BLUE HARE MAGAZINE




40+ stylish swimsuits for women over 60. Flattering choices for every body type.


Happy older woman splashing in water

One thing hasn’t changed much over the years–shopping for a swimsuit that makes us feel attractive and confident is not something we look forward to. Especially since the bodies we had in our 20s and 30s–even 40s–have shape-shifted over the years. 

If this sounds like you, fear not. After a targeted search we found a nice selection of stylish swimsuits that are perfect for women over 60, designed for any body type. Many come in plus sizes. All you need to find the right one for you is to follow these simple guidelines. They are the remedy for any problem areas you may have.

  • Bold prints cover a plethora of problems
  • Contrasting colors are your friend
  • Dark colors create an illusion of slenderness if you prefer solids
  • More coverage for the areas that bother you will add to your comfort
  • Emphasize your best features

Problem #1: Tummy

Solution: Colorful patterns, ruching, and loose-fitting tops.

After we hit menopause, many of us tend to accumulate fat around our waist and midsection, some more than others. Fortunately, there are stylish options that minimize and help camouflage this area.

  • Shirring and ruching–gathered overlays of fabric strips that are pleated, fluted, or gathered together to create a ripple-like effect–hide everyday lumps and bumps. Many suits with shirring or ruching also include tummy control panels.
  • Colorful patterns move the eye around and up and away from problem tummies. Opt for bold patterns; delicate prints hide nothing.
  • Tankinis are a favorite of the over-60 set as they can camouflage an array of problem areas. The best style for wayward tummies is a blouson top or one that flows away from the body.

Shirred one-piece swimsuit by Anne Cole  

 

Anne Cole one-piece swimsuit

This stunning one-piece swimsuit pairs a colorful pattern with ruching at the waist to minimize. Find it at Macy’s. 

V-Neck Tulip Hem Tankini Swimsuit Top

REd tulip hem tankini top for hides tummy area

A BLUE HARE favorite. The flattering tulip hemline of this tankini top moves with you and camouflages the tummy area.  The built-in bra with removable inserts provides comfortable support while the straps can be adjusted to the perfect fit without digging into your shoulders. Find it at Land’s End.

Network Jena One Piece Swimsuit

Butterescothc color swimsuit with sheer panels

Need a bathing suit that’s fit for a resort? Or a Sports Illustrated shoot? This striking suit from Miraclesuit evokes the look of a goddess, with comfortable control fabric that withstands any day in or out of the water. The only swimsuit that makes you look 10 pounds lighter in 10 seconds (says Miraclesuit). Find it at miraclesuit.com.

Land’s End Blouson Tummy Hiding Tankini

Lands End tankini

The loose silhouette drapes beautifully to cleverly camouflage your middle. Chlorine-resistant fabric helps keep its shape and UPF 50 protects from harmful rays. Mix tops and bottoms (sold separately) to suit your style. Combine sizes for the right fit. Find at Land’s End.

Miraclesuit Iridium Mirage Tankini

Miraclesuit black criss cross tankini top

This chic tankini top from Miraclesuit can move from pool to cocktails simply by adding a coverup skirt or flowy pants. Asymmetrical draping conceals the tummy and hips. Other features include a high mesh neckline, underwire bra, adjustable straps, and a full stright back. Pair with Miraclesuit bottoms to add tummy control. Buy the Iridium Mirage Tankini on Miraclesuit

Oversized Tankini Top from Lascana

Royal blue blouson tankini top

A tankini top in a slightly wider oversized style looks polished while camouflaging errant tummies. The close-fitting waistband keeps the top in place. Royal blue, aubergine, or mint green tops can be paired with the tankini bottom of your choice. From Lasana.com.

Problem #2: Back

Solution: High back that comes up to your shoulder blades.

Back fat can be the result of the natural ageing process. As we age, our muscles lose strength and tone – known as atrophy of the back muscles. And a genetic predisposition to store fat in this area and weight gain can lead to pockets of stubborn fat developing in the back. A swimsuits designed with a high back is an elegant way to conceal these problem areas.

Island Goddess Shirred One Shoulder by La Blanca

LaBlanca

All angles, this one-piece swimsuit has a shirred bodice with bold blocks of gorgeous color that highlight its asymmetrical lines. Just the right amount of coverage in back ensures a confident fit. Find it at La Blanca. 

Anne Cole Plunge Zip Back Swimsuit

High back swimsuit in shades of blue and purple

Anne Cole’s one-piece swimsuit features a bold color blocking design that will flatter your figure, and a plunge V-neck cut that will show off your neck and shoulders. Full back coverage features a zipper and continues the block pattern.  Available at Anne Cole.

