Finding the best bathing suit for an apron belly can feel challenging, but the right swimsuit can accentuate your best features, offer support, and make you feel amazing at the beach or pool. Apron belly, also known as “panniculus,” is a lower abdominal overhang caused by weight loss, pregnancy, or natural body shape. Fortunately, several swimsuit designs cater to this body type, ensuring you feel comfortable, confident, and stylish. Here’s your ultimate guide to choosing the best bathing suits for an apron belly that check all the boxes: style, support, and body confidence.
Choosing the Best Bathing Suits for Women with an Apron Belly
This episode provides a comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect bathing suit for women with an apron belly. We discuss tummy control, coverage, and support options like one-piece suits, swim dresses, and high-waisted bikinis. Tune in to discover the key features to look for and recommendations for swimsuit brands that cater to various body types.
1. Understanding the Apron Belly and Swimwear Needs
An apron belly generally requires a swimsuit that offers tummy control, proper coverage, and flattering designs. The key features to look for include:
- Tummy control panels: These smooth the stomach area, providing compression.
- High-waisted bottoms: These help to hold in the lower belly while adding an hourglass shape.
- Ruching: Gathered fabric helps to camouflage the stomach area.
- Wrap-style tops: These create a flattering silhouette, drawing attention upward.
- Full coverage and support: Ensure comfort without sacrificing style.
Each of these features is designed to keep you feeling supported while still looking chic.
2. Best Swimsuit Styles for an Apron Belly
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best types of swimsuits for women with an apron belly.
2.1. Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuits
One-piece swimsuits with built-in tummy control panels are some of the best options for women with apron belly. These swimsuits feature compression fabrics that provide a smoother silhouette, offering more support.
Top Pick:
The Spanx Pique Shaping Plunge One-Piece is a top-rated swimsuit for full-body shaping. It offers 360-degree compression, creating a sleek look. The plunging neckline also helps draw attention away from the midsection, making it a fantastic option for those looking to highlight other areas(Very Easy Makeup)(Today’s Parent).
How to Hide Apron Belly
2.2. Swim Dresses
Swim dresses provide excellent coverage for the belly area while maintaining a feminine, stylish look. They are great for women who prefer more coverage for their thighs and hips in addition to their stomachs.
Top Pick:
The COCOPEAR Swim Dress is a fan favorite for hiding both the apron belly and other problem areas like the thighs and hips. Its flared skirt adds a fun, flattering touch while keeping the midsection discreet(Very Easy Makeup).
2.3. High-Waisted Bikinis
High-waisted bikinis are incredibly trendy and provide a perfect balance between showing some skin and offering full coverage where needed. These bottoms sit right at or above the belly button, giving the stomach area more coverage and support while still being stylish.
Top Pick:
The COCOSHIP Retro High-Waisted Bikini is a popular choice, offering a vintage vibe while delivering tummy control. The high waistline and ruched design work together to hide and smooth the apron belly(Very Easy Makeup)(I am Style-ish).
Best Shapewear for Apron Tummy
3. Key Features to Look for When Shopping
When shopping for the perfect swimsuit, there are some specific features to keep in mind:
3.1. Ruching
Ruching is your best friend when it comes to disguising the apron belly. This gathered fabric adds texture and movement to the swimsuit, providing coverage and drawing the eye away from the belly.
Recommendation:
A SHEKINI One Piece Ruched Retro Swim Dress offers an elegant ruched design that smoothens the lower belly, creating a slimming effect(Very Easy Makeup)(I am Style-ish).
3.2. Tummy Control Panels
Tummy control panels are built into many swimsuits to provide light to medium compression, which helps smooth out the lower abdomen area. Look for swimsuits that mention tummy control as a specific feature.
Recommendation:
The Amazon Essentials Plunge Tummy Control Swimsuit is both affordable and effective. It uses Spandex to provide tummy compression while maintaining a comfortable fit(Today’s Parent).
3.3. High Waistline
A high waistline is one of the most flattering cuts for anyone with an apron belly. It holds in the stomach area while elongating your figure.
Recommendation:
Look for high-waisted bikini bottoms like the Upopby High Waisted Tummy Control Tankini Bottoms, which offer full coverage and a high-waisted fit that covers the belly button for maximum support(Very Easy Makeup).
How to Hide Apron Belly in Jeans
4. Tips for Maximizing Confidence
Finding the right swimsuit is only part of the journey to feeling good on the beach. Here are some tips to boost your confidence:
4.1. Choose Dark Colors and Bold Patterns
Dark colors such as black or navy tend to have a slimming effect. If you prefer something more vibrant, opt for bold patterns like florals or abstract prints, which distract from the belly area.
4.2. Accentuate the Upper Body
A plunging neckline or detailed top helps draw attention upward, away from the belly. Swimsuits with embellishments, ruffles, or interesting necklines are great for focusing attention elsewhere.
