Maternity Swimwear Guide

A Guide to Choosing the Right Maternity Swimwear

Research shows that swimming is one of the safest forms of exercise for pregnant women. It exercises major muscle groups without overstretching delicate joints or tendons, as well as giving the heart a good workout and circulating oxygen and nutrients.

So why isn't every expectant mother a water baby themselves? Because even with all the benefits, there is one major factor that can put people off getting in the water - maternity swimwear.

The fact that you have to do swimming in minimal clothing is enough to stop some expectant mums from enjoying the benefits as existing swimsuits aren't going to be stretchy enough - don't let that happen to you.

Use the Everyday Maternity guide to flattering swimwear and find suits that you'll want to wear even when you're not in the water!

There are styles to suit all body shapes and sizes that are fashionable whilst offering flexibility and comfort. Make sure you buy the right size too big or too small will accentuate your flaws, so follow our simple tips and start packing for the pool today.

Large on Top

If pregnancy has increased your bust size, you need a suit that will provide firm support whilst also flattering your bust line. Look out for adjustable and wider straps. Ideally you need one in a darker colour that provides structure whilst also being fashionable. The Anita Maternity Swimsuit is just that, with specially designed individual cup sizes and bust lining to ensure you receive the perfect fit. The lycra gives lasting shape retention and also provides firm support and comfort. Available in black the Anita Maternity Swimsuit is ideal for those who require firm support without compromising on style.

Small on Top

If it feels like you're all bump, halter neck suits such as the Carriwell Maternity Swimsuit are the perfect way to enhance the bust line and show off the upper half of your body as it will pull your cleavage together.

Ruffles, textures and large designs across the bust line add decorative detail and break up the area that focuses on the cleavage, creating the illusion of curves and accentuating the area. The Noppies Maternity bikini with bow tie detail and paisley print is also a good choice. Although you may shy away from bikinis it is a perfect way to show off your bump whilst also enhancing your bust and giving a balanced profile.

Large Hips

For pear shaped women the best swimwear choice is a top that has plenty of eye-grabbing detail combined with more subdued bottoms.

Halter necks swimsuits are a great option for those with larger hips as they widen the shoulders and draw attention away from the hips. Dress your bottom half in a darker style to slim the hips and thighs.

Boyish Figure

With your long legs, slim hips and lack of waist, opt for a low-leg swimsuit to make your body seem longer. You can get away with shorts or low-cut bottoms as you don't need to extend your long legs. Consider the Queen Mum Maternity Halter Neck Tankini

Other Maternity Swimwear Tips

Low-cut legs are perfect to de-emphasise hips, as the lower cut balances the width in your upper leg
Divert attention from big hips by exposing as much shoulder and bust as you dare
Broad shoulders - opt for halter necks to reduce the width
Hour-glass - avoid tankinis, these will completely mask your enviable waist
Hour-glass - a v-neck will cut your boobs in half and show off your boobs
Short Legs - choose a high-cut suit to create the illusion of length

Be bold, celebrate and feel good!

Take pride in your shape and remember these additional pointers:

Colour is key, pick something that will work with your skin tone and light up your face. Plain dark colours can look harsh against pale skin, but sea greens and blues will give an instant tan, and brighter colours with white backgrounds will show off darker skin tones.

Work to your advantage; with so much choice in the maternity swimsuits you can enhance your best bits - dare to bare and be proud of that bump!

Rinse your swimsuit in fresh water after use: this will prolong the life as it minimises its exposure to sea and chlorinated water.

If you really want to get into Aqua Aerobics then opt for a swimsuit with bra-shelf such as the Emma-Jane Maternity Swimsuit, tankinis are likely to rise up during all the exercise