Twist-Front Shirred Tankini Top by Anne Cole

Anne Cole tankini top

There are plenty of options with Anne Cole’s suite of stunning swim separates. This printed twist-front tankini top is the perfect partner for boy shorts, a swim skirt or classic brief bottoms. Find it at Macy’s.

Land’s End Multi Way Tankini Swimsuit

Land's End multi-wear tankini

 

Why settle for one style when you can have more than one? Introducing the high neck to one shoulder multi-way tankini by Land’s End. This stylish tankini can be worn as a one-shoulder suit one day and as a halter the next. The flattering shirring in the midsection and bra with sewn-in cups give you confident support in and out of the water. Tops and bottoms sold separately to ensure a perfect fit. Find it at Land’s End.

Problem #3: Upper arms (‘bat wings’)

Solution:  Cut high under the arms, sleeves.

Many bathing suits are cut low on the sides, which can accentuate flappy upper arms and breasts that overflow out of the cups on either side.  Bathing suits that are cut high under the arm and some new styles with sleeves are effective in reducing the appearance of underarm fat.

Away We Go Ruffle-Sleeve One-Piece Swimsuit

Swimsuit Bleu by Rod Beattie, at Macy's

For a swim look that’s timelessly chic, Bleu by Rod Beattie has you covered with this flutter-sleeve one piece. Find it at Macy’s.

La Blanca Off Shoulder Ruffle One Piece Swimsuit

Bold flower print swimsuit with ruffled off shoulder sleeve

Romantic ruffles draw attention to your collarbone, while a bold tropical print and side ruching help define your waist. A feminine take on a retro-inspired design, this one-piece swimsuit radiates iconic style. Find this suit and other color and print options on Amazon. Also available in plus sizes.

Tie Back Stripe Crop Rash Guard

Black and white crop top with short sleeves

From Kate Spade New York, this crewneck, short sleeve crop top has a back keyhole with a self-tie closure. In a sophisticated black and stripe pattern, it pairs with matching bottoms, sold separately.  Available at Bloomingdales.  Also at SwimOutlet.

Escalante Long Sleeve Swimsuit UPF 50+ by Coolibar

Coolibar sun-protective long-sleeved swimsuit

Arms are tucked into full-length sleeves with the sun-protective, UPF 50+ swimsuit from Coolibar. This high-performance suit has a fashionable front zip, sleek design and an ultra-flattering shape.  Find it at Coolibar.

Problem #4: Hips and Thighs

Solution: Suits with skirts or shorts

Hips and thighs are not kindly treated by time. They suffer the same gravitational pull as the rest of your body and are one of the places fat loves to accumulate creating unattractive pockets of cellulite. Yes, it’s not pretty, But there are very pretty swimsuits that hide these problems. And with some clever designs they draw the eye upward.

  • Tankini bottoms are available in many styles these days. Skirts can be ruffled, or sarong-style, or pleated. Land’s End and Anne Cole collections offer a variety of options.
  • We are seeing more one-piece suits with skirted bottoms as an alternative to tankinis.
  • Boy shorts and board shorts are fun and edgy and popular this year.

High-Neck Tankini with Skirt from L.L.Bean

LL Bean Tankini top with swim skirt

 

Tankinis with skirts keep hips and thighs under wraps while allowing for a good swim. This tankini top from L.L.Bean has subtle rouching on the sides that provide a flattering camouflaging effect.  It coordinates with Bean’s other swim styles so it’s easy to create your perfect suit. Top and skirt sold at L.L.Bean.

Magicsuit Beverly Skirted One-Piece Swimsuit

Magicsuit Beverly Skirted swimsuit

Cutaway shoulders define this one-piece with a flattering overlay that can be tied up or left loose for extra coverage. This suit features Magicsuit’s body-control slimming technology for a smooth look. Find it at Nordstrom. 

Magnolia Printed Twist-Detail Swim Dress

Swim dress, by Macy's

If you’re looking for stylish thigh coverage, look no further than this must-have swim dress from Island Escape. V-neck twist detail accents the front. Removable cups with underwire. Find it at Macy’s.

Ruched Tankini Top and High Waist Swim Skirt

Tankini top with front twist, Bleu by Rod Beattie

Capture a timelessly sleek swim look. Bleu by Rod Beattie‘s tankini top is designed in chic solid hues with a contemporary twist front. Pair with a matching swim skirt for a particularly stylish look. Pieces sold separately to ensure a perfect fit. Find it at Macy’s. 

La Blanca Paradise City 3″ Inseam Board Short

Tropicl patteren board shorts by La Blanca

Whether you’re relaxing on a boat or hiking to a waterfall these versatile boardshorts by La Blanca give you room to move while providing a little extra coverage. Pairs with solid bra or tankini tops or a variety of matching tops by La Blanca. Find it at LaBlanca.com.

