Plus Size Modest Swimwear: How to Find Your Fit

The short answer: plus size modest swimwear works best as separates: a swim top that skims rather than clings, a bottom with a comfortable waistband, and a swim bra in your own size underneath. HydroChic makes most styles from S to 5X, and you can choose a different size for your top and your bottom.

Why it's so hard to find plus size swimwear you actually like

Most plus size swimwear is a one-piece in bigger sizes. It's tight in the middle, short in the leg and made for lying by the pool, not moving in it. If you want more coverage too, the options shrink even further.

"It is very hard to find active swimwear in larger sizes. HydroChic has a large selection of fashionable items. They have more than just bathing suits... real aquatic wear!"

— Karynne R.

"Have been waiting for years for someone to make them in comfortable plus sizes."

— Malkie L., on the Bike & Hike Swim Skirt 25"

How our plus sizes work

We use two plus size cuts, and the size options on each product page show you which one a style uses.

• Plus Classic, 1X to 5X (US sizes 14–16 up to 30–32).
• Plus Full Cut, 0X to 5X (US sizes 14–16 up to 34–36). It's a fuller, roomier cut. If a style offers 0X, it uses the Full Cut chart.

Three tips for getting it right the first time:

1. Start with your clothing size. Women who choose the same numerical size they wear in everyday clothes usually find our pieces fit well. Then check your bust, waist and hip measurements against our size chart.
2. Mix your sizes. Tops and bottoms are sold separately, so a 2X top with a 3X bottom (or the other way around) is completely normal.
3. Size up if you like a looser fit. Our customers do it all the time: "Bought up a size. Wanted the extra room." (Sharon A.)

Tops that skim, not cling

A good plus size swim top falls past your hips and moves with you instead of sticking to your stomach when it's wet. Look for longer lengths, a relaxed cut through the middle, and details like ruching or contrast side panels that draw the eye vertically.

• Coral Bay Ruched Swim Shirt: soft ruching that hides what you'd rather not show.
• Easy On and Off Full Zippered Athletic Swim Top: a roomy fit with long sleeves, and it zips on, so there's nothing to pull over your head when it's wet.
• Aqua Pacific Fitness Modest Rash Guard: 3/4 sleeves, sizes up to 5X.

"The fit was perfect. The shirt did not cling to me, was light weight and dried quickly."

— Ilene M., on the Eclipse Swim and Sport Rashguard

Bottoms for your belly, hips and thighs

The two things that matter most are a waistband that stays put without digging in, and enough length to cover what you want covered.

• A-line skirts with attached leggings or shorts. The Activewear Long Swim and Sports Skirt 28" has an A-line cut and a yoke waistband that slims the hips. The Athletic Jogging Swim Skirt 20" has a wider, more supportive waistband in plus sizes.
• Swim capris and pants. The Land & Sea Swim Capris and Long Yoga Swim Pants are close fitting but not tight, and run up to 5X.

"I ordered the 2X and I was concerned that the skirt would be too short. The length of the skirt is perfect and I like the addition of the pants underneath."

— Melissa

"I have tried several swim skirts with leggings but they were never nice enough to wear out and about or they weren't high enough in the waist, or the skirt rode up. This one fits great, looks great and is so comfortable."

— Grace R.

"I am a size 14… This longer skirt is just what I was looking for so I can feel confident when swimming with my family and friends."

— Jodie J.

Don't skip the swim bra

Our tops are designed to be worn over a separate swim bra, so you get real support in your own size instead of a built-in shelf that fits nobody. The Supreme Swim and Sports Bra is our best-seller: customers come back for it again and again, often buying several at once. It supports far larger busts than most swim bras, well beyond DDD and up to a J cup.

"Unlike another swim bra I bought, this one has the cups sewn in so they don't move when you're in the water. Easy to put on and take off."

— Lisa L.

"I was impressed with the comfort and support… it really kept me dry under my rash-guard shirt."

— Trudy M.

Quality matters more in bigger sizes

Thin swim fabric stretches over curves and can turn see-through. Our chlorine proof fabric keeps its shape, color and coverage season after season. Here's why chlorine proof matters.

"I do really like your swim gear the best… I did order one off of Amazon and it was see-through."

— Shonda R.

"The reason I'll keep ordering from HydroChic is because of the fit and fabric. The fabric is thicker than other brands."

— Naomi M., on the Activewear Long Swim and Sports Skirt

"I very much love the quality of your product and they always fit me."

— Beth F., size 4X

Frequently asked questions

What sizes does HydroChic carry?

Most styles run from S to 5X. Plus sizes come in two cuts: Plus Classic (1X–5X) and the roomier Plus Full Cut (0X–5X).

Should I order my usual size?

Usually, yes. Women who order the same numerical size they wear in clothing tend to find our pieces fit well. If you're between sizes or like a looser fit, size up.

Can I order a different size top and bottom?

Yes. Every piece is sold separately, so you can match each one to your body.

Will the fabric be see-through?

No. Our chlorine proof fabric stays opaque in and out of the water, even after years of pool use.

Can someone help me choose my size?

Yes. Email us at service@hydrochicfashion.com with your measurements and the styles you like, and we'll help you pick.

Every body deserves to be in the water. Coverage is about choosing your own comfort level, never about hiding. Browse our Plus Size collection and find yours.