The Great Swimsuit Search

Looking for a great one-piece swimsuit? We’ve done the research.

I don’t know about your experience, but shopping for a swimsuit is absolutely soul sucking. I am a size 14-16 with a heavy bust and finding the perfect swimsuit that not only compliments my unique features but also makes me feel comfortable is often a downright feat.

I searched the internet high and low for swimsuits. Spoiler alert: I found two. I really like one and I really love another. So, before I pack all the rejects up to send back I want to share with you what I bought and why I didn’t keep it.

What Happened to Merona at Target?

Target knocked it out of the park last summer with their Merona line of swimsuits. I bought three that I loved and lived in all summer. But, Target no longer carries Merona and has since replaced it with Kona Sol which is a size-inclusive brand that I figured would have something for me. By the way, shout out to Target for advertising real women with real bodies in their online and print ads. But pump those brakes…Target is asking up to $44.99 for a bathing suit. This ask made me pause and search out alternative online brands for swimsuit options.

This year, I threw the net out far and wide in search for something new that I could wear in my backyard pool, on a summer vacation and to the beach. It must be said that I have two major requirements when shopping for a bathing suit. First, it must support my breasts. There is no triangle bikini happening here, friends. I wear a 40DD so the swimsuit must be full coverage with ample support without looking too matronly. Second, I don’t wear any swimsuit that ties around my neck as I think it is ridiculously uncomfortable.

Shopping Online for Bathing Suits

I decided to shop exclusively online this year so I can try the swimsuits on in the privacy of my own home. This also eliminates that walk of shame from the dressing room plus there are several online retailers showing up in my Instagram feed that had me intrigued.

Here is where I purchased swimsuits from:

• Target
• Amazon
• Old Navy
• Cupshe
• Lands’ End

Swimsuit Review + Finding the one that works for my body

I ordered three suits from Target (affiliate links below).

The first was a black blouson bandeau. I broke one of my rules about the strap around the neck. I could look past it because I love a blouson style and I knew I would wear this solely in my backyard for sun, swim and hot tub. Unfortunately, the fit wasn’t great for me.

I had high hopes for this one piece drape front because I love the color and felt the drape would be flattering. There were just so many problems with the draping fitting correctly. Over the boob, under the boob? Return.

This crocheted one piece looked cute online though I didn’t have high expectations because of the see-through factor. But, I really liked this one after trying it on. I don’t have abs like the model but it’s ok. Kept it. Even at $49.99.

Amazon has been a go-to for me this past year with their selection of apparel that I can get on my doorstep the next day. I was pleased to see them offer a wide selection of swimwear and while I liked the two suits I ordered, there were a few small drawbacks.

Visit Our Amazon Store for our Summer Must Haves

I ordered two similar swimsuits from the Hilor brand. First was a one-piece bandeau just couldn’t keep up with my breast. I definitely needed straps and it only came with a removable around-the-neck strap. The second was a one-piece shirred that created a beautiful illusion with its side panels. I wanted to love this one but the straps are set wide and dug into my armpits. Both were returned.

Summersalt Knock Offs at Old Navy

Megan told me Old Navy had some sweet Summersalt knock off styles at a fraction of the price. $49.99 is a ridiculous price for Old Navy anything but I ordered two anyway and threw super cash and rewards at it to bring the price down.

The black and white one shoulder didn’t offer enough support on the side that was strapless. But that color blocking does incredible tricks to the eye. Really cute but not for me. The fuchsia wrap suit was also really cute but I need a little something-something to cover my lunch baby.

Instagram Made Me Buy These Bathing Suits

I should have known better with Instagram serving Cupshe ads to me all day, everyday. These bathing suits from Cupshe were such a disappointment. The quality of the material was below average, the cut of the bottoms were too severe and the support was less than stellar. I loved the color of the burnt orange and for that I was sad to see them returned.

Lands’ End Best Swimsuits Ever

For years friends have been singing the praises of Lands’ End and I’ve said no, no, no because I thought it was too…something and it wasn’t for me. I am so glad I threw that net out wide because this is the one! This one is from the Lands’ End plus size collection and I love the one I got (mine is black and white and it’s sold out but this is the exact style). It has the PERFECT breast support and the straps are fantastic. Now, it wasn’t cheap but I found an online coupon which brought the price down significantly (it’s on sale now for $54.50).

I am so thankful to check the great swimsuit search off my to-do list before summer actually gets here. Do any of these catch your eye? Where do you shop for swimsuits? Are Old Navy and Target CRAZY for charging $50 for a bathing suit?