With spring only days away, we can’t help but daydream about escaping to a consistently warm, beachy destination (or at least start planning our next vacation). Wherever your travels take you, if you plan to relax poolside, the last thing you should be worried about is feeling self-conscious in your bathing suit. Enter the tummy-control swimsuit.
The flattering silhouette is a great choice for all shapes and sizes. The style is usually made with a compression fabric that smoothes and slims areas of concern, but at the same time, also helps you show off your curves.
Whether you’re looking for a colorful tankini, a flirty swim dress or even a bikini, we consulted the pros to gather everything you need to know when shopping and rounded up a few of their choice picks (alongside some Shop TODAY editor and shopper favorites, too).
What to look for in tummy-control swimsuits
Style experts Michaela Leitz, Cassandra Sethi and Christina-Lauren Pollack all offer similar guidance when it comes to shopping for tummy-control swimsuits. Here’s what the pros say you should be looking for.
- Comfort: Sethi and Pollack say above all else, your swimsuit should be comfortable. “If it's not then you'll feel uncomfortable and not enjoy wearing your swimsuit,” Sethi notes in an email.
- Ruching: Leitz and Pollack emphasize the significance of ruching in swimsuits (and general apparel) for its ability to disguise your tummy area. “Ruching creates the appearance of a slimmer waist and a flatter tummy, kind of like an optical illusion,” Pollack explains.
- Color-blocking: Pollack and Leitz both say color-blocking is another way to create the illusion of a slimmer waist. While instinct might have you immediately reaching for black, both stylists say darker colors in general like greens, purples and blues also do the trick.
- High-quality material: The stylists agree: investing in swimsuits made out of quality materials is the way to go. Leitz recommends opting for spandex, a spandex blend or high-quality Lycra. She says the latter dries faster and is a thicker material that provides more support.
- Figure-flattering silhouettes: Sethi and Pollack suggest V-necks, halter tops and high waists as figure-flattering components for a tummy-control swimsuit.
- Underwire tops: For those with larger busts, Leitz says don’t skip the underwire tops. “They provide extra support, especially if you are swimming,” she notes.
- High-waisted bottoms: Echoing Sethi’s recommendation for high-waisted silhouettes, Leitz says she likes high-waisted bottoms because “they hold everything in and cinch your waist for balance.”
Expert-approved tummy-control swimsuits
Affordable expert pick:Suusess Women Sexy Wrap Push Up One Piece Swimsuit
- Comfortable
- Chic
- Can wrinkle easily
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: 8 | Coverage: Medium | Fit: True to size
Christina Stein, a personal stylist and CEO of Style by Christina, is a big fan of this one piece that won't break the bank. Available in eight fun colors, this backless swimsuit features adjustable spaghetti straps, a removable padded bra and a plunging neckline.
Vintage vibes: Sovoyntee Tummy-Control Boyleg Ruched Swimsuit
- Comfortable
- Flattering
- May run large
Sizes: S-3X | Colorways: 19 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Sethi recommends this budget-friendly bathing suit from Amazon. “This suit is so flattering. I have a new baby and really wanted something cute that would make me feel confident even with my mom bod,” raved one verified five-star reviewer.
Unique design: Cupshe Midnight Waves Retro Ruched Tummy Control One-Piece
- Very flattering
- Affordable
- Good material
- Top may be tight if bustier
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: 3 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
"Cupshe has some incredible tummy-control options in fun designs," says Stein. She loves that this stunning suit is a steal at only $35. Available in three unique hues, this tummy-control one piece is super chic with its halter straps and U-Wire bust detail.
Peek-a-boo detail: Shapellx Smart Sculpt Ribbed Cutout-Front Shaping Swimsuit
- Comes in multiple colors
- Size inclusive
- Great quality
- Offers mid support
Sizes: S-3X | Colorways: 4 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Stein recommends this stylish swimsuit from Shapellx. "I really prefer the modern design of this swimsuit and the ruching," she says. "It comes in four colors and is size inclusive."
Accentuates your curves: Miraclesuit Network Azura One-Piece Swimsuit
- Stylish
- Pricey
Sizes: 6-16 | Colorways: 6 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Show off your curves with this slimming Miraclesuit style. Leitz is a fan of the brand for its range of designs and says it’s worth the investment. It boasts an asymmetrical criss-cross design, a hidden underwire bra and sheer panels that create an “instant” hourglass shape.
Older shoppers on the brand’s site have sung its praises, as well, saying that they “have not felt this good in a bathing suit in decades.”
