The most flattering swimsuits of 2026

Suits you! The styles you’ll love wearing, from beach to bar, poolside to party

Whether you’re off to the Seychelles or Skegness, you need women’s swimwear that fits, flatters, will last, and (most importantly) makes you feel great. The good news is your dream swimsuits are easier to find than you think. From shape-enhancing styles to clever cuts and tactical textures, there’s smart swimwear for every body. Let’s dive in…

One-piece swimsuits with power mesh lining, ruching or a wrap front will provide great support and flatter the tummy area. High apex designs – where the shoulder straps attach to a higher point on the cup – create a plunging, elongated neckline that creates the illusion of a longer torso.

For larger cup sizes of DD+ choose a square-neck design, or one with underwiring or built-in cups to provide lift. Adjustable straps are also ideal to ensure a secure fit. Look at brands that offer bra sizing, such as Fantasie, Freya and Panache.

Triangle bikini tops in busy patterns, or designs that feature ruffles, 3D textures or other embellishments, will add a visual boost to smaller busts – Boden nails this category. Also look for cut-out styles that promise to enhance your best bits, and feel great too.

It’s not exactly new information that black is super flattering, so for curvy confidence you can’t go wrong with a black swimsuit or tankini. If you want to cover up your bottom half a little more, try a skirted swimsuit or swim dress.

Anyone with a long torso will know all about swimsuits digging into the shoulders. To solve this, try all-in-ones that have adjustable straps or halternecks. Another fail-safe option is a bandeau design with removable straps.

Clever details such as buckles, beading, twist-fronts and gold hardware add a refined, elevated finish, while vertical stripes or colour blocking elongate and create a slimming effect.

Inject some colour into your holiday wardrobe with happy-making shades. “Vibrant cobalt blue and emerald green are key colours for swimwear ‘26, enhanced by rich textural fabrics,” says Claire Brereton, John Lewis’ Swimwear Buyer.

Crinkled or ribbed fabrics are trending this summer, as they provide natural texture that distracts the eye and also offer more ‘give’ than Lycra styles. Beloved by high-end brands for being flattering, soft and strong, a crinkle finish also gives swimwear an expensive look and feel.