Each pregnancy comes with its own set of challenges, but women who are pregnant during the summer have an extra one to contend with: shopping for the best maternity swimsuits. Like maternity leggings and jeans, you could technically wear one of your standbys from pre-baby bump days—especially during the first trimester—but swimsuit brands and bathing suit designers say it’s worth picking out a suit made specifically for pregnant women.
“Typically, maternity-specific swimsuits have added fabric in the midsection, which helps achieve a better fit while your body is changing size,” says Gabrielle Carrington, a product developer for Kindred Bravely, one of the most popular maternity-wear brands. Adjustable straps are also nice to have, says Carrington, since they allow you to tighten the suit as it stretches with use and wear. Built-in shelf bras can also help everything stay supported and in place, too.
And, though it may seem counterintuitive, don’t worry about sizing up. When shopping for maternity-specific suits, you can buy your typical size while still knowing you get the extra room for your growing belly, says Carrington. (If looking at non-maternity swimwear, size up at least one size—maybe even two if you’re toward the end of your pregnancy or carrying multiples.)
To save you time in the fitting room (or a few extra scrolls if you’re shopping for a gift for a pregnant friend) we hand-picked the best maternity swimsuits. These tankinis, one-pieces, and bikinis are all made with you and your bump in mind, so you can feel more comfortable at the beach or pool, plus look stylish at the same time.
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