Flattering Plus-Size Swimwear Necklines
Women’s plus-size swimsuits come in an array of styles to flatter every body, whether you’re shopping for a one-piece swimsuit or a tankini. A swimsuit’s neckline can make a difference when it comes to how comfortable and confident you feel. Keep reading to learn about your swimwear neckline options.
The Scoop Neck
The scoop-neck swimsuit is a classic choice, whether you opt for a one-piece or a two-piece. This curved neckline looks great on everyone and can be found in varying levels of coverage. Some scoop necks are higher, while others are lower. If you want a bathing suit with an ’80s-inspired vibe, you can’t go wrong with a scoop neck one-piece in a classic color like black, navy, or red.
The High Neck
If you prefer modest swimwear that offers ample coverage, a high-neck bathing suit might be the right choice for you. These suits come in one-piece and two-piece styles and an array of colors and prints. There are zippered high-neck swimsuits that are excellent for water sports and those made for post-mastectomy wear.
The Square Neck
One plus-size swimwear style that toes the line between retro and modern is the square neck. Square-neck bathing suits come in high-neck styles and those with more of a square-scoop design. You’ll find square-neck tankinis and one-piece swimsuits, some of which have shirring and control lining for a streamlined effect. Square-neck tankini tops go well with swim shorts, or you can pair one with a skirt.
The V-Neck
For a universally flattering swimsuit that shows more skin, there’s the V-neck. As with the other styles, V-neck swimsuits come in one-piece and two-piece styles. Some have ruffles for a decorative look, while others are designed in a wrap style. If you’re looking for a V-neck swimsuit with classic appeal, consider a black or black-and-white polka dot V-neck one-piece with shirring at the waist. A V-neck tankini top and bikini bottom in a vibrant tropical print is one idea for something modern.
The Sweetheart Neckline
The sweetheart neckline is a stylish variation on the V-neck. It almost has a heart shape and is often accompanied by comparatively wide swimsuit straps. This type of plus-size swimsuit is another that has retro appeal—especially when paired with a swim skirt or high-waisted bikini bottoms.
The Bandeau
One of the most versatile necklines is the bandeau. Many bandeau tankinis and one-piece swimsuits have removable straps so that you can wear them with or without. There are retro-inspired paisley print bandeaus, along with those in solid colors. Some plus-size bandeau swimsuits have control lining for extra smoothing.
The Grecian
The Grecian swimsuit is popular with women of every size, and for good reason. The neckline combines elements from the V-neck and square-neck to create a shape that literally works for everybody. You’ll find Grecian swimsuits with control lining for waistline smoothing. They come in many solid colors and prints, so it’s easy to find one that complements you.
The One-Shoulder
Go sporty and modern with a one-shoulder swimsuit. This asymmetrical style is right on-trend, and it allows for maximum freedom of movement. Plus, it comes in sizes to fit every body and lots of colors and motifs. You’ll find one-shoulder tankini tops that can be worn with classic bikini bottoms, swim shorts, or a swim skirt.
Selecting the Right Swimwear Fabric
Now that you know a bit more about the swimwear necklines let’s talk about fabric. Most swimsuits are either polyester/spandex or nylon/spandex. Both polyester and nylon are durable synthetic fabrics that are soft and fast-drying, making them ideal for swimwear. One of the biggest differences is that polyester is more matte while nylon is shiny.
No matter which fabric you choose, look for one that’s resistant to chlorine, salt, sweat, and sunscreen. Some chlorine-resistant swimsuits are made with Lycra® XtraLife™, a spandex type that lasts more than 10 times longer than regular spandex. It resists fading and keeps its shape, even after plenty of wear. Sun protective swimwear is something else to look for—most polyester and nylon bathing suits provide UPF 50 for covered areas.
Putting Together a Summer Look
Another important part of your summer wardrobe is swim cover-ups, whether you choose cover-up dresses or women’s rash guard cover-up shirts. These garments are made from polyester with spandex for stretch and sun protection, and they come in a wide variety of styles to complement your swimsuit.
Once you have the right swimsuit and cover-up, you just need shoes and a few accessories. Swim shoes are a summer must-have, along with a pair of wedge sandals to go with your casual outfits. You’ll also want a soft, absorbent oversized beach towel to tuck into your beach bag. There are beach bags made from water-resistant canvas for breezy style and durability.
The best plus-size swimsuit neckline for you this summer is the one you like best, so experiment with styles to find your favorite.