4.3. Try a Wrap Style
Just like a wrap dress, a wrap-style swimsuit flatters your figure by creating a defined waistline and hiding extra volume around the belly. The wrap style adds sophistication while balancing your proportions.
4.4. Look for Adjustable Straps
Adjustable straps ensure a better fit, helping to avoid shifting or discomfort throughout the day. This is especially important for larger-busted women who need extra support.
5. Top Swimsuit Brands for Apron Belly
Here are some swimsuit brands that consistently deliver flattering, stylish, and supportive swimwear for women with an apron belly:
- Summersalt: Known for their flattering cuts and wide range of sizes (2-22), Summersalt is a go-to for high-quality, stylish swimsuits(Very Easy Makeup).
- Spanx: A leader in shapewear, Spanx swimsuits are designed with compression in mind, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to smooth out their midsection(Today’s Parent).
- COCOSHIP: If you’re after a retro vibe, COCOSHIP offers stylish high-waisted bikinis that flatter your curves(I am Style-ish).
- Adore Me: With extended sizes (XS-4X) and trendy designs, Adore Me provides both style and comfort for plus-sized women(Today’s Parent).
6. Conclusion
The best bathing suit for an apron belly is one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and stylish. Whether you prefer a classic one-piece, a trendy high-waisted bikini, or a flowy swim dress, there are plenty of options available that offer both support and style. Look for features like tummy control, ruching, and high waistlines to ensure a flattering fit. With these tips and swimsuit recommendations, you’ll be ready to hit the beach or pool feeling your best!
Best Jeans for Apron Belly
Quick Comparison Table of Swimsuit Options:
| Swimsuit Type | Top Pick | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tummy Control One-Piece | Spanx Pique Shaping Plunge One-Piece | 360-degree shaping, compression |
| High-Waisted Bikini | COCOSHIP Retro High-Waisted Bikini | High waist, ruched design |
| Swim Dress | COCOPEAR Swim Dress | Flared skirt, covers hips and thighs |
| Budget Option | Amazon Essentials Plunge Tummy Control | Affordable, tummy control, adjustable straps |
FAQs on Best Bathing Suits for Apron Belly
What is an apron belly, and why do I need a specific bathing suit for it?
An apron belly, also known as a pannus stomach, occurs when the lower abdominal area hangs down, often due to weight gain, pregnancy, or aging. Finding a bathing suit that offers comfort, support, and coverage is essential for this body type to enhance confidence and ensure the fit is flattering.
What type of swimsuit is best for an apron belly?
The best bathing suits for an apron belly often feature high-waisted bottoms, tummy control panels, or ruched fabric. One-piece swimsuits or tankinis with these elements offer added support and coverage, making them ideal for this body shape.
How can I feel confident in a swimsuit with an apron belly?
Confidence in a bathing suit starts with choosing one that fits well and feels comfortable. Look for styles that provide tummy control, extra coverage, and support. Dark colors, flattering prints, and ruching can help enhance your figure and boost your self-esteem.
Are there bathing suits that hide the lower belly?
Yes, many bathing suits are designed to hide the lower belly. High-waisted bikinis, one-pieces with tummy control panels, and suits with strategic ruching or draping can help conceal the lower abdominal area while providing a smooth silhouette.
What is the best fabric for swimsuits for an apron belly?
Swimsuits made from spandex, Lycra, or nylon blends with compression properties are great for an apron belly. These fabrics offer stretch while providing firm support and shaping, helping to smooth the tummy area for a flattering fit.
Can I wear a bikini if I have an apron belly?
Absolutely! High-waisted bikinis are a popular option for those with an apron belly, as they offer both coverage and style. Look for tops that provide extra support and bottoms that sit above the belly button for a comfortable and confident look.
What are the best swimsuit brands for plus-size women with apron bellies?
Some of the best brands that offer flattering swimsuits for apron bellies and plus-size women include:
Miraclesuit: Known for their tummy control features and figure-enhancing designs.
Swimsuits for All: Offers a wide range of sizes and styles tailored for different body types.
Land’s End: Provides swimsuits with extra coverage and support, specifically for plus-size figures.
Do tummy control swimsuits really work for apron bellies?
Yes, tummy control swimsuits are designed to offer firm support and compress the tummy area, which can help smooth and flatten the appearance of an apron belly. Look for suits with built-in panels or shapewear features for the best results.
How can I prevent chafing or discomfort in a swimsuit with an apron belly?
To prevent chafing, choose swimsuits with a soft, high-quality lining and avoid tight seams around the belly area. You can also use anti-chafing creams or powders on areas prone to friction. Opting for a swimsuit with a looser fit around the waist may help, too.
Are tankinis a good option for women with an apron belly?
Yes, tankinis can be a great option! They provide the modesty and coverage of a one-piece while offering the flexibility of a two-piece. Many tankinis also come with high-waisted bottoms that provide additional support to the lower belly.
