25 Best Tummy Control Swimsuits 2023

The best tummy-control swimsuits serve a variety of needs, whether you want extra support in the midsection, are postpartum or just like a shapewear effect. This kind of swimwear creates a sleek, fitted look, but to be honest, is not always the most comfortable. Whether you’re considering a top, bottom or one-piece, the cut and design really matters. A high-waisted style with ruching, for example, contours without constricting you, and fabrics like Lycra and spandex are stretchy and flexible.

The best tummy-control swimsuits combine performance fabrics with comfortable fits.

To find the best tummy-control swimsuits, I researched the market and gathered a complete list of recommendations. I personally tested some of the most popular brands and styles to see which suits offered the highest level of support and comfort, and spoke to an activewear buyer as well as a textile expert. From Spanx’s Pique Shaping Plunge One Piece to tankinis like Summersalt’s The Oasis Tankini Top and bottoms like Swimsuits For All Shirred High Waist Swim Brief, there are options for all body types and needs. I also took budget into consideration; the most affordable pick here, Cupshe’s One Piece Swimsuit Tummy Control, costs just $33. Here are all my recommendations:

Spanx

Sizes: XS-3X | Colors: Very Black | Materials: 80% Nylon, 20% Lycra elastane | Return policy: Free returns within 90 days

Spanx is a reliable leader in the shapewear market and their swimwear holds up to extensive testing and user reviews. The bestselling one-piece is made with a double layer fabric, which smoothes the midsection without digging into your skin. The straps stay put and the back and bottom offer the right amount of coverage but doesn’t feel too restrictive. Also great: The high-quality fabric is chlorine- and saltwater-resistant. Keep in mind: It’s a simple, no-frills silhouette.

What the reviews say: “This suit greatly exceeded my hopes. I was not sure it would do the trick with the slimming of the tummy section that I was hoping for. It more than did the trick! It seriously flatters in all the right places. It lifts the butt, slims the belly and also enhances the chest area. The material is thick compression fabric. It is a simple design but does exactly what you want…worth every penny.” —Spanx

Stylest

Sizes: XS-2X | Colors: 7 total, including Hot Pepper and Caviar | Materials: 57% polyamide, 43% elastane | Return policy: Free returns within 21 days, minus $9 restocking fee

Stylest was founded by a former fashion editor and emphasizes ultra-flattering designs. The bestselling Sculpting Square Neck is made with a proprietary French fabric that has four times the amount of compression than other suits. The tank also has a built-in shelf bra, a medium rise leg and UPF 50+ protection. Forbes Vetted’s senior fashion editor tested out this pick and considers it a go-to for its tummy-control features and a stylish fit.

What our editor says: “The fabric that the brand uses is super high quality—thick enough to hold you but also flexible enough so you can move around easily. I love that you can pair this suit with the matching swim belt as well as the brand’s chic cover-ups.”

Amazon

Sizes: XS-22Plus | Colors: 31 total, including Blue Striped and Black | Materials: 82% Nylon, 18% spandex | Return policy: Free returns

Eomenie’s high-waisted suit has rushing around the midsection for a flattering effect and a crisscross band below the bustline to provide subtle lift. The cutout design also has a back-tie knot so you can adjust the fit of this top bestseller on Amazon, which has more than 6,000 reviews.

What the reviews say: “Larger busted women struggle to find one piece suits that actually support. This one almost does it. The straps that go over the shoulder are adjustable which helps customize the fit, unfortunately the tie in the back is not attached to the crisscross material in front so you can’t make it tighter or add any lift. Still fits, but that one detail would’ve made this suit perfect. The ruching in front is amazing, hides flaws.” —Amazon

Target

Sizes: XS-24 | Colors: Black, Green | Materials: 82% Nylon, 18% spandex | Return policy: Free returns or exchanges within 90 days

Kona Sol is Target’s highly-rated, size-inclusive swimwear line. This suit’s subtly gathered ruched detailing on the stomach enhances your waist for a flattering effect while the full bottom and cups provide coverage and support. The one-shoulder design also adds interest, and comes with adjustable strap. Keep in mind: This one-piece only comes in two colors.

What the reviews say: “This is a such a great suit. I was a bit skeptical about the tummy conrol thing but it is really well designed suit. It looks very flattering, and the [bottom] has nice coverage (not too much or too little). I am excited to wear it.”

Amazon

Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 19 total, including Black and Green | Materials: 80% Chinlon (a type of nylon), 20% spandex | Return policy: Free returns within 30 days of delivery

Cupshe specializes in affordable swimwear with built-in shaping. This suit is their most popular—it has more than 23,000 reviews and a 4.5 star rating—with a tummy-control front and shirring detail that conceals any bulges. Keep in mind: The bottom is not full coverage and some reviewers experienced color fading over time.

