Finding swimwear that's both flattering and comfortable can be difficult at the best of times, but it's a whole different ball game with a blossoming baby bump! Whether you're looking for a sporty swimsuit to help you get in those lengths at the local pool or a stylish two-piece tankini to wear at the beach, there are some crucial things to look out for before making your purchase - especially when shopping online.
The style of swimwear, material, and any useful extra features (such as tummy support) are all important considerations, so we'll discuss each of these aspects in our buying guide. Paired with a list of our top 5 favourite maternity swimwear pieces, which are available at top UK sites like Amazon, John Lewis, and ASOS, we're sure to help you find something to have you really feelin' yourself - however big your bump is!
Quick List - Top Maternity Swimwear
Mamalicious
A Versatile Piece That's Both Functional and Fashionable
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Pregnancy comes with so many changes that you may not recognise your own body at times, so the idea of donning swimwear can be daunting - to say the least! Don't worry mama, we've broken down the formula for looking stunning while feeling comfortable.
The first thing on the list is to think about your preferred style of swimwear, whether that's a bikini, tankini, or a one-piece swimsuit. In this section, we'll go through the pros and cons of each type. You'll be looking bumpalicious at the beach in no time!
The classic one-piece swimsuit is a great shout when you're pregnant, as it comes in many different cuts and styles. Offering a good deal of bump (and often bust) support, a swimsuit will also give you the most coverage - something that many of us find particularly important during pregnancy.
If swimming is your exercise of choice, there are some well-designed swimsuits that boast both chlorine resistance and tummy support, with shape retention material that stretches to fit your body perfectly. Alternatively, fashionistas may want to choose swimsuits with cut-out detailing or a plunge neck to emphasise their curves in all the right places.
A strapless bandeau-style swimsuit looks stylish and will work during early pregnancy, but it's unlikely to provide enough support later on and you might find yourself feeling self-conscious as your bust size increases. Selecting a one-piece based on your body type and how far along you are will hence ensure that you feel your best while soaking up those rays!
If you tend to feel a little restricted in a swimsuit, or you simply like the look of a two-piece, it's worth considering a tankini. This kind of swimwear set typically includes a vest-style top and bottoms, so it covers your tummy but shouldn't feel too tight.
There are many styles of tankini to choose from, including those with a halterneck top, maximum coverage briefs, or easy nursing access for after your baby is born. Plus, this type of swimwear is ideal for both before and after pregnancy, as the top and bottoms are adjustable. Total, comfy support for your bust and tummy!
As within pre-pregnancy life, the bikini is the most "daring" of the three options as it offers the least coverage - and usually the least support too. Some mums-to-be might therefore choose to only opt for a bikini in the first few months. Look for sets with adjustable straps, clasp closures, and bottoms with plenty of coverage to keep you feeling confident in the pool.
If a bikini is your preferred style and you want to wear one right up to your due date, go for one with an elastic bust band and high-waisted bottoms for added tummy support and comfort. However far along you are, we think a two-piece always looks cute with a bump!
Unlike other types of clothing, maternity swimwear is made from only a few select choices of synthetic materials: polyester, polyamide, nylon, and elastane (or a blend of a few of these fabrics).
Polyester is the most commonly used because it's soft yet strong, in addition to being resistant to chlorine and UV rays. If you're feeling eco-conscious, opt for swimwear made with recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles and textile waste - this helps to save water and energy as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Polyamide and elastane (also known as spandex) provide excellent elasticity for bikinis and swimsuits, which is particularly important in maternity swimwear. In fact, both polyamide and elastane can be found in fabric blends such as nylon, providing the perfect balance of durability and stretch.
There are some features that you probably wouldn't consider normally when shopping for swimwear, but that will become very useful as your bump grows. Adjustable straps, tie straps, or hidden clips on shoulder straps allow you to adapt the top half of your swimsuit as your bust gets bigger. These features can also be useful if you continue to wear it after birth and into nursing.
