Women's swimwear: one-piece or two-piece

One-piece or two-piece swimsuit: what to choose?

The women's swimsuit one-piece covers the bust and belly in one go: it provides good support, doesn't shift when swimming, and can be worn at both the pool and the beach. The one-piece shaping swimsuit, with a panel on the belly, sculpts the silhouette.

The two-piece swimsuit allows you to choose the top and bottom separately, in different sizes if needed, and offers more tanning options. The tankini, a long top paired with a bottom, provides the coverage of a one-piece with the practicality of a two-piece.

What swimsuit for your body shape?

For a generous bust, choose a top with underwire and adjustable straps, available in bra sizes. For a smaller bust, a triangle or a top with ruffles or light padding adds some volume.

For marked hips, a high-waisted bottom or a side-cut panty elongates the leg. For a rounded belly, a shaping swimsuit or a high-waisted bottom provides gentle support.

How to find the right swimsuit size?

For a top with underwire, start with your bra size: measurement around the back and cup size. The wet swimsuit stretches a bit, so it should be snug when dry without being constricting.

If your top and bottom aren't the same size, choose a model sold in separate pieces. For a one-piece, check the length of the torso: if it's too short, it will pull on the shoulders.

What swimsuit for swimming or doing sports?

For swimming laps or doing aquagym, a sports swimsuit one-piece with a racerback or crossback stays in place, and chlorine-resistant fabric lasts longer. For surfing or active beach days, a structured top and a good coverage bottom prevent any embarrassing moments.

A long-sleeve swimsuit or swim top protects from the sun during long sessions in the water.

How to take care of a swimsuit?

Rinse it in clear water as soon as you come out, to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen that can damage the elastic fibres. Hand wash in cold water with a gentle soap, without twisting it out.

Lay it flat to dry in the shade: direct sunlight can fade the fabric and loosen the elastane. Never leave it damp in a bag.

Which swimsuit brands to choose?

These swimsuit brands each have their specialty, from larger cup sizes to glide.

• Freya is part of Wacoal Europe; this British brand designs swimsuits up to larger cup sizes.
• In swimsuits too, Fantasie, from Wacoal Europe, focuses on underwiring for generous busts.
• Banana Moon is a French swimsuit brand with a Californian style.
• Protest, founded in the Netherlands by snowboarders, outfits both snow and beach, swimsuits included.
• Roxy, the women's line of Quiksilver, started with swimsuits for female surfers.

What types of swimsuits can you find here?

The swimsuit pieces have their own pages, to compose your set.

• The swimsuit tops include triangles, bandeaus, and underwired tops.
• The swimsuit bottoms gather panties, thongs, high-waisted bottoms, and swim shorts.
• The bikinis showcase the matching two-piece sets.

When to find swimsuits at reduced prices?

The swimsuit season is in full swing during the summer sales, the best time for discounted swimsuits. To head off to the sun in winter, Black Friday and the winter sales are other key times.

During Black Friday, the page women's clothing for Black Friday gathers the offers; during the sales, the page women's clothing sales. Outside these periods, the page Promotions keeps the discounted models, and the page new swimsuit arrivals showcases those from the new season. Fast delivery and guaranteed best prices.

Frequently asked questions

How to prevent a swimsuit from becoming transparent?

Choose a lined swimsuit, especially in light colours, and check it wet before wearing it in public. A swimsuit that has been overly exposed to chlorine or sun can thin out: always rinse it after swimming to preserve the lined fabric.

What swimsuit after pregnancy?

A shaping one-piece or a tankini gently covers and supports the belly. A top with adjustable straps adapts to a bust that changes during breastfeeding.

How to remove sunscreen stains from a swimsuit?

Rub the stain with a bit of dish soap or Marseille soap as soon as possible, then rinse with cold water. Avoid hot water, which sets the stain into the fibres.

Should you size up for a swimsuit?

No: a swimsuit stretches slightly when wet, so it should be fitted when dry. Only take the next size up if the swimsuit digs into the skin or if the straps pull on the shoulders.

Is a UV swimsuit useful?

A swimsuit or swim top with a UV protection rating protects the skin it covers, especially for long sessions in the water. It does not replace sunscreen on exposed areas.