What our writer says: “It's lightweight, easy to put on and extremely comfortable. I love that it has lightly padded cups and adjustable straps, making it my perfect go-to. I'm obsessed with my classic black suit but it comes in 28 colors and patterns. Plus, at under $35, it's affordable and well worth the money.”

TA3SWIM

Sizes: XS-3X | Colors: 8 total, including Black and Sapphire| Materials: Nylon-spandex blend | Return policy: Free returns within 30 days

TA3 Swim’s Lacey suit has a unique lace-up back with strings that you can pull tightly (or less tightly) to define your waist. It also comes in long and short torso versions and since the fabric has a matte finish, you wear this as both a swimsuit and bodysuit. Keep in mind: Although the suit is stretchy yet it can be difficult to pull on, and you might need an extra help adjusting the back.

What our writer says: “After having a baby, TA3 suits have become my best friend. They are a splurge, but the suits are super thick, well made and cinch your waist like nothing I've ever tried before. The shoulder straps are adjustable and the compression fabric just makes my whole body feel secure and supported. I have this suit in multiple styles, and have worn it as a swimsuit, bodysuit, and shapewear.”

Nordstrom

Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: Black | Materials: 95% Polyester, 5% spandex | Return policy: Free shipping and returns

Norma Kamali is known for her retro-classic swimsuits that are extremely flattering and made to last. This suit has a ruched tummy area as well as an elongated front panel that provides full coverage to the hips. With its halter neck and chic design, it almost looks like a dress, which is great for a beach vacation or party. Keep in mind: The straps are not adjustable.

What the reviews say: “Took a chance and bought this suit on line. Love the fabric softness and the modest fit. Halter sweetheart neckline has me channeling the 1940s. Love the ruching and coverage over my cheeks. The only disappointment—it has no padded cups.” —Nordstrom

Hermoza

Sizes: 2-14 | Colors: 20 total, including Basil and Black| Materials: 72% Polyester, 28% elastane | Return policy: $8 return fee or free exchanges

Hermoza creates modest swimsuits that prove full coverage designs have plenty of style potential. They’re known for working with high-quality materials that are stretchy yet retain their shape, with a thick weight and opaque design that isn’t see-through. The Genevieve has a waist tie for tummy control, and a built-in shelf bra and higher neckline for sun protection. Keep in mind: Sizing only goes up to 14.

What our writer says: “This suit gives enough coverage so I can move around freely, but there is also something sexy and feminine about the halter neckline that I really love. The adjustable tie at the waist allows you to move it directly over the area you want to minimize. The ribbed fabric of the suit is soft and the texture gives it a cool and unique look.”

Miraclesuit

Sizes: 6-16 | Color: 6 total, including Black and Scotch | Materials: 81% Nylon, 19% Lycra elastane | Return policy: Free returns

Miraclesuit’s stylish ruched panel over the lower stomach gives extra coverage where you want it and also adds interest. A snug fit provides control and the built-in shelf keeps you secure. Keep in mind: Size up for a more relaxed fit.

What the reviews say: “This is a beautiful suit, Fits well, nice material covers me where I need it to. I am going to enjoy wearing this suit.” —Amazon

Swimsuits For All

Sizes: 4-26 | Colors: 9 total, including Deep Sea and Blue | Materials: 82% Nylon, 18% spandex | Return policy: Free exchanges or store credit within 60 days; full refund minus shipping label fee

Swimsuits For All designs their swimwear to flatter all body shapes and sizes. Their tummy-control collection includes suits made with specific features, including a power mesh lining that smooths the midsection and stay-put seams that have been motion tested to not ride up.

What the reviews says: “Most flattering, most comfortable swimsuit I’ve ever owned. I love it more than I thought possible. It’s modern, stylish, and a little bit sexy. Absolutely perfect for an hourglass figure.” —Swimsuits For All

Left On A Friday

Sizes: S-L | Color: 36 total, including Sweet Chili Heat and Jet | Materials: 46% Nylon, 38% polyester, 16% Lycra | Return policy: Free returns within 21 days of delivery

Left On A Friday combines shapewear details with fashion-forward features. You can mix and match bikini separates, such as the Hi Tide Bottoms, which hold you in with a high waist and medium-cut leg (pair it with the matching top). Bikinis are made from a compressive fabric that smooths with a blend of nylon and Lycra that’s, as the brand says, “insanely comfortable.”

What the reviews says: “I haven’t worn a two piece in years before this purchase. I’ve always had a tummy and am overall pretty square. This bottom provides the perfect coverage and I’ve gotten so many compliments.” —Left On A Friday

Amazon

Sizes: XS-22Plus | Colors: 39 total, including Deep Blue and Black Green Leaves | Materials: 85% polyester, 15% spandex | Return policy: Free returns

There’s a lot to like about Tempt Me’s bikinis, which include chic flouncy tops that artfully conceal your midsection and high-rise bottoms cut from an elastic fabric with smoothing powers. The bikinis come in dozens of fun prints and colors, and the prices can’t be beat—all of the sets come with the top and bottom and cost $33 or less.

