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There was a time when the plus size swimdress felt like a fashion cop-out. It was something people wore to feel “covered” at the community pool. But baby, that era is over. The plus size swim dress has entered its renaissance, and it’s not just back—it’s better, bolder, and built for the baddie who wants to feel supported and stunning.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about hiding. It’s about showing up.
Where It Started: A Little History Lesson
Plus size swimdresses have always been part of the conversation for curvier bodies, but the swim dresses’ origins weren’t nearly as glamorous. According to the Beyond Measure: Fashion and the Plus-Size Woman Exhibition at New York University, early 20th-century swimwear focused heavily on modesty and control, with garments that resembled full-on dresses—complete with bloomers underneath. Coverage wasn’t about comfort — it was about conforming.
By the 1950s, the plus size swimdress began to flirt with glamour. According to Business Insider, swimsuits began embracing the hourglass silhouette, with sweetheart necklines and strategic ruching. However, for plus size women, swim dresses still often served as a compromise: a blend of shaping, hiding, and keeping things “appropriate.” The style lingered in a fashion purgatory for decades—more “mom at the waterpark” than magazine editorial.
But — the tides have turned!
What Makes a Swim Dress Good in 2025?
Today’s best swim dresses are no longer just about coverage—they’re about construction, intention, and aesthetic.
A good plus size swimdress starts with support. Adjustable straps. Built-in bras that don’t flatten. Fabric with enough stretch to sculpt, not suffocate. We need high-performance materials that dry fast, move well, and hug all the right places.
Now, let’s talk about shape: A great swim dress doesn’t hide your body—it highlights it. Think A-line cuts with strategic pleating, flared hems that float in the water, or curve-hugging silhouettes with a cheeky slit. She’s flirty, she’s functional.
And of course, there’s style. Because yes, you can be sporty and glamorous. Covered and sexy. Swim dresses in 2025 are giving variety—and the girls deserve options.
The Aesthetic Breakdown: There’s a Swim Dress For That
The Bombshell:
Channel your inner 1920s siren in a polka-dot or cherry-red retro moment. Brands like Swimsuits For All and Unique Vintage deliver high-waisted, halter-top swim dresses with ruching and sweetheart necklines that serve major pin-up realness.
The Glam Mermaid:
Glitter, lace, and high slits. This is for the girls who want to shimmer and show off a little thigh while still rocking a skirted bottom. Try ELOQUII for metallic finishes, mesh inserts, and even plunging necklines. These aren’t your mama’s pool looks—they’re red carpet meets resort.
The Cool-Girl Minimalist:
Looking for structure without sparkle? Summersalt and Andie Swim are your best bet, offering sleek silhouettes in rich neutrals or colorblocked tones that give editorial without effort.
The Boho Romantic:
Think flowy, floral, and soft. Brands like Alpine Butterfly Swim and BloomChic offer wrap-style swim dresses and chiffon cover-up skirts for the girl who’s more about quiet luxury than poolside posing.
Final Thoughts from Me, Lauryn
As someone who’s worn swim dresses out of obligation, I can finally say: I’m wearing them by choice now. Because this time, they’re designed for me—for my waist, my hips, my desire to feel covered and cute. And that’s the difference.
We’re in a moment where plus size fashion is starting to meet us where we are—joyful, sexy, nuanced, and fully in our power. The swim dress? She’s just part of the movement. So whether you’re giving vintage glam or glittery goddess this season, do it on your terms.
Oh, and don’t forget the shimmery body oil!
The author’s content and opinions have not been pre-reviewed, approved or endorsed by Discover.