Convertible straps: Spanx Pique Shaping Plunge One Piece
- Flattering
- Limited sizing
Sizes: XS-3X | Colorways: 3 | Coverage: Medium | Fit: True to size
While best known for the shapewear, Leitz says Spanx also offers great swimwear. This one-piece swimsuit with a plunging neckline is designed to sit comfortable against the skin without digging into your legs uncomfortably, according to the brand. Plus, with convertible straps, you’re getting two different styles for the price of one!
Splurge option: Miraclesuit Razzle Dazzle Siren One-Piece Swimsuit
- Good coverage
- Stylish
- Limited sizing available
Sizes: 6-16 | Colorways: 5 | Coverage: Full | Fit: Shoppers say it’s a snug fit so size up depending on how tight you’d like it to be
Sethi is also a fan of Miraclesuit and specifically calls out this bold blue number. According to the brand, it has features like underwire molded foam cups, maximum overall coverage and all-over body control, shaping and slimming.
Editor-approved tummy-control swimsuits
Award winner: Hilor Crossover One-Piece Swisuit
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Fashionable
- May run small
Sizes: 4-18 | Colorways: 52 | Coverage: Full-coverage | Fit: Fits larger chests, according to reviewers
Available in over 40 colors and patterns, from neutrals to florals and pops of pink, this swimsuit will match any cover-up you choose to pair on top. The flattering style of this one-piece wowed commerce leadership coordinator Alexa Arent. “I feel like a lot of bathing suits are very cheeky nowadays and having a bathing suit that covers all the spots that you want covered is great,” she says.
"Great quality" swimsuit: Lilly Pulitzer Farlee One-Piece Swimsuit
- Full coverage
- Super chic and tropical
- Limited sizes available
Sizes: 0-16 | Colorways: 1 | Coverage: Moderate | Fit: True to size
“Although a bit pricey, any Lilly Pulitzer one-piece is worth the splurge in my opinion,” says associate SEO editor Allie Wise. “Not only is this swimsuit classy and feminine, but it is also extremely great quality and will last for years to come. It is also extremely flattering and almost functions like shapewear to avoid any unwanted stomach bulge,” she adds.
Tummy-control one-piece swimsuits
Budget-friendly option: Old Navy Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit
- Affordable
- Good coverage
- Sold out in most sizes
Sizes: XS-4X | Colorways: 3 | Coverage: Moderate | Fit: True to size
For a solid underwire swimsuit option, we've got our eyes on this sweetheart neckline one-piece. It looks fitted to perfection and is even 85% off right now.
Asymmetrical: Hilor One-Shoulder One-Piece Swimsuit
- Flattering
- Nice quality
- Limited sizing
Sizes: 6-18 | Colorways: 47 | Coverage: Full | Fit: Runs small
This bestselling bathing suit has a strong average on Amazon with over 17,000 verified five-star ratings. The asymmetric neckline and ruffle trim combined with a ruched center make for a trendy and flattering fit. Taller shoppers commented that the swimsuit is also suitable for longer torsos.
Shopper approved for postpartum: Upopby Vintage Padded One-Piece Swimsuit
- Comfortable
- Good coverage
- Mixed reviews on quality
Sizes: 6-18 | Colorways: 24 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Just take it from one of the 13,000+ verified reviewers who gave this retro-style swimsuit a five-star rating: “At six weeks postpartum, I had to find a swimsuit that was comfortable and somewhat flattering. If you were looking for something similar, this is definitely it. It makes me feel comfortable and it’s full coverage in the booty.”
Sleek design: Smismivo Tummy-Control Halter One-Piece Swimsuit
- Inclusive sizing
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Affordable
- Mixed reviews on tummy control
Sizes: S-3X | Colorways: 44 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
This Amazon one-piece has over 21,000 verified five-star ratings — and it’s easy to see why. Many customers love this suit for its affordable price point and flattering design. It features an adjustable halter neckline and a ruched pattern in the torso to accentuate your curves and smooth your midsection.
Retro vibes: Tempt Me High-Waited Halter Front Tie Knot Bathing Suit
- Comes in a variety of colors and sizes
- Figure-flattering
- Mixed reviews on shaping
Sizes: XXS-24 Plus | Colorways: 39 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Throw it back to the ‘50s with this halter number with 6,000+ verified five-star ratings. Delivering “great coverage without looking frumpy,” classic design features like a peekaboo keyhole and ruching add to this “confidence-boosting” option. Several shoppers also note it’s a great swimsuit if you’re recently postpartum.
