Flattering swimsuits for women 50+

Flattering Swimsuits for Women 50+

Temperatures are rising here in Hotlanta as we spring into May! This month is all about celebrations and summer preparations, with students counting down to the end of the school year and the start of summer vacations. We already have almost every weekend booked solid this month, from the college graduation of my niece last weekend to Mother’s Day celebrations with my mom, Mollie, and Becca. My grandbabies will also be wrapping up another wonderful school year while we plan for our annual family Memorial Day weekend at the beach.

With the warm weather and longer days of glorious sunshine on the horizon, so many families are starting to plan and prepare for all the fun water activities that come with the summer season. From pool days to beachy fun, we’re looking forward to four solid months of building sandcastles, slip n’ slidin’, wave jumping, jet skiing, sunset walks on the beach, and my favorite – lounging with my favorite sunhat, a tall glass of sweet tea, and a juicy beach read.

As we kick off yet another summer season with plenty of water activities to look forward to, I know many of us women over the age of 50 are feeling a sense of apprehension about the upcoming bathing suit season. As we age, the idea of wearing a bathing suit in public can bring about a new level of body consciousness, which can be especially challenging for some of us.

I sometimes feel a little self-conscious about the scars on my back after reconstruction surgery from breast cancer. It took me a while to turn that self-conscious feeling into feelings of gratefulness for being alive and able to spend another day enjoying my family and blessings. I know years from now when my family looks back at those photos, they’re not going to focus on my scars but rather on the joy of being in the moment. Everyone is truly thankful I’m alive and here, scars and all.

While it took some time for me to become more comfortable wearing a bathing suit with my scars on display, I also made sure to select bathing suits that make me look and feel my best. Ultimately, the best swimsuit style will depend both on your personal preferences and body type.

Here are just a couple of flattering swimsuit styles to consider when shopping for swimwear this season:

One piece swimsuits:

It’s no surprise that one-piece suits are a go-to for women of all ages. They provide good coverage and support and are available in so many styles and colors. I love this elegant and modern style from Island Goddess which is a Nordstrom bestseller! For good reason, this style looks amazing on every body type and is available in gorgeous colors.

Tankinis:

It’s been a while since I’ve worn an itsy bitsy, teeny weeny, bikini but I like the flexibility of a two-piece when I’m at the beach. Tankinis are great because the longer top covers the midriff section, which can be a source of insecurity for a lot of women, particularly those who want more coverage around their stomach area. This tankini top from Lands’ End is shoulder sexy and chlorine resistant, which is great for long days at the pool while I love the pattern and ring front design of this Ralph Lauren tankini.

Waist Ruching:

When your tummy is your sore spot, look for one-piece bathing suits with flattering front ruching. I like this one from Nordstrom that is shapely and has a V-neck design. When you want extra tummy control, the Smisivo halter bathing suit is slimming!

Swim Dresses:

Modest swimwear doesn’t always mean you’re covered from head to toe! Swim dresses are fun and feminine and offer a little extra leg coverage with flowy, flattering styles. Check out the 36 floral and classic options from Cocopear. This front ruffle design comes with a padded bra for that essential support and shaping.

Best Sunscreen Protection:

Sun protection is important at every age, but more so for women over the age of 50. It’s no surprise that swimsuits with UPF50+ feature long sleeves, and I love these options from REI and Mott50. The whimsical design of this Le’Orangerie two-piece reminds me of the Amalfi Coast! .

Color Block Design is a pattern that works for every body!

Till Next Time,

Lori Allen

Color Block Design:

Not every pattern is flattering for every figure, but I have never seen anyone look bad in a color-block design. This one from Tommy Bahama has a wrap style to accentuate your waist while adding a decorative and fun element. The Sidestroke style from Summersalt was named the Unicorn of Bathing Suits by The Today Show for good reason! This style flatters every body shape.