While in theory you can swim all year round, there’s nothing like the heat of summer to turn your attention to your swimwear collection.
When the temperature rises, having a quick dip in a pool, lido or the ocean takes on new levels of temptation - but if you’re self-conscious about your mid-section, you might find yourself turning down opportunities to have a dunk.
This is a real shame, because everyone deserves to enjoy the fun, frolics and refreshment that come from splashing around in the water. We get it though; wearing next to nothing in public can be a daunting prospect, even with the #bodypositive movement in full stride.
That’s why swimsuits with tummy control panels are such a godsend. If you’re sensitive about your tummy area, these designs can help smooth and streamline your figure while still celebrating your curves. Some sport control panels, while others use tricks like pleating and ruching to ‘disguise’ the area.
Ultimately it’s all down to confidence, and if these swimsuits help to build yours, then we’re all for it.
We’ve pulled together an edit of the best swimwear with built-in tummy control to help you strut your stuff this summer.
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Pour Moi Strapless Belted High Leg Tummy Control Swimsuit - Black/White
This classic bandeau offers a retro Hollywood feel for poolside glamour. Under the adjustable waist belt are control panels that offer gentle smoothing. The straps are also adjustable or you can do away with them altogether and let your shoulders enjoy the sun and avoid tan lines. Available in sizes 10 - 20.
Buy now £52.00, Pour Moi
M&S Tummy Control Ribbed Padded V-Neck Swimsuit
Instantly evoking thoughts of swish Mediterranean resorts, this white all-in-one is a must-pack for your next trip away. The plunge neck is flattering while still offering plenty of support and there’s Magic 360 technology to make sure you look good from every angle. Wear with oversized sunnies and gold jewels.
Available in size 12 - 24.
Buy now £35.00, M&S
Figleaves Frida Underwired Bandeau Swimsuit
Proving that tummy control swimwear needn’t be boring, lingerie specialist Figleaves comes through with a botanical print in a cool colour palette. The shoulder straps detach, giving you the option to wear it as a strapless piece. Available in cups B - DD.
Buy now £35.00, Simply Be
We Are We Wear Plus high waist control bikini bottom with ruching in coral
This high waisted bikini comes with ruching along the sides which you can adjust to get the desired effect. While it’s frustrating that the top and bottom are sold separately, it does mean you can buy what you need if you already own an other half that you love or mix and match sizes.
Buy now £13.50, ASOS
Pour Moi Radiance V Neck High Leg Tummy Control Swimsuit
Nautical and nice, stripes are a failsafe choice for swimsuits. This tummy control monochrome look is lifted with streaks of metallic gold. With high legs and a plunge neck, it’s best reserved for sunbathing and lounging rather than diving into the sea.
Buy now £48.00, Pour Moi
We Are We Wear V front control swimsuit with ruching in chartreuse
You’ll draw attention for all the right reasons in this highlighter yellow swimsuit. It pulls you in in all the right places with extra ruching over the lower stomach to mask your midriff. Available in sizes 4 - 14.
Buy now £32.00, ASOS
MAGISCULPT Hawaii Underwired Bandeau Swimsuit
If you’ve got a big holiday in the calendar, feel your best for all the photos with MagicSculpt’s bandeau swimming costume. The powermesh lining whittles you down to an hourglass figure, while the bold floral print will draw admiring looks. There are also removable and adjustable straps to customise the look to best suit you.
Buy now £44.00, Simply Be
MAGISCULPT Twist Front Blouson Swimsuit
Pattern is an excellent way to hide bits you don’t want on show, and this floral design is ideal for almost all the seasons. The front twists like a wrap dress and pleats over the waist. The non-wired piece comes with foam cups to offer light support across the chest. Available in size 20 -32.
Buy now £26.40, Simply Be
Kya Reversible Camilia Bikini Bottoms
This timeless colourblock swimwear staple will be an elegant style you’ll wear for years to come. It’s ultra flattering - from the cross bikini top that accentuates the cleavage, to the high rise, high leg bikini bottoms that come complete with a wide supportive waistband. Best of all, it’s fully reversible so you’ll get two designs for the price of one.
Buy now £88.00, Free People
Snag Swimsuit Show me the money - Hot Pink
Made with power mesh and stretchy fabric that’s formed from at least 50 per cent recycled textiles, Snag’s collection is perfect for those with fuller figures. While offered in one block colour, this design has ruching along the sides to create texture over the torso.
Buy now £39.99, Snag
