Feeling shy about hitting the beach or pool this summer? All you need is one of these super-cute swim cover-ups! These flattering styles mask the trouble spots you want to hide, without hiding the assets you’re happy to show off, so you can feel beautiful and confident all summer long.
Looking for the perfect swimsuit to wear underneath? Shop these picks for the best swimsuits for women over 50! And for more swim cover-ups, check out our roundup of gorgeous plus-size styles. (Another tip? Wearing matching colored swim bottoms helps “stretch” the body for bonus slimming!)
Belly bumps? Choose a halter ‘dress.’
Tying a sarong into a halter dress strategically covers up the torso and skims over lumps and bumps — all without adding bulk to the body. That’s because wrapping it around the neck (rather than tying it around the waist), creates a tapered, diagonal appearance that “stretches” the figure for a more statuesque silhouette. Look for one with fringe accents, which draw attention up and away from the midsection.
Thick waist? Try a belted romper.
Thanks to an elasticized belt that cinches the waist and carves out curves, a structured romper not only conceals a thicker-looking middle, it optically minimizes it too. What also helps: A romper with a deep V-neck acts like an arrow pointing in and down, creating the illusion of a tiny waist, while one with thigh-skimming , flared-hem shorts directs attention away from the middle and toward gorgeous gams instead.
Heavy thighs? Pick palazzo pants.
We love using pants as swim cover-ups! The thin, flowy fabric of this palazzo pair camouflages lower-body bothers, from cellulite and thigh jiggles to flabby skin and spider veins, while letting the breeze blow through. Tip: Opt for a high-waisted pair that features a bright and vertically oriented pattern.
This article originally appeared in our print magazine, First For Women.