Tummy control swimsuits that will make you feel confident and stylish

These flattering shapewear swimsuits will help you feel your best.

Tummy Control Swimwear - with picks from John Lewis, TU and Simply Be

by Ellen Kinsey |
Updated on

Tummy control swimsuits are a great idea if you are looking for a swimming costume with a flattering silhouette, and we have picked our favourites for you to browse. Whether you are heading on a beach holiday, going on a city break or making the most of the sunny weather this summer – a good-fitting swimsuit that makes you feel your best is an absolute must. Read on for our style guide.

When it is boiling, all you will want to do is jump into the water to cool down, and how you appear in your swimwear will be the last thing on your mind. You can try going out of your comfort zone and wearing the swimwear that makes you feel happy, or go for a timeless classic that is guaranteed to make you feel confident and good. We are firm believers at Yours that everybody is beach body ready, so go for the petite or plus-size swimsuit if that's what is calling your name. And, we answer your FAQs below, too...

Best tummy control swimsuit at a glance

Best for tummy control: John Lewis Popcorn Apex Wrap Swimsuit - view at John Lewis
Best with plus sizes: MAGISCULPT Lose Up To An Inch Black Swimsuit - view at Simply Be
Best belted swimsuit: Pour Moi Removable Straps Belted Control Swimsuit - view at Pour Moi
Best for full coverage: Colour Piping Swimsuit - view at Bon Marche

But, what does tummy control mean? Tummy control for swimwear is just like shapewear but for swimming. Many styles on our list are designed with a built-in front panel that offers extra support in the stomach area, while others have a bold pattern that creates the illusion of a slimmer tummy. Similar to mastectomy swimsuits, there are tweaks made to tummy-flattering swimsuits that accommodate your body - in the case of a mastectomy: hidden pockets for prosthesis or higher necklines to conceal scars.

So, from fun prints to timeless designs – we have rounded up the best tummy control swimsuits that are flattering and stylish. Here are our favourites from M&S, John Lewis and more. Whether at the beach, pool or in a cold water therapy tub, you'll be feeling confident enough to go for a dip.

Best tummy control swimsuits for a confident summer

Best for tummy control

This flattering John Lewis Popcorn Apex Wrap Swimsuit is available in khaki and navy and is a great fit and comfortable. It's the perfect versatile suit for your summer holiday. It features a high apex cut, plunging neckline and a wrap design that flattens your tummy and provides good control and support. It's simple, stylish - and has our vote. What do customers say, though?

Customers rate this pick highly - with an average 4.7/5 star rating at John Lewis. One customer says it's the "most flattering swimsuit ever" - with a lovely fabric, cleavage-enhancing - always a winner. According to this review, it's survived an abundance of pool activities. They loved it so much, they bought both colours. They suggest adding more colours, though, so they can buy more! It's said to be true to size, with great quality and value. Adjustable straps seal the deal.

Pros

  • Flattering wrap design flattens the tummy
  • Crossed straps to give support in the back
  • Provides medium control for your tummy

Cons

  • Some customers wish they did more colours - so, they could buy more!
Sizes30DD-40K

Best for plus sizes

If you’re looking for tummy control for plus sizes, the MAGISCULPT Lose Up To An Inch Tummy Control Swimsuit from Simply Be is a great choice. They call it your “swimwear saviour” – which is high praise. This swimwear comes with comfort and support because it features wide straps and inner moulded padded cups. Offering body shaping and tummy control, it has a powerful power mesh lining and comes in sizes 10 to 32, so everyone can feel confident this summer.

Customers like this product – with 69% of reviewers recommending it for a holiday dip. One customer loves that it’s tall woman-friendly, a decent length and holds them well. Other reviews love how comfortable, flattering and supportive this MAGICSCULPT swimsuit is. However, one customer suggests that Simply Be should include cup-sized swimwear as breast sizes differ.

Pros

  • Firm tummy control technology
  • With wide straps and padded cups
  • Available in sizes 10 to 32

Cons

  • Some found the bust a little small - and some customers sized down
Sizes10 to 32

Best belted swimsuit

Let your wild side out with this zebra print number from Pour Moi. This belted swimming costume has a classic shape, designed to sculpt your curves with its front control panel. If you don't want those pesky tan lines getting in the way of your flawless holiday tan, you'll be pleased to hear the straps are fully removable.

Tried and tested by Yours writer, Rosie Floyd:
**"**I love, love, love the print of this swimming cossie. I, personally, can't get enough animal prints in my wardrobe, especially when I'm on holiday. I like how the belt detail breaks up the print of the swimsuit, and the fact it cinches me in at the waist is an added bonus."

Pros

  • Chic, classic and stylish animal print!
  • Features removable and adjustable straps
  • Belted - for the ultimate silhouette!

