- Price Range: $$–$$$
- Return Policy: Revolve accepts returns within 60 days for a full refund and within 90 days for an exchange. Kulani Kinis website accepts returns for a full refund or store credit within 30 days if an item was purchased at its full price or with a less than 15% discount.
- Size Range: XS–XL
- Sustainability: No information at the time of publishing.
Australia-based brand, Beginning Boutique, makes a statement with bold designs and bright colors. You can stand out in everything from underwire push-up tops to plunge tops, high-waist bottoms and everything in between.
- Price Range: $$–$$$
- Return Policy: Refunds are offered on all orders received within 14 days, and store credits and exchanges are offered on all orders received within 30 days of your delivery date.
- Size Range: 0–18
- Sustainability: In 2019, Beginning Boutique changed its packaging to 100% compostable materials. The brand has also implemented upcycling and recycling programs, which have saved over 8,000 pounds of clothing from reaching landfills.
Choosing the best bathing suit fabrics
If you’re not sure how to shop, start by checking the fabric. Opt for supportive, durable materials like polyester, spandex, or nylon that can withstand multiple wears and washes without breaking down or stretching out. These synthetics can hold up to chlorine and are more likely to keep their color and shape than natural picks like cotton. Some swimsuits also double as UPF clothing, which (along with your handy sunscreen) protects your skin from the sun’s rays.
How to wash bathing suits
To wash bathing suits properly, start by rinsing them in cold water immediately after use to remove chlorine, salt, and oils. Hand washing is the gentlest method: fill a sink with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently agitate the water and let the bathing suit soak for up to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap residues. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can damage its elasticity. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and lay the bathing suit flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel up with the bathing suit inside to gently press out more water, then lay it flat to air dry, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Bathing suit sizing: How to know your size
Finding the perfect fit for a bathing suit can be a bit tricky, as sizing often varies between brands. To start, take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips using a measuring tape. Measure the fullest part of your bust, the narrowest part of your waist, and the widest part of your hips. Once you have your measurements, consult the size chart provided by the bathing suit brand. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers; consider the style and cut of each different bathing suit as well. Some designs may run smaller or larger, so it’s important to think about how you want the bathing suit to fit—snug for support or a bit looser for comfort. Many bathing suits also come with adjustable features like straps or ties, allowing for a more personalized fit.
Bathing suit types: What’s best for you?
The right bathing suit for you depends on your personal style, your needs, and the activities you have planned. For active pursuits like swimming or boating, look for styles with good support and secure fastenings. For simply lounging by the pool or at the beach, a more relaxed fit with less coverage can do. Some popular types of bathing suits include:
- One-Pieces: A timeless option that provides moderate coverage and support, usually in a simple pull-on style. One-pieces are also available in bra sizes from some retailers.
- Bikinis: Including a separate top and bottom, bikinis come in an array of different styles including triangle tops, halters, bandeaus, side-tie bottoms, full briefs, Brazilian tangas, and more.
- Tankinis: As a tank top combined with a bikini bottom, tankinis offer more coverage than a classic bikini top.
- High-Waisted Bottoms: A vintage-inspired style that offers extra support for the tummy.
- Swimdresses: A one-piece with an attached skirt, providing additional coverage around the hips and thighs.
- Rash Guards: A UV-protective athletic shirt, ideal for water sports and protection from the sun.