What the reviews say: “I order a new Tempt Me suit every summer! They're the only brand on Amazon that I've found to be consistently true to size, have a high enough waist for my liking, and be made with quality material that isn't see-through and doesn't rip. Plus, I feel like their suits are actually cut in a way that is flattering for girls who aren't models!” —Amazon

Summersalt

Sizes: 2-22 | Colors: Sea Urchin, Deep Sea | Materials: 78% Recycled polyamide, 22% elastane | Return policy: Free exchanges and store credit within 30 days of delivery date; $8 fee for refunds

Summersalt translated their wildly popular expertise with one-piece swimsuits to this tankini, which has built-in compression to smooth your stomach and bra cups for another layer of support. Pair with the matching swim bottoms for a coordinated look. Keep in mind: The tank only comes in two colors.

What the reviews say: “This tankini top is the most flattering, supportive yet lightweight miracle of a bathing suit I have ever had. I have 2. I would buy one in every color if it were possible.” —Summersalt

Swimsuits for All

Sizes: 4-34 | Colors: 9 total, including Black and Fuchsia | Materials: 82% Nylon, 18% spandex | Return policy: Free exchanges or store credit within 60 days; full refund minus shipping label fee

The shirred detailing on these high-waisted briefs camouflages any bumps or bulges, creating a slimming effect. There’s also a full-coverage bottom and power mesh front panel that lends extra control. Keep in mind: Since it has delicate gathered seams, it’s best to hand wash this item and avoid the dryer.

What the reviews say: “Love these bottoms, they cover very well and are high quality, in my opinion. Ran true to size. I felt like I could move freely.” —Swimsuits For All

Kindred Bravely

Sizes: S-1X | Colors: 4 total, including Coastal Stripe and Black | Materials: 85% Recycled polyester, 15% spandex | Return policy: Returns within 90 days

This incredibly stretchy suit can be used through various stages—from pregnancy to postpartum to nursing. It has an adjustable tie front to define your waist or baby bump and has a nursing-friendly crossover cut. There’s a shelf bra with removable padding and an outer layer that wraps around the bust and ties at the side for a flatting effect. Just untie and pull aside the inner layer to nurse. Keep in mind: It’s only available up to size 1X.

What our writer says: “Some maternity suits really look like maternity suits. This isn't one of them. I am four years postpartum and I'm still confidently wearing this suit. Why? It's well-made, flattering, has a cute and feminine ruffle detail and adjustable shoulder straps for optimal comfort. The double lined design and slightly ruched waist is great for moms or anyone. I have it in green and am thinking of getting the blue gingham as well—it's so perfect for vacation.”

There is no one perfect swimsuit, so if the options above don’t match your needs, we also rounded up a variety of highly-rated options you might want to consider as well.

Summersalt

Over 6,700 reviewers agree: Summersalt’s Sidestroke has a compressive, yet comfortable, fit. It’s available in both solids and bright colorblocking and also comes in a long torso fit. Diagonal seaming helps create a contoured shape, while the one-shoulder cut takes the one piece’s style up a notch.

Left On Friday

The Double Scoop Suit from Left On Friday offers a smoothing fit with its compressive, soft and durable Italian fabric. The wide, stay-put straps offer more support for both swimming and lounging. One reviewer said it gave her bust “a little lift and cover[ed] any extra skin where there might normally be a roll or fold that shows.” It’s also available in regular and long torso lengths.

Andie

Andie’s highly-rated Malibu One Piece has a simple silhouette with a slimming, compressive fit. The fabric holds you in while the removable cups allow for a customized level of support. Multiple reviewers love the unique snap-front neckline that instantly takes the look from sporty to sexy.

Swimsuits For All

Swimsuits For All’s tankini set offers bust support and a fuller coverage, sporty bottom. The sweetheart neckline creates a slimming effect and the front zipper design has a compressive effect. The top and a-line skirt—with built-in brief—are made of a chlorine-resistant Spandex that retains its shape 5 to 10 times longer than other swim fabrics.

Nordstrom

L Space’s Balboa Tie Waist One-Piece Swimsuit touts a textured nylon-Spandex blend fabric, tailored front seams and a square neckline that shows off your curves while offering support. The adjustable tie-front waist cinches to your needs while a high cut leg and cheeky back fit elongate your legs.

Miraclesuit

Miraclesuit’s Gandolf One Piece “holds you in in the right places and improves your figure,” according to one reviewer. A sweetheart neckline and keyhole cutout add a hint of glam while shirring at the midline accentuates your curves by lifting and supporting your body.