Problem #5: Bum

Solution: Full bottom coverage

For many women over 60, the natural results of gravity have not been kind to our behinds.  Fortunately, there are plenty of swimsuits designed especially for women over 60.

  • Avoid high cut legs. They look great in front but not in the back.
  • A leg that fully encompasses the hip and top of the thigh holds wanton bottoms and provides an optimal sight line.
  • Boy shorts, board shorts, and tankinis with skirted bottoms are flattering and stylish.

SlenderSuit Tummy Wrap Swimsuit by Land’s End

Land's End V-neck swimsuit with bottom coverage 

This torso-slimming, bust-enhancing, leg-defining bathing suit is one of the  SlenderSuits® from Land’s End. Designed to slim and smooth, it comes in several vivid color options. Find it at Land’s End.

Panach Anya Riva Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit

Chill by the pool in this fiery red swimsuit by Panache. It offers comfortable support and lift without sacrificing fashion forward style. Full-bottom coverage and underwire bra. Find it at Walmart.

Scoop Neck Soft Cup Tugless One Piece Swimsuit

P:ink striped one piece swimsuit with D cup and full coverage bottom

Land’s End’s Tugless Tank® has been a long-time favorite for its flattering and fuss-free fit. Lower-cut leg openings for extra coverage and soft cup bra shapes and supports up to DDD cups. In a pretty wood lily/strawberry stripe. At Land’s End.

Shaping Swimwear Swim Skirt by L.L. Bean

Swim skirt by LL Bean

You can wear our shaping swim skirt with confidence – the flattering (not revealing) style offers comfort and good looks all day. With hidden power mesh panel for tummy control and a smooth, flattering fit. Pair it with one of the many Shaping Swimwear tops from L.L. Bean. Find it at L.L. Bean

Problem #6: Large Cup Size

Solution: Underwire support, tankinis, and skirted suits that draw attention away from the bust

While some may not consider this to be a problem, women with larger breasts– think C-cup and above–might disagree. Finding a swimsuit that supports and fits well, while showing the right amount of cleavage, is a real challenge. Swimwear makers have been stepping up with more choices available for the ample-bosomed woman.

Sweetheart Underwire Tankini from Island Escape

Hit the sand in style with this underwire tankini from Island Escape. It provides underwire support. Find it at Macy’s. 

Tankini Top and Soft Band Swim Skirt by Anne Cole

Tankini and swim skirt by Anne Cole

Unlock your classic beach style with this tankini and matching skirt from Anne Cole. Pair with your favorite sunglasses and floppy hat for a retro-inspired finish. Find it at Macy’s. 

D-Cup Shirred Underwire Tankini Top

Black frill top D cup tankini

Swimwear pro Gottex has a complete line of bathing suits for women with D to G cups. We love this sophisticated black D-cup underwire tankini top, with discreet ruffles along the neckline and shirring in the bodice and torso. Bra back with adjustable hook-and-eye closure. Pair with high waist tankini bottom or fluttery skirtGet it from Gottex.

V-Neck Tulip Hem Tankini Swimsuit Top

Blue floral DD cup tankini top

You’ll love this cheerful floral tankini. The built-in bra with removable inserts provides comfortable support while the straps can be adjusted to the perfect fit without digging into your shoulders–often a problem with larger breasts. The flattering tulip hemline moves with you and camouflages the tummy area. The fabric is chlorine resistant and has built-in UPF50. Available in cup sizes up to DDD. Find it at Land’s End.

Problem #7: Large Body

Solution: Plus-size fashion options

We gain weight as we age, from menopause on, for many reasons. That doesn’t mean we should hide in the shade. More and more swimsuits are being made with a woman’s larger body in mind.

  • All of the tips from above apply to the plus-size woman.
  • Darker colors provide contrast and are slimming. (The worst colors you can pick are light, neutral shades.)
  • Bold prints give a large body the right proportions.
  • Select cuts that elongate the body and draw the eye to your face.

V-Neck Ruffle Sleeve Slimming Monokini

Black and floral swimsuit with ruffle sleeve

This suit has all the ingredients for a flattering plus-sized suit. The dark background and bold floral print cover the midsection. Ruffled sleeves and a V-neck lengthen the neck and draw the eyes upward. Available at Walmart.

La Blanca Sunscape Lingerie One Piece Swimsuit

Colorful stripe La Blanca one piece swimsuit

The bands of bold color on this sleek and sophisticated suit will look perfect in any beachy setting. With a simple, classic silhouette, this one-piece flatters your figure with allover shirring. A scooped neckline reveals just the right amount of skin to keep your look sexy yet simple. Buy it at La Blanca.

