How to Shop for Swimwear

Swim shopping can feel overwhelming because construction, sizing, coverage, and silhouette all matter. The most successful approach is to allow time, stay open-minded, and be ready to try a range of styles.

- Collapse All
How can I get the best possible experience when shopping for swimwear?
  • Plan to shop when you are not rushed so you can invest the time it takes to find what feels best.
  • Keep an open mind: the best silhouette for you today may be different than it was a few years ago or what you pictured.
  • Prioritize comfort, support, and confidence over any single trend.
  • Shop where you have access to a wide assortment and expert guidance—especially from associates trained in swimwear year-round.
Everything But Water offers a broad assortment across brands and silhouettes, plus expertly trained sales associates with unparalleled expertise in swimwear styling and sizing support.
What's a good game-day plan before you shop?
  • Avoid self-tanner or anything that could transfer to garments.
  • Wear simple underwear (or use a disposable liner provided by the store).
  • Shop when you are well rested, well fed, and not rushed—think of it as a luxe investment in yourself.
Should I bring friends when shopping for swimwear?

Some people love shopping with friends for support, others prefer privacy. Do what's right for you. A trained sales associate can also provide expert guidance and a helpful, objective eye.

What's the best time of day to try on suits?

Choose a time when you're not rushed. Swim shopping is more enjoyable—and more successful—when you can relax and try multiple options.

How many swimsuits should I try on?

There is no perfect number. Many women benefit from trying a wide variety of silhouettes. Plan to spend at least an hour and don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries to land on the one you love.

What are the most common swim shopping mistakes?
  • Buying the same size in every brand: designers vary, so focus on how it feels on your body rather than the number.
  • Choosing a suit that is too large: swim fabric relaxes slightly in water, so a suit that starts loose may feel less supportive when wet.
  • Not adjusting straps or ties: straps and ties are part of the support. Tighten and test security before deciding.
How do I measure for a swimsuit?

Each product detail page includes a Size Guide and a Fit Predictor tool, which recommends sizing based on other customers' behavior and your own shopping behavior across other apparel websites.

How to find your best size for you:
  • Measure your bust: take a loose measurement in inches over the fullest part of your bust; keep the tape level.
  • Measure your waist: measure around the narrowest part of your natural waistline.
  • Measure your hips: stand naturally with feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips (typically about 7" down from your waist).
What if I'm between sizes?

If you're between sizes, we generally recommend sizing down because swimwear tends to relax slightly when wet. Of course, follow your personal comfort preferences—what matters most is that you feel secure and confident.

Should swimwear feel tight at first?

Some swimsuits are more compressive than others, and swimwear often feels more snug when dry than when wet. Regardless, your suit should feel comfortable and confidence-boosting. Choose the level of compression and coverage that feels best for you.

Is there a dressing room test to check support?
  • Move around and walk: do straps stay in place? do legs ride up?
  • For tops, lean forward: coverage should stay secure.
  • Tighten straps, halters, and tie sides to a supportive tension—many suits simply need a firmer tie.
Swim shopping can feel overwhelming. What's the best way to shop for swimwear?

Some shoppers prefer ordering online and trying suits at home. Many women also benefit greatly from visiting an Everything But Water store—one of our most special offerings—where they can feel fabrics, try a broad range of silhouettes, and be assisted by expert sales associates with deep experience helping women find what feels best.

If shopping online, our Perfect Fit Finder™ is a tool we developed to help shoppers get to silhouettes that match their needs. Whether you shop online or in-store, leave time, be open to trying a range, and you may fall in love with more than you expect.


One piece vs two piece vs tankini: when to choose each

One piece
  • A streamlined look with built-in coverage.
  • Great for active days and for those who prefer a single-piece silhouette.
  • Look for adjustable straps if you want more control over torso length.
Two piece
  • Ideal if you wear different sizes on top and bottom.
  • Great for customization through adjustable ties, sliders, and strap options.
  • Allows you to mix silhouettes to match coverage preferences.
Tankini
  • A great option if you want torso coverage with the flexibility of separates.
  • Helpful for those who want comfort and room to expand through the midsection.
  • A smart choice for pregnancy or postpartum if additional coverage is desired.