Super slimming: Swimsuits for All Mesh Wrap Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit
- Stylish
- Inclusive sizing
- Pricey
Sizes: 4-26 | Colorways: 3 | Coverage: “Cheeky” | Fit: Runs small
What better way to even out tan lines than with a strapless style? A power mesh bra frame and tummy-controlling front lining ensure a flattering and slimming fit with this particular bandeau swimsuit from Swimsuits for All.
Great for water activities: Swimsuits for All Chlorine-Resistant One-Piece Swimsuit
- Inclusive sizing
- Comes in many fun colors
- May run small
Sizes: 8-34 | Colorways: 6 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
This scoop neck swimsuit is as classic as it comes, though it features many modern twists. Its Lycra spandex make retains its shape up to 10 times longer than other swimsuit materials, according to the brand, plus the interior construction is said to keep your body comfortable throughout the day. Several reviewers also noted how this is a great option to rock during water aerobics and other aquatic activities.
Underwire bra: Swimsuits For All Tie-Front Underwire Swim Dress
- Good coverage
- May run small
Sizes: 8-34 | Colorways: 4 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Looking for the perfect swim dress? Consider this bestseller from Swimsuits For All. It includes a flattering sweetheart neckline and a built-in underwire bra with removable soft cups. It also has adjustable straps and a “power mesh” tummy-control lining for a slimming effect.
Very versatile: Lands' End Slender Grecian Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit
- Comes in multiple colors
- Some sizes sold out
Sizes: 4-24W in regular, petite, long and plus sizes | Colorways: 2 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
For a simple and flattering option, consider this Lands' End tummy-control one-piece swimsuit. It’s chlorine-resistant and is made with a Skin Care Foundation-approved UV protectant and special Lycra fabric designed to "last up to 10 times longer than suits made with ordinary spandex," according to the brand.
One-shoulder design: Miraclesuit Network Jena One-Piece Swimsuit
- Figure-flattering
- Only comes in one color
Sizes: 6-16 | Colorways: 3 | Coverage: Full | Fit: Runs small
You can't go wrong with this flattering number from Miraclesuit. A one-shoulder silhouette and mesh detailing on the torso can hug your curves in all the right places.
Tummy-control two-piece swimsuits and bottoms
Cost-effective option: Shapermint Essentials High-Waisted Control Bikini Bottom
Sizes: S-4X | Colorways: 6 | Coverage: Full | Fit: Runs small
Perfect to mix and match with your fave bikini or tankini tops, these Shapermint swim bottoms have won over countless shoppers thanks to their timeless ruched design and ample support made to accentuate your curves in all the right spots.
"I've been looking for a genuinely high-waisted swim bottom for years after not being satisfied with others that barely cover the belly button," one recent shopper said. "This one is perfectly high waisted and covers my mummy-tummy nicely, allowing me to confidently wear a two-piece for the first time in years."
Bikini with a bow: Tempt Me Two-Piece High-Waisted Bikini Set
- Affordable
- Comes in a variety of hues
- Colors may bleed
Sizes: XXS-22 Plus | Colorways: 23 | Coverage: Full coverage, high-waisted bottoms | Fit: Runs small
This pin-up style, high-waisted bikini set from Amazon features a ruched high-waisted bottom and tie-front top with adjustable shoulder straps — a must for larger chests. The bottoms are said to provide the perfect amount of coverage without the dreaded diaper effect.
Contains UPF 50+: L.L. Bean Shaping Soft-Drape Swim Shorts
- Comfortable
- Sizing is limited
Sizes: 8-18 in regular and plus sizes | Colorways: 2 | Coverage: Full | Fit: True to size
Perfect for anyone who'd rather rock something with extra flow, these high-rise swim shorts should do just the trick. Made with UPF 50+ and quick-drying fabrics, the draping perfectly masks a compressive power mesh underlayer for a flattering fit.
How we chose the best tummy-control swimsuits
We selected the best tummy-control swimsuits based on expert insights, recommendations from stylists and Shop TODAY editor-approved picks. We also looked at verified customer reviews for top-rated products.
Meet our style experts
- Cassandra is a personal stylist and image consultant based in New York City and Los Angeles. She is the founder of Next Level Wardrobe.
- Michaela Leitz is a plus-size fashion stylist and size-inclusive fashion expert based in Germany.
- Christina-Lauren Pollack is a style expert and the founder of Fashion Forward Box, a subscription-based clothing rental service.
- Christina Stein is a personal stylist and CEO of Life and Style by Christina.
