Women's Swimwear Buying Guide: Cuts, Fits & Fabrics

Women's Swimwear Buying Guide: Cuts, Fits & Fabrics

Find your perfect swimsuit before the season ends

Shopping for swimwear online can feel overwhelming — endless styles, sizing that varies by brand, and fabric descriptions that don't always tell the full story. This guide breaks it down so you can shop with confidence.

Know Your Cut

The bikini cut you choose shapes everything about how a suit fits and flatters. Two-piece triangle tops offer adjustability and work well for most bust sizes, while strapless and bandeau styles give a clean, minimal look perfect for tanning. High-waisted bottoms add coverage and elongate the torso — a go-to for a vintage-inspired silhouette. If you want one piece that does it all, a three-piece set with a cover skirt gives you flexibility from the water to lunch on the patio.

Match the Style to the Occasion

Vacation bikinis lean into print and color — leopard print, stripes, and bold solids photograph beautifully and hold up across a full resort day. For hot springs or lap swimming, a supportive steel-underwire bikini top or a secure collar-strap design keeps everything in place. For casual beach days, a relaxed two-piece or quick-dry skirt bikini is your best bet.

Sizing Tips for Online Shopping

Always check the size chart before ordering. Most swimwear runs true to size but can vary by stretch percentage in the fabric. When between sizes, size up for comfort — especially in bottoms. Look for adjustable ties and straps, which give you more flexibility across the fit.

Care & Longevity

Rinse your swimwear in cold water after every wear — chlorine and saltwater break down elastic fibers quickly. Hand wash with mild soap and lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing, and never put swimwear in the dryer.

Ready to find your fit? Browse our full swimwear collection at Andersen Mercantile.