Cons

  • Some customers found the bust was too big for them
Sizes10 to 20

Best for full coverage

Colour Piping SwimsuitBon Marche

With fixed straps and guaranteed tummy control, this Colour Piping Swimsuit is another great choice. The patterned piping is very clever and leads your eyes away from the bodice – making this an extra-special flattering pick. Complete with the polyamide mesh material, it comes equipped with extra support to give you a little confidence when you go for a swim. With full coverage, it’ll be great if you’re looking for something a little less revealing. Pair with your favourite sandals and hit the pool.

Coming highly rated from a handful of reviews, the Piping Swimsuit from Bon Marche is said to fit a little big – but overall, is said to be flattering, fit well and comfy. Reviews love the design and appreciate that it’s great value for the price. Another adds that it gives good support and fits nicely around the top of the leg – appreciating that it's not as highly cut as other picks.

Pros

  • Full coverage and tummy control
  • With soft cups for breast support
  • Piping pattern is very flattering

Cons

  • One customer says it fits a little big
Sizes10 to 28

Best for asymmetrical design

Frill Shoulder Control Swimsuit - Black
Price: £31.50 (was £RRP £45)

www.pourmoi.co.uk

Make a statement with this Pour Moi Frill Shoulder Control Swimsuit - Black. This swimsuit looks great on a luxurious getaway with stunning frill detailing and an asymmetrical neckline. Pour Moi has even added an additional shoulder strap for extra support. How lucky are we? What about reviews?

Customers love this pick! One customer said it was gorgeous, flattering and stylish. However, one customer says that the sizing was very wrong - and felt the fit was not true to size (too small).

Pros

  • With added tummy control for confidence
  • Asymmetrical swimsuit is very striking
  • We love the chic frilled detailed shoulder!

Cons

  • One customer says that it was not true to size
Sizes8 to 18

Best underwired swimsuit

Or, consider this Black Textured Ring Underwired Swimsuit for the ultimate bust support. Not only that, but it has smoothing tummy control – finding you the right fit. Black, with gorgeous gold detailing, this swimsuit will make you feel good in and out of the water. It’s shape-enhancing with thick straps, adjustable if needed. Plus, it’s machine washable. We love the styling of this pick, with its small cut-outs and shape-enhancing fit. Gorgeous.

This New Look cossie averages 4.3/5 stars on-site, with high praise for the quality and comfort. Fit and length are equally said to be “true to sizing”. But, what do the customers say? One customer (aged between 45 to 54) says it’s the best they’ve ever had! They praise the fantastic quality and flattering fit –they claim many strangers asked them where they bought it. Another customer said the black didn’t fit them as well – but the white colourway was comfy and fit well.

However, it's said to be better suited for ladies with bigger busts – which may not apply to everyone.

Pros

  • With smoothing tummy control
  • Attractive gold-tone detailing
  • Shape-enhancing and underwired

Cons

  • Said to be better suited for ladies with bigger busts
Sizes32B to 38DD

Best briefs with tummy control

YOURS Black Super High Waisted Tummy Control Bikini BriefsYOURS Clothing

Looking for just briefs? The YOURS Black Super High Waisted Tummy Control Bikini Briefs are perfect for a dip. Pair with your favourite bikini tops for a stylish, flattering look. Made from chlorine-resistant, quick-drying stretch fabric, this plus-size bikini brief provides sun protection and convenience for your trip away. Versatile and easy to style – what’s not to love? Feeling a little unconfident? Let the power mesh support take care of the firm tummy control, whether pool or beach.

From a handful of reviews, Yours Clothing customers love this pick. Having earned a respectable 4.5/5 star rating, these briefs are said to fit well and be of great value and quality. However, many customers claim that it runs a little large – so, maybe size it down if you can! Reviews find it great for swimming and many look forward to their trip with these briefs…

Pros

  • Power mesh for smooth tummy control
  • Super high-waisted with piping detail
  • Chlorine-resistant and quick-drying fabric

Cons

  • Customers claim that it runs a little large
Sizes14 to 38/40

Best for all-over control

Women's High Leg Grecian Slender Swimsuit - ShineLands End
Price: £42.00 (RRP £120)

www.landsend.co.uk

Let your confidence shine through, says Lands’ End, with this Women's High Leg Grecian Slender Swimsuit in the shimmery Shine print. For all-over control, consider this pick, which comes complete with a higher-cut leg, high back and tummy-holding power. And, you’re not compromising on style, either. With a soft-to-the-touch shimmer and UPF 50 protection, this fantastic nylon-based swimsuit resists chlorine and sunscreen; it will last you a long time – if you handwash it! Accentuating your curves and making you feel more confident – what’s not to love? Just to add: the brand recommends sizing up, due to the snug fit, so it’s easier to slip and off. You'll be the talk of the pool.

