As a not-thin, not-straight person, the bathing suit has become a particularly loaded item of clothing. Through the years, I’ve felt pressure to hide my body, pressure to “reclaim” my body and most recently, pressure to to publicly show my lack of shame and unapologetic body confidence via donning a two-piece anytime I’m near water.
Growing up sentenced to unflattering swim dresses and catalog tankinis intended for someone five times my age, my initial move to the bikini felt revolutionary. The more I loved my body, the more I loved wearing two pieces — for their peeing/changing/layering convenience and because they made me feel good about myself. I’ve been a strict two-piece wearer for nearly a decade now, and never thought I’d go back to covering up.
Yet, on a recent trip to a Philadelphia public pool with a friend and her kid, it occurred to me that it could be nice to have a one-piece in the mix. Not to hide my body, just to ensure I can splash around without worrying about a nip slip or exposing my buns. Besides, a one-piece is one item to launder and pack instead of two. It requires no matching or coordinating. And frankly, as I bid farewell to my 20s, a one-piece just feels more comfortable for me when I’m at the beach with my family or asking the teenage lifeguard for the pool hours.
I wanted a basic, affordable one-piece that covered my whole tush and cost less than $100. And reader, I did not realize how hard it would be to find one.
As I started to look for a modern one-piece, it seemed every option had huge cut-outs, a myriad of criss-cross straps and buckles and was cut so high up the leg it was virtually a thong. Everything looked like a bad interpretation of an ’80s party or neon lingerie one may wear at an electronic music festival in the desert. For the record: I was explicitly looking for something nondescript. My personality is cheeky enough, I’d love my bottom to be fully covered.
What’s worse? Most options seemed to cost north of $150, with no clear explanation of, say, the ethical sourcing or advanced construction that would merit said pricetag.
After looking for probably too long, I found and have worn an option I’m happy with and rounded up some other promising ones below. They are basic, easy, one-piece swimsuits that give ample coverage, have no extra clasps or tassels and cost under $100. Many come in fun colors and patterns, many are neutrals and all offer some modesty without looking dated.
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This high-neck one-piece is made by Knix, a brand best known for its innovative period underwear. Although this particular suit doesn’t offer leakproof protection (plenty of Knix swimwear does, however) it does extra support in the form of an internal shelf bra, removable cups and adequate butt coverage. It’s also made with UPF50+ fabric to help offer protection from the sun. You can find it in this fun limited edition tangerine color and in sizes XS-4XL.
Promising Knix review: “I love the high neck front. The low back is beautiful as well. I appreciate that there’s enough butt coverage where it’s not too cheeky. I am extremely happy with my purchase!” — Rach
Promising review: “This swimsuit is incredible! I have a very large chest that makes finding a bathing suit very difficult and expensive. I genuinely did not think I could have a bathing suit without underwire. This suit keeps me supported and looking fabulous! If you want a classic black suit, this is the one for you.” — Flo Flo
Zip her up or let her hang, this adorable short-sleeve suit can be as modest as you want it. It has a full-coverage bottom and sewn-in soft cups to keep you supported at the lake, pool, or wherever you enjoy water time. This comes in a ton of colors in sizes XS-XXL.
Promising review: “I have received a lot of compliments on this bathing suit. The quality and fit are excellent. Color is as expected. I love the extra cover on the shoulders. The zipper is an active zipper and is easy to use, adjustable and stays in place. Will buy again.” — Elizabeth L.
Ok, so this is probably the most spicy option as it has a little V-neck action and some detailing on the front of the waist, but it still has two basic, adjustable straps that do not crisscross or do anything else funky. It has removable cups, a full coverage bottom and a UPF 50+ rating to protect you from the sun. This comes in four colors in S-L with some options up to a 24.
Promising review: “This has become my go to swimsuit. I have now owned it for 2yrs and it’s held up perfectly. It slims just the right spots with good coverage.” — Sarah
Quince is known for their high-quality items at great prices and this cami-style swimsuit is no exception. It covers your bum, the brand says it won’t pill or snag and has adjustable straps. It offers UPF 50, had removable cups and is chlorine, oil and sunscreen-resistant, keeping you looking fresh for many summers to come. This comes in five colors in XS-XL.
