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Considering that pregnancy lasts for 9 months, depending on when you conceived, there’s a strong chance that you’ll be pregnant during the summer months. Or, you might decide to take a babymoon to a warm spot before your bundle of joy arrives.
Whichever scenario applies, if you’re pregnant and planning on hitting the beach or pool, you’re probably wondering whether you should just size up in a standard-sized swimsuit or if you should opt for a specially designed maternity suit.
We’ve got the lowdown on whether you need a maternity suit and some cute picks if you decide to snag one!
- Best maternity one piece: Seraphine Front Twist Black Maternity Swimsuit
- Best maternity two-piece: The Maternity Ribbed Voyager Top and Cinched High-Rise Bottom from Summersalt
- Most supportive maternity swimsuit: Seraphine Slate Blue Supportive Maternity Swimming Costume
- Best maternity swimsuit with UPF fabric: A Pea in the Pod Ruffled Maternity One-Piece Swimsuit UPF 50+
- Best maternity swim dress: Momo Maternity UPF 50+ Colorblock One-Piece Swim Bathing Suit
- Best under-the-belly maternity swimsuit: PinkBlush Black Cutout One-Shoulder Maternity Bikini Set
- Best low-key maternity swimsuit: Old Navy Maternity Tie-Front Tankini Swim Top and Rollover Waist Swim Bottom
- Best plus-sized maternity swimsuit: PinkBlush Black Ruffle Trim Ruched One-Piece Maternity Plus Swimsuit
- Best budget-friendly maternity swimsuit: MiYang Off-Shoulder Maternity Swimsuit
- Best maternity tankini: BHome Maternity Pregnancy Front-Tie Maternity Two-Piece Swimwear
- Best maternity rash guard: Mermaid Maternity Women’s Maternity Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Swim Shirt
- Best splurge maternity swimsuit: Hatch Mallorca Bikini
- Most stylish one-piece: PinkBlush Ruffle Maternity One-Piece Swimsuit
- Best vintage-inspired maternity swimsuit: Kimi and Kai Nancy One-Piece Maternity Swimsuit
The tl;dr (too long; didn’t read) answer is, it depends on the style you pick and where you are in your pregnancy.
With a traditional bikini that features a bra top and a simple underwear bottom, regardless of what pregnancy stage you’re in, you can probably make do by simply going up a size to accommodate your growing bust.
And if you aren’t a fan of investing in a large maternity wardrobe, this might be the way to go as you can still wear that bikini even after you have your baby.
The same can’t be said for other types of swimsuits, especially once you enter your third trimester. Specifically, any one-piece or bikini style with a longer top — such as a tankini — isn’t going to be an option that you can pull from standard sizes, as the fit isn’t meant to accommodate an expanding belly.
So, if one-pieces, tankinis, or swim dresses are your style, you’re going to want to look for a maternity swimsuit.
Using the criteria above, we found a a few selections that we think are going to be a great fit for your next beach vacation or day at the pool. We also made sure to poll our Healthline family for top recommendations. We chose maternity suits based on:
- Style. Just like with your pre-baby body, everyone has different tastes. There are a wide range of options from under-belly to over-belly bikinis, one-pieces, and tankinis or monokinis.
- Size. We made sure brands included offered a wide range of sizes.
- Color: You can’t go wrong with black, but there’s a wide range of options out there. From bold solids to bright prints, we don’t feel like you have to be limited just because you’re rocking an outfit for two.
- Price. Some people want to splurge, others want to save. So we included maternity swimsuits across the spectrum to accommodate a variety of budgets.
Price guide
- $ = under $40
- $$ = $40–$70
- $$$ = $70–$100
- $$$$ = over $100
Best maternity one-piece
Seraphine Front Twist Black Maternity Swimsuit
- Price: $$
- Size range: XS – XL
- Material: 92% polyester 8% elastane
One-piece maternity swimsuits can be tricky because the fit through the torso varies between moms-to-be. But this pick from the very-trendy Seraphine offers ample room in the belly (thanks to the ruched sides) without compromising on style.
You’ll appreciate the front twist in the bodice along with the metal ring accents at the straps, and the cross-back for a fun and sporty look. It also has built-in bust support. Plus, as is common with maternity swimwear, the bottom offers modest coverage.