Pros

  • Perfect for all-over control
  • Soft touch and shimmery!
  • High back and higher cut leg

Cons

  • Hand wash only
Sizes10 to 18

Best for a contemporary style

One-Shoulder Tummy Control One Piece SwimsuitCupshe

Or, if you’re looking for a bold and chic look, we recommend the One-Shoulder Tummy Control One Piece Swimsuit from Cupshe – with three colourways to suit your style. Plus, it’s functional, too – with tummy control, a flattering asymmetrical neckline and medium bust support. Though you’ll have to handwash this product, it’s honestly worth it. Whether colour-block (red or blue) or just plain black, you’ll be sure to impress – with the flattering power mesh ensuring you feel confident with your body. Plus, with removable soft cups to suit all busts, what’s not to love?

Pros

  • Three different colourways to suit your style!
  • Asymmetrical neckline is unique and stylish
  • With tummy control and medium bust support

Cons

  • Handwash only
Sizes6/8 to 18

Best floral print

Flaunt your accentuated silhouette with the MAGISCULPT Lose Up To An Inch Floral Swimsuit – a floral alternative to the pick we listed above. With foam cups to provide bust support and the fully lined power mesh to help control and smooth your figure, this pick comes equipped to help you feel confident when poolside. Giving you a little nip and tuck, this swimsuit is bound to grant you that enviably curvy figure. Simply Be recommends buying a few sizes to try – this is to find the right fit.

Pros

  • With intelligent Firm Control technology
  • Foam cups provide optimum bust support
  • Machine washable smoothing power-mesh

Cons

  • Simply Be recommends buying a few sizes to try
Sizes14 to 32

Best swimsuit from recycled yarns

Whether for your summer holiday or taking a trip to the local pool, this Red Stripe Medium Tummy Control Swimsuit is great value. Made from recycled yarns, this plunge-front number comes with medium control for your yummy for confidence and accentuated curves. Plus, with adjustable straps and removable padding, you can customise this budget-friendly piece for your body and find your confidence, pool-side. You’ll look and feel amazing, we’re sure.

100% of customers recommend this product. It’s earned a 4.4/5 star review, with high praise for comfort and value, as well as top marks for quality. Customers love the fit and look – and say the material is thick enough to hold your tummy in. One customer recommends this product, citing both the quality and fit are excellent. Not only that but the material is said to be comfy and it’s affordable. All pluses from us. Any pain points? One customer found it didn’t suit their larger bust.

Pros

  • Contains recycled yarns
  • Adjustable straps for the right fit
  • Medium tummy control

Cons

  • Some small stock issues
Sizes6 to 26

FAQs

What swimwear should I wear if I am self-conscious about my stomach?

Here at Yours, we want to encourage you to be more body-positive and to love the skin you're in. However, we know everyone has hang-ups about their bodies. It can make you feel a bit insecure, especially when it comes to wearing swimwear. If you struggle with body confidence, you're not alone.
If your stomach is part of your body that you're a little self-conscious of, there are certain types of swimwear you can wear that are more flattering on your tummy area. Look for swimsuits and tankini tops with tummy control panels and ruching. Control panels are designed to give the stomach a smoother appearance. On the other hand, Cleverly placed ruching helps to provide the illusion of a smaller belly.
Prefer to wear a bikini? Get some high-waisted briefs on. They'll come up higher on your stomach than mid and low-rise bottoms, giving you some extra coverage on the area you're feeling worried about.
We wouldn't recommend swim socks - that is if you want to remain stylish.

Where can I buy swimwear?

Still not found the perfect swimsuit for you? Whether poolside or open water swimming, Here are all the best places to pick up swimwear and plus-size swimming costumes.
Simply Be - From swim dresses that provide extra coverage or bikinis that provide additional support, Simply Be's swimwear collection has it all. It is known as a plus-size retailer but also offers smaller sizes as its wide range covers sizes 6-32.
Yours Clothing - Yours Clothing knows a thing or two about styling curves. Their swimwear range starts from a size 14 and goes up to a size 40. It's designed with plus-size bodies in mind.
Bonmarché - Bonmarche's swimwear collection features a wide range of colours and prints. They want you to feel most confident in their swimwear, so that's why their swimwear has features like hidden tummy shaping, detachable straps and moulded cups for your comfort. Size range 10-28.
Marks & Spencer - With the M&S swimwear range being available in sizes 6-24, M&S doesn't have as wide a size range as the brands we've mentioned above; however, they still have some lovely pieces for plus-size women. Think high-waisted bikinis in gorgeous prints and swimsuits that will look just as nice for sitting by the beach as they do swimming in a pool.
Snag Tights - Snag Tights started out by creating tights in a wide range of sizes, and they've recently branched out into clothing, including swimwear. We love their inclusive styles, and they display their swimwear on a variety of models so you can truly visualise how it will fit on a curvy body. Available in sizes 4-38.

Ellen Kinsey was a Senior Health and Wellness Product Writer and has been a part of Bauer Media since 2020. She has left Bauer Media to study Ayurveda in India to expand her knowledge and skills in the health and wellness field, where she plans to continue making journalistic contributions.

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