9 'game-changer' tummy control swimsuits guaranteed to boost your confidence this summer
Prices start from just £25
Whatever your size, the best tummy control swimsuits work like shapewear to smooth your silhouette and can make all the difference to how you feel while lounging by the pool. Let's face it, a little confidence boost goes a long way when it comes to swimwear.
Whether you’re planning a hot holiday or simply looking for a new swimsuit to do lengths at your local leisure centre, tummy control swimsuits often have built-in panels at the front and sides to help skim and contour your middle. Their sole purpose is to offer support so you can feel more secure while taking a dip or lazing in the summer sun.
Best tummy control swimsuits
The best tummy control swimsuits come in all cuts and sizes, whether you're looking for a silhouette-streamlining one-piece or a stylish two-piece that ticks the latest trends. To put the best tummy control swimsuits the high street has to offer through their paces, we asked Fashion Director Paula Moore and her friends to test out options whilst on holiday. So you can be safe in the knowledge that these tummy control swimsuits will all work wonders for you too.
Sizes: 10-18, cup size B-D
"This hot pink swimsuit is an instant mood-lifter," according to Sharmaine France. "The colour really pops and I love the contemporary criss-cross back detail, which adds interest without compromising comfort. The soft cups offer gentle support, while the front shapewear insert smooths and flatters, giving me a real confidence boost on the beach." Another customer wrote this glowing review: "The first costume I have tried on for a long time that has made me happy."
Sizes: 6-18
We've had lots of recommendations for Tess Daly's brand Naia Beach, and it's safe to say this little black swimsuit lived up to its high expectations. Sally Mirza says: "The ruching across the tummy is incredibly forgiving, smoothing everything out and giving me a lovely hourglass shape without feeling restrictive."
Sizes: bra size 30-40, cup size D-J
This was Paula's top pick, calling it "poolside perfection." She said: "I felt really supported thanks to the cup sizing and adjustable straps, which was a game-changer for my uneven bust shape. The wired, non-padded design creates a natural lift, while the powermesh lining smooths everything comfortably. The honeycomb-textured fabric feels luxurious, and the mood-boosting red makes it an instant standout."
Sizes: 6-22
Thought you couldn't find good tummy control swimsuits for under £30? Think again! Sally says: "I was pleasantly surprised by how supportive it is, even with the tie undone. The removable pads let you adjust the coverage, while the tummy control panel smooths everything out for a confidence boost."
Sizes: 6-24 Regular, 10-20 Tall
Sherrie Theis-Dunn says: "It's easy to see why this swimsuit has nothing but 5-star reviews! Extremely flattering and with a great fit, this block-colour swimsuit accentuates the waistline for an hourglass silhouette. Featuring a plunging neckline, high-cut leg, and shaping mesh for tummy control, it provides all-day comfort."
Sizes: 6-22
Abigail Latif tested this one, and her feedback was overwhelmingly positive: "The colour is instantly eye-catching, while the halter neck and U-shaped ring add a modern, flattering twist. The underwired cups give great support and shape, especially with the option of removable padding to tailor the fit. I also love the tummy control panel - it smooths everything out without feeling restrictive. At under £30, it feels like an absolute bargain for such a confident, head-turning piece."
Sizes: 6-22
Sally explains: "This gorgeous one-piece swimsuit from Next is super flattering, with its deep plunge neckline and high-cut leg. A tummy-shaping panel provides support, and 15% Lycra for extra stretch ensures a comfortable fit. Wide straps, padded, sewn-in cups, and boned plunge detail offer excellent support for larger busts."
Sizes: top 32-38 C-G, bottoms 10-18
Abigail called this bikini a "gem". She says: "The high-waisted style gives you really good coverage, so you'll feel super comfortable and confident. Plus, the bottoms have got a clever tummy control panel built-in, which is just brilliant for a smooth and supportive fit without feeling too tight."
Sizes: XS to XXL
We haven't tested this one, but it comes highly recommended by customers. I don't know about you, but an Amazon option is always helpful, as I often leave packing to the last minute. This is available in 27(!) different colours and prints, and has a great rating on Amazon. One reviewer wrote: "After two kids I was feeling a little self-conscious about my tummy... I loved wearing it and felt confident.... I have since bought a second one in a different colour."
What we looked for
Tummy control technology has come on leaps and bounds in the last few years, so it wasn't hard to find styles that promised good results.
We took into consideration requirements like larger busts and tried to account for a range of different tastes, be it swimsuit vs bikini, as well as prints, colours, and shapes like halter neck, bandeau or plunge.
Above all, we factored in how the swimwear felt, which was why it was so important to put them to the test. Yes, you want to feel confident and supported, but the last thing you need in the heat is to feel restricted or uncomfortable.
FAQs
What bathing suits are most slimming?
It's important to think about the best swimwear for your shape and personal style when browsing for ‘the one’. You’ll feel your best while you’re soaking up the sun in swimwear that is comfortable and flattering.
Fashion Editor Julie Player explains what she looks for when it comes to finding her poolside confidence boost: "Since going through the menopause, my figure has changed, and I’m definitely an apple shape, so I’m particularly keen to find designs that cover my tummy, ideally with a firm control lining for added support, which makes me feel more confident on the beach.
"My ideal swimsuit will have design features that disguise the tummy area while drawing attention to the bits of my figure that I like, my bust and legs! Pattern has an important part to play too; an all-over bold print will distract the eye away from areas you prefer to cover.”
How do tummy control swimsuits work?
Still unsure if tummy control swimwear really works? Fashion Editor Antonia Kraskowski explains how they can help, and the options available:
“When it comes to shopping for the perfect swimwear to flatter your figure and make you feel confident by the pool, the key is to look for clever details such as tummy control panels that will offer support to hold you in without restricting your movement. Much like the best shapewear, these discreet mesh panels will shape and support your body through gentle compression to create a sleek silhouette.
"If you want to achieve a slimmer look without resorting to control panels, there are plenty of other options to flatter your figure. Look for swimwear styles with gentle ruching at the sides and across the tummy area that will create a flattering effect."
Antonia Kraskowski is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years' experience in the industry. Having started her career at Conde Nast working for titles including Easy Living, Glamour and Vogue New Markets, Antonia went on to work in the fast-paced world of newspapers and weekly magazines, becoming Fashion Editor at Express Newspapers and Magazines in 2014, a role she held for five years before going freelance. Her career has seen Antonia travel the world, shooting in 18 countries and styling campaigns for brands ranging from Ben Sherman and DKNY to Wallis.
Julie has over 30 years' experience in the fashion industry and is a regular contributor to Woman & Home, Woman’s Weekly and Chat magazines, creating engaging fashion and lifestyle content for women of all ages. She also works in the wardrobe department at ITV, dressing the presenters for Good Morning Britain. Aged 57, Julie loves seeking out the most figure-flattering fashion for every occasion. She’s a qualified sustainable fashion expert with a wealth of knowledge of planet-friendly fashion brands and ways to shop more ethically.