Pieces with a tie front, tie bottoms, or a clasp closure at the back help you to adjust your swimwear when needed and make it easier to get on or take off. Bust and tummy support is crucial in later months so opt for pieces with ruched cups or a ruched tummy area, as these give you room to grow while still providing support.
Lastly, if you plan to wear your new swimsuit or two-piece regularly, look for swimwear with high chlorine resistance technology and shape retention properties for a reliable suit that takes you all the way from bump to baby!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mamalicious Russel Floral Maternity & Nursing Swimsuit | ![]() | A Versatile Piece That's Both Functional and Fashionable | |
2 | Speedo Essential Grace U-Back Maternity Swimwear | ![]() | A Sporty One-Piece From the Swimwear Specialists | |
3 | Summer Mae Wrap Front Maternity Tankini | ![]() | A Bestselling Tankini With Built-in Maternity Features | |
4 | Wolf & Whistle Cut Out Maternity Swimsuit | ![]() | Stylish, Super Stretchy, and Simple to Wash | |
5 | Wolf & Whistle Maternity Exclusive Swimsuit With Tie Detail in Leopard Print | ![]() | Go Wild With This Sassy Leopard Print One-Piece |
Mamalicious is one of the most popular maternity wear brands in the UK, so you just know that their swimsuit options won't disappoint. With tie-strings below the chest and hidden buckles on the shoulder straps, this one-piece designed to take you all the way from early pregnancy into nursing.
Made with recycled polyester, this garment is eco-friendly and easy to clean - just pop it into your washing machine with the rest of your laundry. We love how Mamalicious always manages to create must-have pieces that are both functional and gorgeous, which is why this sensational swimsuit simply had to be our top pick!
Looking for a swimsuit that focuses more on performance than style? Speedo are the experts, and their U-back maternity swimsuit has all of the usual design pros as well as some additional ones to provide comfort during pregnancy.
A stretchy band at the top provides light bust support, the low-cut legs ensure extra coverage, and shape retention technology allows the fabric to stretch to fit your body without restriction. This piece has a higher chlorine resistance than standard swimwear fabrics too, so you can wear it over and over again!
Coming in an impressive range of colourful shades, Summer Mae's wrap front maternity tankini is a bestseller on Amazon. Although it's not particularly eye-catching, it's an inexpensive and reliable option.
Most importantly, it's easy to wear thanks to some brilliant built-in features. The triangle faux wrap bust gives support and creates a flattering shape, while the ruched sides support your tummy without being restrictive. The adjustable shoulder straps and side tie bottoms come in useful over the course of your pregnancy too, while giving you ample coverage.
Maternity wear doesn't have to mean forgoing fashion - this swimsuit by London-based brand Wolf & Whistle has bucketloads of style! Featuring chic cut-out details, a plunge neck, and a clasp closure on the back, it's practical as well as stunning.
Part of ASOS' responsible edit, this swimsuit is made from a blend of fabrics including recycled polyester and super stretchy elastane. Not only that, but it's delightfully easy to wash and can simply be thrown into the machine after your swimming session!
Animal print never goes out of style and it's been particularly having a moment over the last year, so why not get your paws on this sassy leopard print swimsuit by the always-on-trend Wolf & Whistle?
The front tie detail and cut-out back evoke '80s Hollywood glamour which is sure to make you feel fabulous. Although the high-cut brief bottom is extremely flattering, the scoop neck unfortunately isn't very spacious so it'll only really work for those with a smaller bust.
So, that concludes our guide to the best maternity swimsuits available online right now. Whether you're newly pregnant or well into your third trimester, our picks are sure to help you make a splash - while keeping you comfy too, of course!
Author: Melanie McPhail
No. 1: Mamalicious|Russel Floral Maternity & Nursing Swimsuit
No. 2: Speedo|Essential Grace U-Back Maternity Swimwear
No. 3: Summer Mae|Wrap Front Maternity Tankini
No. 4: Wolf & Whistle|Cut Out Maternity Swimsuit
No. 5: Wolf & Whistle |Maternity Exclusive Swimsuit With Tie Detail in Leopard Print
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