Promising review: “I wanted a suit that would make me feel comfortable chasing my toddlers around while still feeling cute and this is it! It’s the perfect red. I have a long torso so one piece don’t often work for me but this one was great.” — Tess O.
If you want something that will look like a body suit or cute tank top when you wear it with jeans — you found it. This cute suit has adjustable straps that you can make criss-cross and sweet buttons that you can fasten at your leisure. It has some nice ruching around the tum and a nice ribbed fabric. With full bum coverage, you got your new favorite suit. This comes in a bunch of colors in S-XL.
Promising review: “As someone who hates swimsuits, I can’t say enough nice things about this one. It’s flattering, has good coverage and support, and looks great. I was debating between a medium and large, and could have probably fit into both, but, at least for me, was better off sizing down to a medium (158 pounds, 5’6”).” — Shae M
Whether you’re crushing laps in the pool or just want to feel really supported, this sporty option offers a high neckline, racer back and full coverage on the bum. It has wide straps for chest support and sewn-in cups for coverage and comfort. This comes in over 7 patterns in sizes S-XL.
Promising review: “I needed a swimsuit that was best for water aerobics and lap swimming AND this suit does it all. It also looks great on me.” — Kay Fletcher
How cute and summery is this vintage-inspired ruched one-piece? It screams vacation whether you’re under a cabana or in the backyard running through the sprinkler. It has some masterful ruching and light breast padding making it look way more expensive than it is with adjustable straps and a full-coverage bottom. This comes in many fun colors and patterns, and some netural options in sizes S-XL. Grab the coupon for 10% off.
Promising review: “I have been putting on weight for some time and was going away and needed a suit. Took a chance and I’m so happy I did. There were other suits I had to return but not this one! I like the full coverage bottom. So flattering. I am currently 5’2 about 180. I felt confident and comfortable. Held up well through a few swims and washes so far. I absolutely love it. Don’t hesitate. I also received compliments on the look.” — Greg Incerto
Finally, a suit that boasts lower-cut leg openings. This option from Land’s End features the brands “tugless tank” style that keeps you covered without needing to pull or readjust as you move. It’s designed to stand up to chlorine, sunscreen, UV rays and sweat plus it offers UPF 50 sun protection. This comes in five colors in women’s sizes 2-18 with a tummy control option and D, DD and DDD cup sizes. Note: This swimsuit is on sale. To get the savings, click the on-page box to apply the “TRAVEL” discount code.
Promising review: “Fits good. Comfortable to swim in. Liked it so mush that I bought two more in other colors!” — Momtad
Promising review: “If you’re anything like me, you gave birth to your second child 2 months before the pandemic quarantine began, and you’ve spent the last year working from home while also full time parenting so prioritizing your physical wellbeing went out the window and the last 15 pounds of pregnancy weight remained on your waistline, but now you want to escape to an airbnb with a pool for the weekend and realize you have nothing but bikinis. This suit is perfect for you! Ok but more importantly, I’m 31 yo, 5’7, 150-155 pounds, more apple shape with most of my weight in my midsection. Boobs around 34D, but fluctuate between my baby needs to eat and deflated balloons. I got a size 10 and I’d say it’s perfect. In clothes I’m an 8 pants (some fit some don’t rn) and medium top. Flattering, not frumpy, love it!” — Alexandra47
Offering subtle pin-up vibes while still being super wearable, this one-piece has ruching all down the front with adjustable wide straps and removable pads. It has a little tummy control for extra support. This comes in a bunch of colors in sizes 6-18.
Promising review: “Love this bathing suit! I wear size 12 clothes but I ordered a 14 in this so it wouldn’t be so tight (I’m 67 years old). Couldn’t ask for better quality and fit! It’s adorable! It has a full back, which I like. Had adjustable straps too!” — Paudie
Full coverage in a fun color, this suit from L.L. Bean is breathable and chlorine-resistant. It dries quick, keeps it shape over washes and wears and gives you a little color without being too much. This comes in over five patterns in sizes 4-18 with plus and long options.
Promising review: “I’m 6’0” and 73 — It’s an attractive pattern, approved by my fashionista daughter-in-law; it is comfortable and fit perfectly.” — Diti