Pros
- modest one-piece design
- quick-dry material for added comfort
- XS – XL sizing
Cons
- not offered in other colors or prints for those who prefer a bolder style
Best maternity two-piece
The Maternity Ribbed Voyager Top and Cinched High-Rise Bottom from Summersalt
- Price: $$$
- Size range: 2 – 12
- Material: 92% polyamide, 8% elastane
This Summersalt cross back halter bikini top still gives you plenty of coverage, while the adjustable straps mean that you can use this top for every stage of your pregnancy. You’ll also appreciate the built-in cups to give your girls added support — which will come in handy — along with the microribbed fabric for added gentle compression.
The Cinched High-Rise Bottoms are exactly what they sound like — the same ribbed material in a high-rise cut that shows just a peek of bum. Fans of this suit say they love that the elastic doesn’t cut into their bump and that the suit is true to their pre-pregnancy size. However, keep in mind that this bikini is sold as separates, making this a pricier option for many.
Pros
- simple design that can work pre-, during, and post-bump
- cross-back halter gives plenty of support
- high-rise bottom allows for adjustable design so you can cover or show bump
Cons
- sold as individual pieces which makes for a more expensive bikini
Most supportive maternity swimsuit
Seraphine Slate Blue Supportive Maternity Swimming Costume
- Price: $$
- Size range: XS – XL
- Material: 87% polyester, 13% elastane
If you’re concerned about support for your ever-changing body, this swimsuit from Seraphine is a smart option. it features underwire and gently padded cups to help provide stability for your new curves. Meanwhile, it’s still stylish with ruching to adjust to your growing bump.
There’s also an optional empire belt to help accentuate your figure and draw attention to your slimmest point. Meanwhile, the fun slate blue color is universally flattering for most skin tones. And a full-coverage bottom provides plenty of modesty if you need it.
Pros
- modest one-piece design
- supportive cups for growing curves
- cute empire belt to accentuate your figure
Cons
- only available in one color
Best maternity swimsuit with UPF fabric
A Pea in the Pod Ruffled Maternity One-Piece Swimsuit UPF 50+
- Price: $$$$
- Size range: XS – L
- Material: 85% nylon, 15% Spandex
If you’re the type who struggles to remember to reapply sunblock, this UPF-infused swimsuit from A Pea in a Pod is a good start. While there’s no substitute for reapplying, you can rest easy that your bump is reasonably protected thanks to the UPF 50 protection that this one-piece provides.
You’ll get a fun printed swimsuit with a cute tie back design and ruffled straps that puts your bump on display in an adorable way. And there are removable pads in the bodice if you don’t want the added support. Note, though, that this swimsuit is hand-wash only.
Pros
- UPF 50-infused material for added sun protection
- fun floral print design
- removable cups in bodice
Cons
- swimsuit is hand-wash only
- size range is slightly limited from XS – L
Best maternity swim dress
Momo Maternity UPF 50+ Colorblock One-Piece Swim Bathing Suit
- Price: $$$
- Size range: S – L
- Material: UPF-infused material
If you prefer a more modest pick, this option from Momo Maternity is the way to go. This fun colorblock maternity swim dress features a majority navy hue with bold hot pink accents at the bust and on the hem.
The top has wide, adjustable, convertible straps so you can customize the style without compromising bust support. And if sun protection is on your priority list, this is another option with UPF 50+ infused in the fabric.
Pros
- UPF 50+ infused material
- modest swim dress design
- adjustable and convertible wide straps for added support
Cons
- limited size range from S to L
Best under-the-belly maternity swimsuit
PinkBlush Black Cutout One-Shoulder Maternity Bikini Set
- Price: $$
- Size range: S – XL
- Material: 82% nylon, 18% Spandex
Hands down, if you’re looking to get the most mileage from your swimwear, bikinis are the way to go. You can still wear under-the-belly maternity styles after you give birth to your bundle of joy.
This cute one-shoulder pick from PinkBlush offers a fun cut-out design and a traditional bikini bottom that rests comfortably under your bump while also providing full coverage in the bum. Better still, it’ll transition with you post-bump.
Pro
- versatile design works during and after pregnancy
- fashion-forward bikini top
- full-coverage bikini bottom sits comfortably under bump
- available in black and a pink leopard print
Cons
- bikini set is hand-wash only
Best low key maternity swimsuit
Old Navy Maternity Tie-Front Tankini Swim Top and Rollover Waist Swim Bottom
- Price: $-$$
- Size range: XS – XL
- Material: 82% polyester, 18% Spandex
For the mama who wants something simple, you can’t go wrong with Old Navy. This budget-friendly solution still gives you a bit of style thanks to the tie accent at the bust and cut-out design in the back.
