How To Find Swimwear That Actually Fits You Properly

When it comes to sashaying along the sand, the only thing you need to look and feel your best is confidence - and that all comes down to finding swimwear that fits you properly. If you’re worried that your swimsuit is digging in or that you’re about to fall out of your bikini top, of course you’re not going to feel your best. 

Finding great-fitting swimwear that flatters can take you from ‘too scared to drop your towel’ to total seaside gorgeousness in the time it takes to eat a popsicle. But, tracking it down? Well, that can feel a bit like searching for the lycra holy grail. 

Relax, beach babes. Pour Moi has all the swimwear sizing tips you need to bag yourself a winner. Should you go for a size up in swimwear, or down? Go for separates or risk an off-the-peg? And could Instagram be useful for something other than seeing what your favourite influencers ate for breakfast? Our swimwear size guide has all the answers. 

For more sizing tips read our swimwear guide and how to find the best bikini for your body shape. 

If you’re shopping on the high street, it’s tempting to be lured in by the high-fashion styles on offer. But if your size is above a C, buying swimwear that’s measured in cup (as opposed to dress) sizes is necessary. 

Choosing a cup sized swimsuit or bikini top means you’ll get the same level of comfort you’d get from your normal lingerie. Both cup-size bikini tops and bra size swimming costumes are more likely to boast features like underwire and light padding, something that can help support a larger bust and even give you some extra oomph if you’re smaller. 

However, if you’re used to buying your swimwear in dress sizes, it could leave you a little confused. Use the swimwear size chart below for a quick reference. 

Remember though, that when it comes to swimming costumes, this isn’t a fixed rule. We’re all different in terms of shapes and height (you may be particularly long or short in the body for example) so while you’ll still need to choose your swimsuit by bra size you may need to size up or down to find the perfect fit. 

Bigger in the bust? Read our blog post on how to find the best swimwear for you. 

Unless you know for certain that you’re the same size on the top and the bottom, step away from that off-the-peg bikini set because you’re setting yourself up for sizing disappointment. But cheer up, because rather than narrowing your options, going mix and match gives you a much better chance of finding your perfect bikini bottoms to suit your shape. If you need some more inspiration on choosing the best swimwear styles to suit your shape, check out our dedicated blog.

For example, you may love the Azure Halter Lightly Padded Underwired Bikini Top in black. And, if you do, you’ll have the choice of not one but three matching bikini briefs. Then it’s simply a case of picking the one that will suit you the best from the Azure Fold Over Brief, the Azure Tie Side Brief or even the high fashion, Madrid Super High-Waist Tummy Control Brief.

This is a hard one, and it really comes down to personal preference. As a rule, we’d advise you to go for your usual bra size when you’re buying a bikini or swimsuit, at least as a starting point. But we’re also aware that people don’t want their usual lingerie to fit when it comes to their swimwear in case it leaves them feeling too exposed when they’re relaxing on the beach. Some people like to size up to ensure they get good rear coverage in their bikini briefs, or to make sure their swimsuits are comfortable. 

If this sounds like you, try this swimwear sizing strategy. Go up one back size bigger than your normal bra, while selecting one cup size smaller, to ensure you keep the same volume in the cup. For example, if you usually wear a 36E bra size but want more room in the body of your swimming costume, try a 38DD. Just remember though, this might affect the level of support you get. 

You also need to remember that all swimwear stretches slightly over time, and baggy bikini bottoms and swimsuits will no longer be flattering and may become uncomfortable. Excess material will eventually become a nuisance, leaving you feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious. The last thing you want is to have to adjust your swimwear constantly while you're trying to relax in the sun. Buying your exact size (or even, shock horror, a size smaller) can be slimming, so try it.

We've designed our swimwear with flattering features such as ruching, adjustable straps and adjustable briefs to support all your needs. So there's no need to worry about how your swimwear fits, all that's left for you to do is to relax, sit back and sip a cocktail on your lounger in the sun. With these clever fit features there'll be less chance you’ll have to check out our swimwear returns policy.

Ruching doesn’t just add interest and femininity to your one pieces, it’s magic when it comes to making them fit, too. With more material on offer, there’s lots more give. That’s why ruched styles, such as the Ruched Pleated Control Swimsuit, are perfect for complimenting and enhancing your natural silhouette. This figure flattering swimsuit with tummy control panels features ruched panels and a gorgeous V-neckline with a beautiful shape. With an inner shelf support and adjustable straps this must-have swimsuit will keep you supported and feeling confident all day.

The more adjustable the straps on your swimwear, the more chance you’ll find your perfect fit. Some of Pour Moi’s swimsuits and bikinis go the extra mile by offering two straps that you can tweak, instead of just one. Take the Santa Cruz Underwired Non-Padded Adjustable Top. This classic bikini with adjustable straps is a must-have for your next holiday. The shoulder straps adjust normally, but you can also tie the halter neck as tight or as loose as you like. If you're looking for an all-over adjustable swimwear look, match the Santa Cruz Underwired Non-Padded Adjustable Top with the Santa Cruz High-Leg Adjustable Side Brief. For another adjustable swimwear look from the Santa Cruz collection match the Santa Cruz Underwired Non-Padded Adjustable Top or Santa Cruz Underwired Strapless Bandeau Tankini Top with the Santa Cruz Adjustable Skirted Brief. For another way to wear your bikini, choose the Space Frill Hidden Wire Convertible Bikini Top that can be worn as a supportive cross back.

Thought it was just shoulder straps that could be adjusted to fit? Some bikini tops and swimming costumes have removable cups, too. The Sahara Removable Padded Non-Wired Halter Top has removable padded cups so you can decide if you want to wear the style padded or non-padded. Pair with the Sahara High-Leg Tab V-Shape Brief for a flattering look.

Find the perfect fitting bikini bottoms when you choose a style with adjustable features, such as the Paradiso Tie Side Bikini Brief which you can adjust to suit your type of coverage and fit. Match with the Paradiso Lightly Padded Underwired Front Tie Top for a beautiful swimwear look. If you like bikini bottoms that show off your body then you'll love the Mykonos Adjustable Side Brief featuring a side adjuster to wear however you feel comfortable. Match the Mykonos Cowl Neck Underwired Bikini Top if you prefer more coverage on the top.

Instagram is an endless source of swimwear style inspiration, but did you know it can help you find your perfect fit, too? Visit Pour Moi’s Instagram page and you’ll see lots of real women wearing our swimsuits. It’s a fantastic way of checking how your chosen bikini looks on a variety of different body shapes, and find out how other women are styling them, too. 

Finding your perfect fit in swimwear is easy when you shop with Pour Moi. Choose from hundreds of different shapes, sizes, and styles. Remember, if you don’t love it, you can send it back and we’ll exchange it or give you a refund, provided it's in its original condition and packaging, unworn, unwashed and with all labels attached. For more inspiration shop our bestselling swimwear styles below.