The Mature Women's Swimwear Guide: Finding the Right Fit and Style

One-pieces are still my go-to because they’re easy and versatile. They also come in a surprising number of styles right now. So if your immediate mental image when you think “one-piece” is plain or boring or dated, it’s time for a refresh.

Today, you’ve got wrap silhouettes, asymmetrical necklines, strategic cutouts, textured fabrics, flattering square necklines, cool color blocking, and perfectly placed ruching. One-pieces can be sporty, sexy, elegant, minimal, or bold.

I love one-pieces because they are simple. It’s just one piece you can quickly grab and throw on—no searching around in drawers for a matching other half.

For support, I would look for built-in bras, adjustable straps, compression fabrics, and lining.

Tankinis for women over 50 might be the most genius category in swimwear. They offer the coverage of a one-piece with the flexibility of a two-piece, which is especially helpful if your top and bottom are different sizes.

You can also mix and match your styles depending on what you feel that day. For example, you can pair your tankini top with high-waisted bottoms, swim shorts, or even a swimskirt. That kind of flexibility is incredibly practical and it means you can create quite a few different looks with just a couple of pieces.

They might not always be the flashiest option, but tankinis certainly are versatile.

I understand why some people still hear “swim dress” and think “dated.” I get it. They haven’t really been the most popular choice in years but swim dresses for older women (and in general) have honestly had quite the glow-up. And they’re probably the most universally flattering swimsuit style out there.

Modern swim dresses have clean lines, built-in shaping and support, and cuts that feel stylish and beautiful. They’re great for anyone who wants more thigh coverage, a more modest style, or if you just like a lovely sundress silhouette. They also make it really easy to move easily from pool to patio without wanting to wrap a towel around yourself.

The key is choosing a style that just skims the body. We’re looking for lightness here. If there’s too much fabric, it’s going to feel heavy and won’t be so fun to swim in.

Bikinis do not have an expiration date. And this is something I feel very strongly about. If a two-piece makes you feel good, wear it. Confidence and comfort matter far more than age.

High-waisted bikinis are a top choice for older women because they offer coverage around the tummy area while still feeling fashionable and more playful than a one-piece. They’re not your only option though. You can choose from classic bikini bottoms, mid-rise, hipster styles, swim shorts, and skirts. It all depends on your comfort level, personal style, and what you love to see on your body.

This is also where separate sizing becomes a huge advantage. You can choose the top and bottom that each fit properly instead of trying to make one size work everywhere. I always avoid buying sets as one of the pieces always ends up being just slightly off.

Modest swimwear doesn’t have to mean bulky or matronly. High-neck swimsuits, rash guards, swim skirts, long-sleeve swimsuits, and swim shorts can all look modern when the design is clean and the fabric is high quality.

I look for sleek lines and thoughtful, comfortable necklines. Nothing heavy or with an excessive amount of fabric.

The same goes for color and print. According to the team at Parisian Haute Couture house On Aura Tout Vu, women are gravitating toward solid jewel tones and elegant botanical prints over loud geometrics, which feels much more aligned with the kind of swimwear I’m seeing my mom in now. It’s still chic, but it also works beautifully with the more practical things many women want from a swimsuit, like coverage and comfort.

Whether you want a little more coverage walking to the pool, something smart enough for lunch after the beach, or a few pieces that make packing for vacation simpler, these are the cover-ups and accessories that I think are worth having in your rotation:

• A linen button-down: This is my go-to cover-up because it works with almost everything. You can wear it open over a swimsuit or easily throw it on over a one-piece with shorts.
• A breezy kaftan or tunic: Perfect for days when you want a little more coverage without feeling overdressed. I love styles in lightweight cotton, gauze, or linen because they feel relaxed but still elegant.
• A sarong: This is one of the most versatile beachwear pieces you can pack. Tie it as a skirt, wrap it as a dress, or use it to add color to your fit.
• Wide-leg linen pants: If you want to create more of a resort-style outfit, this is the move. A textured one-piece with wide-leg pants, flat sandals, and a straw tote instantly looks chic.
• A lightweight shirt dress: This is great for travel because it works as a cover-up, a casual dress, or an easy layer over bathing suits.
• A polished beach bag: A straw tote, raffia bag, or waterproof canvas carryall instantly makes swimwear feel more styled. It’s a practical accessory (obviously) but it also helps everything together.
• Comfortable summer shoes: Slides, flat leather sandals, espadrilles, comfy wedges, or sporty-chic sandals can completely change the feel of a swimsuit look.
• Sun-smart accessories: Oversized sunglasses and a wide-brim hat are very practical from a sun protection point of view, of course. But they also add instant glamor. I love pairing them with a plain black swimsuit for an elegant look.