While it’s sold as a separate, the nice thing is that Old Navy is all about mix-and-match swim. So, if you don’t want to pair it with the roll-over waist tropical-inspired bikini bottom, there are plenty of other options from their maternity swim collection.
Pro
- modest design ideal for bump coverage
- additional support in bust
- separates allow for mix and match; come in several colors and prints
Cons
- sold as separates (however this does allow for mixing and matching)
Best plus-sized maternity swimsuit
PinkBlush Black Ruffle Trim Ruched One-Piece Maternity Plus Swimsuit
- Price: $$
- Size range: 1X – 3X
- Material: 82% nylon, 18% Spandex
This maternity swimsuit from PinkBlush takes a simple one-piece style and gives it something extra thanks to the convertible ruffle design. The adjustable straps are removable, giving you the freedom to opt for a cute off-the-shoulder style if you prefer. We especially like that this pick is available in 1X, 2X, and 3X.
Pros
- full-coverage design for modesty
- removable and convertible straps for style versatility
- full-coverage bottom
Cons
- only available in one color
Best budget-friendly maternity swimsuit
MiYang Off-Shoulder Maternity Swimsuit
- Price: $
- Size range: S – XL
- Material: 82% nylon, 18% Spandex
Whether you prefer solids or prints, this cute one-piece from MiYang on Amazon comes in 14 colors and prints, so you’re bound to find one you’ll like. This is another ruched one-piece option that can convert from a ruffle style with straps to a strapless pick. There are also removable cups if you prefer not to have the extra padding.
It’s a more budget-friendly pick and lacks durability compared to other suits on the list, but if you’re only looking for a suit to get you through one summer, it may be a good way to go.
Pros
- available in fun colorful prints
- adjustable and removable shoulder straps
- removable cups
Cons
- hardware on straps isn’t very durable and may break prematurely
Best maternity tankini
BHome Maternity Front-Tie Maternity Two-Piece Swimwear
- Price: $
- Size range: S – XL
- Material: 82% polyamide, 18% Spandex
Tankinis give you the best of both worlds. You get the freedom of a two-piece while also having a lot more coverage than a traditional bikini would offer. This fun pick from BH Home Maternity features a fun tie-front design on the top that’s paired with a deep V-neck front and a tie-back halter to create visual interest. Meanwhile, you get a high-waist bottom with full coverage in the back.
It comes in four color options: black and navy, pink and navy, blue and white stripes, or red and white stripes.
Pros
- modest design with bump coverage and full-coverage bikini bottom
- high-waist bottom that can be adjusted above or below bump
- removable cups in tankini
Cons
- straps not as adjustable as others on our list
Best maternity rash guard
Mermaid Maternity Women’s Maternity Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Swim Shirt
- Price: $
- Size range: 16 – 20
- Material: Lycra, Spandex
You shouldn’t have to spend a fortune to protect your skin while you’re at the beach. Made with UPF 50+ sun protection, this rash guard swim shirt from Mermaid Maternity is perfect for people who want a little extra coverage over their suit. Note that this is designed to be fitted, so if you want a relaxed look, size up.
Pros
- UPF 50+ infused material and long sleeves provide added sun protection
- designed with a relaxed fit for added comfort
- drawstring hem
Cons
- only available in plus sizes
- only available in one color
Best splurge maternity swimsuit
Hatch Mallorca Bikini
- Price: $$$$
- Size range: XS – XL
- Material: 78% recycled nylon, 22% Spandex
When money is no object, Hatch is one of those maternity brands that needs to be on your shortlist. Their fan-favorite Mallorca one-piece has now been converted into a two-piece. It offers a supportive full-coverage top with tie-style straps.
Meanwhile, you’ll get an adjustable bottom that can be worn above or under your bump thanks to convenient side seam ruching. Better still, this cute swimsuit transitions with you into postpartum as those tie straps can be easily undone for nursing.
Pros
- transitional bikini that continues into postpartum
- full-coverage bottom and top
- adjustable straps that accommodate nursing
Cons
- expensive and may not be realistic for every budget
- hand-wash only
- only comes in one color option
Most stylish one-piece
PinkBlush Ruffle Maternity One-Piece Swimsuit
- Price: $$
- Size range: S – XL
- Material: 82% polyester, 18% Spandex
One-pieces are in fashion — even if you’re only rocking them for a few months. This one comes in classic black or a cute beige cheetah print. It offers a plunging neckline, adorable ruffles, and a fun faux keyhole design at the base of the bodice. Meanwhile, you’ll still get a full-coverage bottom and a tie-back design for added visual interest.