Land's End

Land’s End offers many tummy-tucking swimsuit options in both regular and plus sizing. The Slendersuit Carmela One Piece is made of a firming, long-lasting fabric that smooths while draping at the neckline and waist gracefully enhances curves. A hidden underwire bra and unique crisscross back strap design offer extra bust support.

J.Crew

J.Crew improved their popular Ruched Bandeau One-Piece with a special eco-fabric that incorporates recycled nylon and a recycled polyester lining. The full-coverage bottom suit comes in sizes 0 to 24—in classic and long torso fits—and ruching along the front panel elegantly supports your curves. There’s also removable straps, so you can actually swim in this bandeau suit without worrying about it slipping.

Shapellx

In sizes S to 3X (and removable pads for cup sizes from A to GG+), Shapellx’s Smart Sculpt Plunge Cutout Swimsuit is flattering for many body types. A deep-V cutout enhances the bust as a mid-compression inner mesh panel offers 360 degree tummy control support. As an added bonus, this suit can also be worn as a chic bodysuit.

Nike

Nike’s Essential Women’s High-Waisted Swim Bottoms offer moderate bottom coverage and a high waist to keep you comfortable and secure for all your water activities. One reviewer said these bottoms are perfect “if you need lower tummy control that looks flattering and is still functional,” plus a zippered back waistband pocket provides an hidden spot to stash your keys or ID.

Over the years, Forbes Vetted has researched, tested and published dozens of fashion and swimwear stories. Not only are is the team well-versed in the market, they’re constantly scouring the industry and talking with experts to ensure that they’re in the loop. Many Forbes Vetted staffers have also tested swimwear firsthand, both at home and in professional settings, and several of their personal recommendations are on this list. We also spoke to two experts, including Jennifer Pennington, an active-wear buyer at Nordstrom, and textile expert Darci Moody.The Forbes Vetted team also continuously updates this story with new information and findings—it was last updated in July 2023.

To choose the tummy-control swimsuits for this list, the Forbes Vetted team dug into their ample swimwear product experience and researched top picks from reputable brands. They also included our personal recommendations; specifically, the Stylest and Kona Sol brands are ones editors have tried (and reach for again and again). As a fashion writer, I also have firsthand knowledge of all the tummy-control swimsuits on this list and have tested a variety of the suits, as noted above.

To narrow my selections, I compared features to ensure there’s a tummy-control swimsuit for everyone here, including those who want support in the midsection or just had a baby and are postpartum or who simply want a sleek look in a swimsuit. By focusing on factors such as sizes, materials, price and return policy, I was able to include an option for every type of wearer.

Finally, every pick on this list had to be backed by great customer reviews with an average star rating of 4.5 or higher (out of 5) from hundreds, if not thousands, of reviews.

There are a few features to prioritize for when shopping for the best tummy-control swimsuits. Here’s what the experts I spoke to recommend you pay attention to:

“Look for Lycra, spandex, or a bit of elastane,” says Jennifer Pennington, an active-wear buyer at Nordstrom. These fabrics are often interchangeable and often achieve the same end result, says Darci Moody, a clothing designer, fabric shop founder and textile expert. “In order to move around, fabric needs to stretch widthwise. It also needs to stretch lengthwise, but to a lesser extent. Look for a suit with something called 4-way stretch,” adds Moody.

In addition to a stretchy fabric, a solid lining will ensure control and support. “Some brands offer mesh paneling inside the lining of the suit, which helps with smoothing,” says Pennington. Miraclesuit, our pick for best one-piece option, has a unique fabric, called Miratex, that keeps the shape while flattering the figure, she says.

Keep in mind where and why you’re wearing a bathing suit. Are you reading a book by the pool all day or are you planning to surf every wave that comes your way? “Great performance swimwear has several things in common: it’s made of high-quality materials that endure various conditions like salt water and chlorine, and are impact resistant,” says Elizabeth Sneed, known as @CurvySurferGirl on Instagram, and is a Jolyn Surf Ambassador. “For surfing, I prefer a softer fabric with a combination of stretch and firmness. The stretch makes the suit comfortable, while the firmness helps the suit maintain its shape and support.”

If you’re not into basic black, experiment to find what makes you feel confident at the pool or on the beach, says Pennington. “If you’re willing to try something new, consider mesh cut-outs placed to flatter the tummy area or look for strategic paneling that will compliment your body type and tummy area as well.”

Get specific about what your needs and wants when it comes to swimwear. Is this suit for fashion or is it for function? “For larger chests, underwire suits provide excellent lift and support but may be a hindrance while participating in a high-impact activity like surfing or free diving,” says Sneed. “High-waist bikini bottoms offer great coverage and support for the lower abs, while swim shorts can help with inner thigh chafing.” You also don’t want a suit that will pull or pill if you sit down on cement alongside a pool.