It’s #TCFSwim Week, and we’d be remiss if we didn’t discuss the most important part of the swimsuit — let’s talk support, shall we?
A few years back, we introduced you to the concept of the plus size swim bra—yes, the supportive layer that goes under your swimsuit to keep the girls lifted, secure, and in place. Now that we’re in full plus size swimwear mode with TCFSwim Week, it’s the perfect time to revisit the swim bra and why it’s an absolute game-changer for so many of us in the plus-size community.
What Is a Swim Bra?
Think of a swim bra as your secret weapon for feeling confident and supported in the water. Designed to be worn under your favorite plus size one-piece or bold and darling plus size bikini, a swim bra offers extra support, lift, and security—especially useful if you’re:
- Doing water aerobics
- Dancing by the pool
- Swimming laps
- Or just want that extra “sit UP” moment
While some swim bras are made sleek and stylish enough to wear on their own as bikini tops, most are engineered as functional underpinnings to give you that hidden boost under swimwear that may not be supportive enough on its own.
But Wait—Don’t Some Swimsuits Already Have Bras?
Yes and no.
While many plus size swimwear brands have come a long way in offering built-in bras, shelf bras, molded cups, or even underwire options, not all swimsuits are created equal. Sometimes, you just need more—especially if you’re fuller busted, have a heavier bustline, or just prefer more structure. That’s where a plus size swim bra comes in.
As Bra Expert Kimmay Caldwell noted in her piece for LiveStrong, “Supportive swimwear starts from the inside out. If your breasts are heavy or pendulous, an inner bra is often essential—not just a nice-to-have.”
Why a Plus Size Swim Bra Is a Must-Have for Plus Size Babes
- Support & Lift: Keeps everything in place—no slipping, bouncing, or adjusting every five minutes.
- Comfort: Reduces neck and shoulder strain, especially for H+ cups.
- Confidence: You move differently when you feel held, supported, and secure.
- Versatility: Layer it under a lower-support swim top or use as a sleek bikini top, depending on the style.
As Today.com points out in their roundup of supportive swimwear options:
“Swim bras offer that little bit of magic—bringing the kind of lift you love from your favorite everyday bra, but made to withstand sun, sand, and surf.”
Our Top Plus Size Swim Bra Picks
We rounded up a few trusted plus size swim bras to help you level up your swim drawer this summer:
Elomi Plain Sailing Bikini Top
Based on the OG Elomi Swim Bra, the Essentials Plunge Bikini Top, this classic black underwire swim bra is a staple. Built with firm support, it features molded cups, power mesh lining, and a wide band that actually stays put.
Calypsa Adjustable Strap Clasp Swim Bra
Designed with full busts in mind, this bra features adjustable straps, molded cups, and a wide back clasp for a personalized fit. Perfect for layering under any tankini or rash guard—or wearing solo if you like sleek, minimalist swim style. Bonus? It comes in cup sizes up to G and a 6X
JunoActive QuikEnergy™ Swim Bra
Ideal for active swimmers and water fitness lovers, this swim bra is made with high-compression QuikEnergy™ fabric that resists chlorine and provides firm bust support. With wide straps, a keyhole racerback, and a streamlined silhouette, it’s built for movement and comfort—all while keeping everything in place. Available up through a size 6X (38/40).
TL;DR: A Plus Size Swim Bra = Instant Upgrade
So now that you’ve seen the options and know what a plus size swim bra can do, doesn’t it make perfect sense to add one (or two) to your swimwear lineup?
Whether you’re splashing around in the waves, lounging poolside, or diving into aqua Zumba, a supportive swim bra makes a huge difference in how you look, feel, and move.
Want More Plus Size Swim Finds?
We are covering all things plus size swim this week, with TCFSwim Week! Make sure to check out the latest plus size swimwear finds, body confidence tips, and accessories that you will need! Make sure you’re subscribed to our TCF newsletter because we’re dropping hot swimwear tips, try-ons, and trend guides all week long!
Now tell us:
Have you ever tried a swim bra? Did it change your life like it did ours? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
I bought a swim bra several years ago and LOVED how it fit. High and tight; after yesrs of wearing way-to-small xl bikini tops under my swimmers, it looked amazing! Until the end of our 10 sunny vacation when I started to notice a bizarre tanline.
Instead of my normal tan chest, I had a very distinct, bright white diamond smack center on my décolletage.
If I was laying down, my new swim bra was casting a shadow across my chest, and when I was standing/sitting my boobs were were so high that my face/chin cast a shadow too.
I spent the rest of the summer answering questions about my new skin disease and fake tanning my chest.