If you've ever felt less than your best in a swimsuit that's skimpy on support (let alone experienced a wardrobe malfunction), you already have an pretty good idea why bra-sized swimwear is so important.
So before you head out on spring break, let's make sure your swimwear is up to speed. Armed with some essential fashion knowledge, you'll be ready to cannnoball, parasail or sunbathe in figure-flattering body-confidence. Why would you wear anything else?
So what exactly is bra-sized swimwear?
Simply put, we're talking about bikini tops, tankinis and one-piece swimsuits with band and cup sizing. It's like a real bra is built right into the suit.
Who is bra-sized swim best for?
Band- and cup-sized swim tops make for more supportive swimwear for large busts. If you wear a D-cup or above, definitely do yourself this favor. That said, East-West chests—and even smaller chests—can benefit from the seaside security and support only bra-sized swim can provide.
How do swim bras work?
Whereas string ties or halter straps put the weight of your boobs squarely on your neck, bra-sized swim tops evenly distribute the weight just like a real bra does, alleviating the strain from your neck and back. They rely on multipart seaming, underwires, side boning and other strategies to keep you lifted, locked and loaded.
When is the best time to wear bra-sized swim?
When you're wearing a bathing suit! If you've only ever worn off-the-rack swim, you know that one size does not fit most...and neither does small, medium, large. For maximum support when you're in the absolute least at the beach or by the pool, see for yourself what a major difference bra sizing makes.
Why is bra-sized swimwear better than regular swimwear?
Bra-sized swimwear is made with similar (if not the exact same) construction as a bra, helping to ensure that your boobs are comfortably lifted and securely supported all day long. (That also cuts a slimmer silhouette, which doesn't hurt, either.)
Why is Bare Necessities the bra-sized swim destination?
"We understand firsthand that shopping for swimwear is hard," says our senior merchant Lyndsey Giannacio. "Swimwear constructed by bra experts is like no other bathing suit you've tried. Our mission is to bring together our favorite swim styles from the best bra brands that we know will support you in style."
How do you know your bra-sized swimwear size?
Bra-sized swim is usually pretty close to your bra size. Of course, swim fabrics are their own thing entirely. If you're not certain about which size, style or brand to go for, reach out to our Bra Fit Experts. They know the ins and outs of each suit.
What are the best bra-sized swim brands?
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Sunsets: The longest-running family-owned swim company in the US, Sunsets was the very first to sell swim separates. To this day, they create supportive swim that’ll make you love how you look. (Bands 28-42 and cups A-H)
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Birdsong: We developed our own swim brand to be supportive, sustainable and stylish. Birdsong bra-sized swim brings exceptional quality, fit and fashion to what used to be hard-to-find sizes. (Bands 30-48 and cups C-K)
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Fantasie: This British brand is known for its fabulous, bright prints and its super supportive tops in sizes D-cup and above. (Bands 30-44 and cups D-FF; UK sizing)
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Elomi: The top brand for plus-size curves, Elomi bases much of its swimwear on the best selling Matilda Side Support Plunge Bra. (Bands 34-44 and cups DD-JJ; UK sizing)
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Freya: Freya is all about on-trend swim (and lingerie and activewear) that caters to full busts fabulously so you never have to choose fit over fashion. (Bands 28-42 and cups DD-G; UK sizing)
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Panache: Wisely, Panache bases its effortlessly sexy full-bust swimsuits on best selling bra designs. If you're a fan of Panache Ana, for instance, check out the Spirit collection. (Bands 30-40 and cups D-K; UK sizing)
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Pour Moi: If you like a suit that's on the risqué end of the spectrum, this brand is cut to fit and flatter in bold solids and eye-catching prints. (Bands 32-38 and cups C-G; UK sizing)
Shop our bra-sized swim collection now, and swim in security the next time you slip into a suit.
