How to Choose Swimwear

How to Choose Swimwear — Complete Guide for US Shoppers

Buying swimwear online is hard. Sizes vary by brand. Fabrics behave differently. And you can't try it on before buying.

This guide covers everything you need to know — from finding your size to making your suit last longer — so you can buy with confidence.

Step 1 — Know Your Body Type (And What Styles Work Best)

There's no "perfect" body. But certain cuts flatter different shapes.

• Pear shape (wider hips, narrower shoulders): High-waisted bottoms balance proportions. Darker bottoms with patterned tops draw eyes up. Avoid string bikinis on bottom.

• Apple shape (fuller midsection, slimmer legs): One-piece suits with ruching or draping. Tankinis with longer tops. High-cut legs elongate.

• Hourglass (bust and hips balanced, defined waist): Almost anything works. High-waisted bottoms, belted one-pieces, triangle tops.

• Athletic/rectangle (straight up and down): Push-up or padded tops create curves. Bottoms with side ties or ruffles add volume. Bright colors and patterns.

• Plus size: Look for wider straps, full coverage, built-in shelf bras. Avoid skinny strings. One-pieces with strategic cutouts are flattering.

Remember: These are suggestions, not rules. Wear what makes you feel confident.

Step 2 — Fabric Quality (What Lasts vs What Fades)

Not all swimsuit fabrics are equal.

What we sell: Most of our suits are nylon/spandex or polyester/spandex blends. Look for 20%+ spandex — that's what gives you stretch and recovery.

What to avoid: 100% cotton, no-spandex blends, "fashion" suits not labeled for swimming.

Step 3 — UPF Protection (Sun Safety Matters)

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks.

• UPF 15-24: Good protection (blocks ~93% of UV)

• UPF 25-39: Very good protection (blocks ~96% of UV)

• UPF 40-50+: Excellent protection (blocks ~98% of UV)

When UPF matters:

• You burn easily

• You'll be in direct sun for hours

• Kids (their skin is more sensitive)

• Family history of skin cancer

When it's less critical:

• You'll be mostly in shade

• You tan without burning

• Short exposure times

Look for "UPF 50+" on our product pages. We clearly label sun-protective styles.

Step 4 — Size Charts (Ignore Your Dress Size)

Swimwear sizes are NOT the same as dress sizes. Always check the specific size chart for each brand.

General guidelines for women's swimwear:

For bikini tops: Cup size matters. If you're larger than a C cup, look for underwire, thicker straps, or specifically "DD+" styles.

For bottoms: If between sizes, size up. Too-tight bottoms dig in and aren't comfortable. Too-loose bottoms fall down when wet.

For men's swim trunks:

• S (28-30 waist)

• M (31-33 waist)

• L (34-36 waist)

• XL (37-39 waist)

• XXL (40-42 waist)

Step 5 — Coverage Level (How Much Skin You Show)

Swimwear exists on a spectrum. Know what you're comfortable with.

Step 6 — Lining and Support

Cheap swimsuits have no lining or thin lining. Good suits have:

• Full front lining (at minimum)

• Built-in shelf bra (A-C cups)

• Underwire or molded cups (C+ cups)

• Power mesh (tummy control)

What we sell: All our swimsuits are fully lined. Look for product descriptions that mention "built-in bra" or "supportive."

Step 7 — Care Instructions (Make Your Suit Last)

Swimsuits die young because of improper care.

Do:

• Rinse in cold water immediately after swimming (chlorine and salt damage fabric)

• Hand wash with gentle soap (special swimsuit wash or baby shampoo)

• Lay flat to dry in shade

• Rotate between multiple suits if you swim daily

Don't:

• Machine wash (ever)

• Machine dry (ever)

• Wring or twist (breaks spandex)

• Leave wet in a bag (mildew and fabric damage)

• Sit on rough surfaces (concrete, rocks)

A well-cared-for suit lasts 2-3 seasons. A neglected suit dies in 2-3 months.

Step 8 — When to Replace Your Swimsuit

Signs it's time for a new suit:

• Fabric feels loose or baggy (lost elasticity)

• Colors are faded or splotchy

• Lining is showing through

• Straps won't stay adjusted

• Seams are fraying or coming apart

• Elastic is visible or crunchy

If you see these, the suit no longer provides proper fit or sun protection.

Step 9 — Cover-Ups and Accessories

Complete your beach look with:

• Sarong: Versatile, ties multiple ways

• Kaftan: Loose, breezy, elegant

• Crochet cover-up: Bohemian, see-through (wear over solid suit)

• Swim shirt/rash guard: Sun protection for active swimming

• Beach hat: Face and scalp protection

• Sunglasses: UV protection for eyes

Step 10 — Shipping, Returns & Duties for US Buyers

• Free worldwide shipping — including all 50 US states

• Duties and taxes included — no surprise fees

• 30-day easy returns — no restocking fee

• Hygiene seal: If the hygiene liner is removed, the suit can't be returned (standard for swimwear)

FAQ — Quick Answers

How do I find my swimsuit size if I'm between sizes?
Size up. Too-tight swimwear is uncomfortable and unflattering. Too-loose can be adjusted or tailored.

What fabric lasts the longest?
Polyester + spandex blends. They resist chlorine, salt, and sun better than nylon.

Can I wear a swimsuit in a hot tub?
Yes, but hot water and chlorine damage fabric faster. Rinse immediately after. Better to use an older suit for hot tubs.

How do I remove sunscreen stains from swimsuit?
Dab with dish soap before washing. Don't rub — it pushes oil into fabric.

Do you ship to all US states?
Yes — all 50 states plus DC, Puerto Rico, Guam.

What's your return policy for swimwear?
30-day returns. Suit must have hygiene liner intact. No restocking fee.

Can I exchange for a different size?
Yes. Return the original suit for a refund, then order the new size. We don't do direct exchanges.

© Family Shopolf — Premium swimwear. Free shipping to the US. Duties included.