Pros
- ruched sides accommodates growing bump
- plenty of design touches for visual interest
- wide color selection
Cons
- some people may feel the neckline is too plunging
- runs small and may need to order up a size
Best vintage-inspired maternity swimsuit
Kimi and Kai Nancy One-Piece Maternity Swimsuit
- Price: $$
- Size range: XS – XL
- Material: 85% polyester, 15% nylon
If you’re a fan of vintage 1940s- and 1950s-style swimsuits, this suit lets you keep rocking that style even when you’re swimming for two.
This Kim and Kai one-piece features a classic halter design that looks like you stepped out of a vintage magazine.
You’ll benefit from UPF 50+ sun protection as well as full back coverage. The bodice is lined with soft cups. However, this is a hand-wash-only swimsuit.
Pros
- vintage-inspired style that’s simultaneously modern and retro
- full-coverage design for modesty
- UPF 50+ sun protection
Cons
- hand-wash only
Much like when you’re shopping for other maternity clothing, you’re going to want to consider the fit, material, price, design, and style.
Price
With maternity clothing, prices can vary widely depending on the store you select and the style. More intricate styles will understandably cost more than a simple, solid-hued two-piece.
Fit
If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck beyond simply focusing on the price, you need to consider the fit. If you’re shopping from standard sizes, look for bottoms that have adjustable ties so you don’t need to keep buying more bottoms as your belly grows.
And as for the top, a supportive halter style will work through all three trimesters while a good tankini option is best for the second and third trimesters.
If you’re more comfortable in a one-piece, keep in mind that sometimes the fit here can be tricky. Everyone carries their pregnancy differently, so if you find that your hunt for the perfect one-piece isn’t working, move on to a two-piece instead.
Style
You can find a maternity swimsuit in all the same configurations that you would a standard-sized swimsuit. So, that includes one-pieces, two-pieces (i.e., bikinis, tankinis), swim dresses, and swim bottoms. There’s no right or wrong choice here as long as you pick something that you feel comfortable wearing!
Design
You’re pregnant — that doesn’t mean that your sense of fashion has gone out the window. Just like before you got that BFP (big fat positive), you want a swimsuit that reflects your personality and style. Maybe you’ve always preferred solid colors over patterns, or maybe you like side-tie bikinis with fun accents on the strings. The sky’s the limit, mama.
What size maternity swimsuit should I buy?
Picking the right size for your swimsuit is going to depend on the swim style you pick. Bikinis tend to be the most forgiving because you can usually buy your pre-pregnancy size, which means you can continue shopping from standard-sized lines rather than focusing solely on maternity collections. However, if you opt for roll-down bikini bottoms, it’s best to focus on maternity sizes as these will feature ruching that accommodates a growing bump.
With maternity sizing, you can still usually shop your regular size. However, you’ll find that the design features like paneling and ruching are intended to accommodate your bump. Likewise, the bust area may also be a little more generous, as pregnant women tend to increase their bra size by anywhere from one to three cups.
Can you buy normal swimwear while pregnant?
Yes, but only for certain styles. Typically, you’ll only be able to get away with buying regular-size swimwear if you focus on under-the-belly bikinis. In some styles, you may simply be able to size up. Keep in mind that your breasts may be larger. So, if you want to focus on regular sizes, look for mix-and-match swimwear that allows you to shift up or down in size for tops so that you can accommodate your growing bust line.
What are the best maternity swimwear brands?
Best is always subjective and will also depend heavily on your budget. If you’re shopping on a budget, most mass retailers like Target, Old Navy, and H&M will be great options that are affordable but still offer stylish and durable solutions that can last more than a handful of uses. If you have more flexibility in your budget, brands like Seraphine and PinkBlush offer great maternity styles that are moderately priced. And if budget is no issue, premium brands like Hatch are fantastic at offering fashion-forward solutions for outfitting your bump.
Maternity fashion can feel like a catch-22 as you try to find a happy medium between staying stylish and not blowing through your budget for ultimately 4 to 5 months of bump fashion. But a good maternity swimsuit should be able to transition with you at least into early postpartum. And if you’re a fan of bikinis even when you’re sporting a bump, those babies can last a lifetime!