Land’s End Square Neck Tankini Swimsuit Top

Land's End plus size tankini

Bright, bold color blocking is the star of this square neck tankini top. Chlorine resistant fabric helps keep its shape season after season and UPF 50 protects from harmful rays in and out of the water. Find it at Land’s End.

V-Neck Flowy Tankini Set

Blue patterned plus size tankini

An attractive two-piece tankini set ready for swimming and water sports. The geometric pattern transitions from an aqua green to lavender hues. The banded short has a wide elastic waistband and built-in brief. Mix and match sizes for a perfect fit. From Swimsuits for All.

Ralph Lauren Shirred One-Piece Swimsuit

One Piece swimsuit by Ralph Lauren

Graciously wrapped fabric accents the front of this plus size one-piece swimsuit from Ralph Lauren. Designed with a tropical-inspired print and a smoothing tummy-control panel. Find it at Macy’s. 

Problem #8: Mastectomy

Solution: Specially designed tops 

Women over 60 who have had mastectomies needn’t worry about finding a swimsuit that will make them feel confident and attractive. Specially designed swimsuits feature prosthesis pockets that provide secure support, adjustable straps and armholes with a higher cut.

Asian Garden Half-Bodice High Neck Swimsuit

Mastectomy swimsuit in blue and white

The stylish Asian Garden print swimsuit from Amoena has a high neckline with a tulle insert at the front, which discreetly protects skin irritations and hides scars. Smooth pocketed cups to hold an Aqua Wave swim prosthesis securely in place. Soft material with excellent UV protection 50+. Find it at Amoena.com.

Summer Blue Mastectomy Single Tier Tankini Top

Pembrooke’s Shape Solvere tankini top has a floral pattern in shades of blue on a black background.  Designed for post-mastectomy, the tankini top includes a pocketed bra for breast forms. The single tier works especially well for women who have not had reconstructive surgery. By Pembrooke for sale on Swimoutlet.

SlenderSuit V-Neck Skirted One Piece Swimsuit

Land's End v-neck skirted swimsuit

Like the best of vintage Hollywood, this flattering silhouette from Land’s End has a beautiful neckline. The drapey overlay provides coverage. It features a soft cup bra with prothesis pockets.  Find it at Land’s End.

Women’s Lanzorote Mastectomy One Piece Swimsuit

Leaf patterned mastectomy swimsuit

Amber palm leaves climb up the side of Ameone’s indigo blue swimsuit. The curved seam on the wire-free under bust band prevents your Aqua Wave swim breast form from moving sideways or falling out. Buy it on Ameone.com.

Grecian One Piece Swimsuit by Land’s End

Grecian one piece swimsuit by Land's End

Land’s End brought back the Grecian swimsuit by popular demand. It’s made of LYCRA® Xtra Life™ spandex so that it lasts up to 10 times longer than suits made with ordinary spandex. It provides the overall control of SlenderSuit with built in pockets for prothesis. Find it at Land’s End. 

Problem #9: Two-piece Bathing Suits

Solution: High waisted bottoms, fuller coverage tops

While our bodies have certainly changed throughout the decades, there’s no reason why we can’t wear a two-piece bathing suit that’s designed with women over 60 in mind.

Retro 50s Halter High Waist Bikini Set

Retro 50's high waist and halter bikini set

1950s Vintage swimsuit with ruching and full coverage high waist style. Halter top features slightly padded cups. Find it on Amazon.

Two Piece High Waisted Swimsuit with V-Neck Twist Front

Cupshe high-waisted bikini

Cupshe designs with a mind for the many different body shapes and sizes of the women who wear their swimsuits. This swimsuit is available in more than 25 colors. Find it on Amazon.

24th & Ocean Bali Batik Bikini Top and High Waist Bottoms

Bali print two-piece by LaBlanca

A beautiful midnight blue flower print makes up for the perfect beach wear bra. A surplice neckline with over-the-shoulder straps ensures a comfortable fit while offering support. Pair with high-waisted bottoms for a figure-flattering style. Tops and bottoms sold separately. Find it at La Blanca. 

Shapermint Ruched High Waisted Bikini Swimsuit

Shaermint high waist bikini bottom

This tummy control swimsuit bottom from Shapermint has a front tummy shaping panel with ruching. It is a versatile swim bottom that you can mix and match with any swimsuit top. The high wasted light compression smooths out the stomach, sides, and back providing full support. Available in black and burgundy. Find it on Amazon.

As an affiliate of various retailers, Blue Hare makes a commission on qualifying purchases made through the links on this page. 

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