When it comes to choosing a swimsuit—or any other clothing, for that matter—we often think about selecting it based on our body type. But what about choosing a swimsuit based on your age? Can you still wear a bikini at 40 or 50? What are the ideal swimsuits for women in their 30s? While it’s obviously important to consider your body type when buying a swimsuit, should you also take your age into account? We’ll share all our tips in this article.
Swimsuits for Women in Their 20s and 30s
If you’re a woman in your 20s or 30s, now’s the time to be bold! You’re young, and you can pull off many different types of swimsuits:
The bikini: It consists of a triangle bikini top and high-cut bottoms that are usually tied at the sides. In terms of body type, it looks especially good on women with smaller busts.
The push-up swimsuit: The top often has padding, which is perfect for adding volume to smaller busts. It’s also suitable for women with a fuller bust, as it enhances your figure while providing support and real comfort.
The underwire balconette swimsuit: This is ideal for women with a large bust because it provides all the support you need and really highlights your breasts. Opt for one with fairly wide straps if your bust size is very large. To see all our available styles, feel free to browse the “balconette swimsuits” category.
The bandeau swimsuit: It comes in underwired or non-underwired styles and may also feature removable straps. It’s suitable for women with a generous bust. For those with a smaller bust, this swimsuit style is not recommended.
High-waisted bottoms: Paired with a bandeau or push-up top, they’re perfect for curvy young women and give them a very trendy retro look.
Don’t underestimate the one-piece swimsuit! It’s back in style and, depending on the cut, can be very sexy. To achieve this, opt for a one-piece with a plunging V-neckline or a daring open-back design, for example. Today, there are many styles available in a wide variety of looks: retro, chic, or sporty. Not to mention the ruffles, pearls, and sequins that add a touch of flair to the swimsuit. The key is to choose one that flatters your body type. If you’re not sure what your body type is, feel free to read our article on the subject. When it comes to colors or prints, again, don’t hold back. Whether it’s passionate red or azure blue, brands now offer a wide variety of styles.
And what about the trikini? We say yes! When you’re in your 20s or 30s, it’s the perfect time to be daring—and if there’s one swimsuit that’s original, trendy, and sexy, it’s definitely the trikini. This one-piece swimsuit reveals much more of your body because the top and bottom are connected only by a thin strip of fabric across the stomach. This leaves your back and hips exposed.
What swimsuit should you wear after 40?
You’re over 40. You’re certainly no longer a teenager, but you’re still young and beautiful, and you can absolutely pull off any type of swimsuit. You just need to choose the right style.
So, after 40, it’s best to wear a swimsuit top that provides support and lift for your breasts. So opt for underwire or balconette swimsuits, or push-up styles. If you have a smaller bust, you can still wear a bikini to highlight your décolletage.
As for one-piece swimsuits, you can wear whatever you like here, too. A strapless one-piece swimsuit will highlight your bust and also leave your shoulders bare. Not only is it very feminine, but it will also help you get an even tan. It’s a swimsuit that’s also easy to pair with beachwear, such as a dress or a sarong. The height of chic would be to choose it in white or a pale color. It’s not so much the shape as the style. In fact, certain prints tend to make you look younger or, conversely, more mature.
To learn more, read our article “What Swimsuit to Wear at 40.”
What Swimsuit Should You Choose at 50?
These days, your 30s are the new 20s. The same goes for older age groups. So if you’re in your 50s and your figure allows it, take the plunge! Whether you choose a two-piece or a one-piece, you should again base your choice on your body shape.
At 50, you may have had children, and your abdomen may have lost a bit of firmness. If you want to conceal a little belly, a shapewear one-piece swimsuit is the one for you, as its sculpting fabric will help slim your figure. There are some really beautiful styles available today that don’t look old-fashioned at all. When it comes to colors, it’s well known that black is slimming, but there’s no reason you can’t go for brighter colors or prints. As for two-piece swimsuits, you can opt for high-waisted bottoms, which will have the same effect.
If you have wider hips, you’ll want to balance out your figure by adding volume to your upper body. In that case, you can definitely wear a bikini with a ruffled or frilled top.
I’m 60 or older—which swimsuit should I choose?
After 60, you might no longer feel comfortable wearing a bikini or a swimsuit that’s too revealing. It’s entirely up to you. If you’re one of those women in their sixties who prefer a more modest look, you can opt for a tankini. It’s a two-piece swimsuit that looks like a one-piece. The top extends all the way down to the bottom without being attached to it. This way, you can pull it up at any time to sunbathe comfortably. A practical 2-in-1 swimsuit that lets you feel just as comfortable at home by your pool as you do at a crowded beach.
Don’t overlook accessories either—they can be great allies, adding a chic touch, such as a kaftan or poncho. Choose one made from luxurious fabrics like silk, for example, and you’ll be the epitome of elegance.
In summary
Ultimately, your age shouldn’t matter when choosing a swimsuit. Whether you’re a teenager, a young woman, or a woman of a certain age, you should choose one based on your body type, but also—and most importantly—on your personal taste and comfort. The most important thing is to feel comfortable by the water. From triangle tops to bandeau styles (with or without straps), there’s no shortage of swimsuit styles to choose from. Want more tips? Feel free to check out our other articles.