The Best Swimwear to Hide Your Tummy
Tankini, swimsuit or bikini? It’s time to find the style for you.
Choosing the perfect swimsuit to hide your tummy can feel daunting, especially if you’d like a little extra support around your middle.
The good news is that today’s designer swimwear is created with clever cuts, premium fabrics and supportive features that help you feel fabulous by the pool or on the beach.
At Maison SL, we fit hundreds of women every summer, so here’s our expert advice on the best swimwear to hide your tummy, plus a few styling tricks to make holiday packing effortless.
Tips for Finding the Best Swimwear To Hide Your Tummy
While you never need to hide your body and every shape deserves to be celebrated, these thoughtful tips will help you choose swimwear that feels both flattering and supportive, without scrimping on the style.
1. Look for Draped or Rouched Styles
One of the easiest ways to create a smooth tummy silhouette is to look for ruching or draping across the front of your swimsuit. These gathered panels cleverly skim rather than cling, softening the outline of your midsection.
Many brands also now use asymmetric draping or layered fabrics, which not only flatter but also look fashion‑forward.
For example, the Gottex Lattice Surplice One Piece Swimsuit has built-in tummy control and an elegant draped design across the stomach and waist area.
2. Tummy Control Support
That brings us to the next feature to look for: tummy control.
Tummy control swimsuits feature discreet control panels integrated into their one-piece design. They can’t be seen from outside, but offer a gentle hold that supports without uncomfortable restriction.
Good tummy control swimwear should be comfortable enough to sit and swim in, while also feeling tighter than a standard swimsuit.
The Empriente Mood One Piece Control Swimsuit is crafted from Lycra Beauty Fibres, providing a flexible fit, a soft feel, and support in the right places. The design also features subtle ruching for an extra-flattering finish.
Some swimsuits also offer support for larger chests. See our full guide to big bust and tummy control swimsuits here.
3. Strategic Colour & Print
Sure, dark colours are often thought of as slimming. But you don’t need to stick to black.
Deep jewel tones, such as teal, plum, or chocolate, are equally elegant. You may even want to explore ‘Colour Seasons’ to discover what colours suit your natural complexion.
The Lise Charmel Antigel La Voguese Tank Swimsuit is a great deep, turquoise green option if you’re looking for a jewel toned swimsuit.
Similarly, prints can be incredibly flattering, particularly if they have a diagonal or abstract pattern that distracts the eye.
You may also want to focus on panelled designs, with darker side panels and a brighter centre, as these work beautifully to create a smooth silhouette.
4. Swimsuits With Built-In Skirts
Looking for an alternative to ruching? Swimsuits with built‑in skirts offer graceful coverage while remaining stylish.
They soften the tummy area, provide confidence when moving around the pool or beach, and create a chic, timeless silhouette. They’re also one of the more popular swimsuits for the apple body shape.
The Gottex Profile Tutti Frutti V-Neck Skirted One Piece Swimsuit is a great place to start if you’re new to this style.
5. High-Waisted Bottoms
Swimsuits are a popular route, but they’re not the only option by a long shot.
If you prefer a two‑piece but want to hide your tummy, opt for a high‑waisted bikini. The higher cut elongates the leg and provides coverage across the lower tummy, giving you the confidence of a one‑piece with the versatility of separates.
Plus, you can mix and match high-waisted briefs with different bikini tops. The black Maison Lejaby Ecume High Waisted Bikini Brief is a classic option you’ll use for years to come.
Other Tips For Tummy Confidence
Beyond choosing the right swimwear, a few simple styling touches and mindset shifts can make a big difference to how confident and comfortable you feel by the water.
Try Swimsuits on Before You Buy
Fit can vary widely between brands and styles, so always try on a few options to see what feels best. Either order a few different styles, or visit an in-person shop to get expert advice.
Don’t rush! When trying the swimwear, move around, sit down and check that the suit supports and flatters in every position.
Consider Adding a Cover-Up
Sometimes, a beach cover-up can completely change the style.
A light kaftan, sarong, or wrap dress adds effortless elegance and a little extra confidence when transitioning from the pool to lunch.
When it comes to cover-ups, choose breathable fabrics and colours that complement your swimwear for a polished look.
Last Thoughts
Shopping for swimwear should be enjoyable, not stressful.
With thoughtfully chosen styles such as ruched one‑pieces and high‑waisted bikinis, you can highlight what you love and feel beautifully put together.