size figures.
Benefits include:
- Defines your natural waistline
- Flows gracefully over the midsection
- Typically includes supportive bra cups
These swim dresses are particularly good for apple-shaped bodies or women carrying weight in their middle.
4. High-Low Hem Swim Dress
This modern style provides extra coverage in back while maintaining a stylish front.
What makes it great:
- Added coverage for the thighs and buttocks
- Creates visual interest
- Often includes shorts underneath
The asymmetrical hemline offers both style and function.
🏆Best Modest Swim Dresses for Older Women
5. Swim Dress with Sleeves
For women concerned about sun exposure or who simply prefer more upper arm coverage, sleeved options are excellent.
Features to look for:
- Cap, short, or 3/4 length sleeves
- Raglan styling for freedom of movement
- Lightweight fabric that dries quickly
These designs provide modesty without compromising on comfort or movement.
6. Swim Dress with Built-In Shorts
Nothing ruins beach confidence like worrying about your swimsuit riding up. Swim dresses with attached shorts eliminate this concern.
Benefits include:
- Freedom to move without worry
- Perfect for active beach days
- No chafing between thighs
This style is particularly good for women who enjoy water activities beyond just lounging.
🏆Best Swim Dresses for Women Over 60
7. The Surplice Swim Dress
This wrap-style top creates a V-neckline that elongates the torso while providing adjustable bust support.
Key advantages:
- Adjustable coverage for the chest area
- Creates a defined waistline
- Often includes ruching for a flattering fit
The surplice style works wonderfully for women with larger busts who need proper support.
8. Tiered Swim Dress
The layered fabric in a tiered design provides both style and strategic coverage.
What makes it special:
- Creates visual interest
- Camouflages the midsection
- Provides a breezy, comfortable fit
This style is particularly flattering for women with straight body types who want to create the illusion of curves.
🏆Best Swim Dresses for Women Over 70
9. Skirted One-Piece with High Neckline
This sophisticated style provides coverage while maintaining an elegant look.
Look for:
- Modest neckline that prevents sun damage
- Longer skirt length for added coverage
- Soft cup support for comfort
Many women in their 70s appreciate the balance of coverage and style this option provides.
10. Handkerchief Hem Swim Dress
The diagonal hemline of this style provides excellent leg coverage while creating visual interest.
Benefits include:
- Coverage that doesn’t look dowdy
- Elongates the leg line
- Often includes tummy control
This style is perfect for women who want leg coverage without a straight hemline.
🏆Best Swim Dress for Special Needs
11. Post-Mastectomy Swim Dress
Many older women have undergone mastectomies, and specialized swim dresses can help them feel comfortable and confident.
Key features:
- Pockets for breast forms
- Higher necklines to conceal scars
- Comfortable, non-irritating fabrics
These thoughtfully designed swim dresses allow women to enjoy water activities with confidence.
How to Choose the Right Swim Dress for Your Body
When shopping for a swim dress, consider these factors:
- Body shape – Different cuts flatter different figures
- Support needs – Look for built-in bras or shelf bras if needed
- Activity level – More active women need secure styles
- Problem areas – Choose styles that address your specific concerns
- Fabric quality – Look for chlorine-resistant, UPF-rated materials
Remember that confidence is your best accessory. Choose a swim dress that makes you feel good when you wear it.
Caring for Your Swim Dress
To extend the life of your swim dress:
- Rinse in cold water immediately after use
- Wash with gentle detergent
- Avoid wringing or twisting
- Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight
- Store in a cool, dry place
Proper care can extend the life of your swim dress for several seasons.
You will want to check my latest article on 13 Best One Piece Cut Out Swimsuits for All Women.
Where to Shop for Swim Dresses for Older Women
Finding the right swim dress is easier than ever with these retailers:
- Land’s End – Known for quality and excellent size range
- Swimsuits For All – Wonderful plus-size options
- L.L. Bean – Great for modest styles
- Amazon – Wide variety at different price points
Many of these retailers offer excellent return policies, allowing you to try different styles at home.
FAQ
Are swim dresses only for older ladies?
Absolutely not. Swim dresses are popular among women of all ages who want more coverage and style. While they’re particularly flattering for mature women, many younger women choose them for modesty or sun protection.
What’s the difference between a swim dress and a regular bathing suit?
The main difference is the added skirt. Swim dresses combine a traditional one-piece swimsuit with an attached skirt that provides more coverage for the hips, thighs, and buttocks while creating a flattering silhouette.
Can you actually swim in a swim dress?
Yes! Modern swim dresses are designed with swimming in mind. They’re made from the same quick-drying, chlorine-resistant fabrics as regular swimsuits. Many include built-in shorts to prevent the skirt from floating up while swimming.
What’s the best swim dress for tummy control?
Look for swim dresses with ruching across the midsection, power mesh lining, or structured panels. The empire waist and A-line styles mentioned in this article are particularly good for disguising the midsection.
Final Thoughts on Swim Dresses for Older Women
Age should never prevent you from enjoying the beach or pool. Today’s swim dresses offer stylish options that address the specific concerns of older women while looking modern and fashionable.
The right swim dress can provide the confidence boost you need to say yes to pool parties, beach vacations, and water aerobics classes. Your age is just a number—it’s how you feel that matters.
Which swim dress will you try this summer?
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 2025-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API