21 Best Swim Skirts For Women

Buy from L.L. Bean, $69.95

Not big on showing your bum? No problem! The L.L. Bean Slimming Swim Skirt offers great coverage without hiding your lovely figure. Hitting mid-leg, it has discrete bottoms beneath the skirt, which means you can bend, dive, and whatever else without showing too much. The high-waisted design is made of a blend of Italian nylon, spandex, and lycra, and gently cinches you in. It’s available in plus size, and comes in several shades of blue, as well as black. Whether you prefer to wear this while splashing in the pool or lounging, you’ll benefit from its UPF 50 plus protection, and flattering fit. To complete the ensemble, pair with a matching halter bikini top or a printed tankini top.

Promising review: “The Slimming Swimwear Swim Skirt has a nice, heavy and stretchy fabric…I like the length, the high-waist, and would recommend it to anyone who would like to cover up their upper thighs and not have a muffin top.”

Buy from Swimsuits For All, starting at $28.79

If wearing a bathing suit makes you feel like you’re walking around in your underwear, consider these Zip-Pocket Swim Shorts your comfier alternative. Made from a combo of lycra and nylon, the swim skirt is slimming to the hips, and holds in your tummy without squeezing tightly. The shorts hit a few inches above the knee, so if you’re not into short shorts, these are perfect. The flouncy skirt features pockets where you can keep your phone or a waterproof camera — remember those? Starting at size 14, the swimwear goes up size 34, and is available in black and purple.

Promising review: “This is the best swim skirt ever. It’s perfect for waterparks, beaches, and water sports. I felt more confident and active with the shorts underneath, especially on waterslides. And having a pocket to stash keys or ID cards is amazing. It stayed in place without adjusting and I didn’t need a coverup while walking around.”

Buy at Macys, $148.50 – Use code: MOM

This cute swim dress offers coverage to your lower half, and highlights the feminine form. The thick straps of the halter top provide support and enhance the bust, while the all-over body control material makes you look like you’ve dropped 10 pounds. If you’ve been on the hunt for something that shapes, slims, and enhances, this is it! Available in black, as well as midnight blue.

Promising review: “I had purchased a Miraclesuit a few years ago and have never looked back since! This is a very flattering swimsuit if you are a curvy girl — it’s worth the investment. Besides being a great fit, a coverup is not needed.“

Buy from Athleta, $59

Although not technically a skirt, skorts offer the same type of movement — and coverage. Whether you’re swimming, paddleboarding, or just frolicking through the sprinklers, you’ll love these light, quick-drying ones from Athleta. They skim the legs, allowing you to kick your legs without having to tug any material back into place, and there are built-in waterproof undies for fuller coverage. We’re advocates of sunscreen, but these are UPF 50 plus rated, and can be tossed in the washer when you’re done playing outside. Available in elfin purple, black, and deep blue, any one would look lovely with a bikini halter, or this bright Cabana Life Rashguard.

Promising review: “This is a very comfortable swim short. The waistband is soft and doesn’t squeeze you but still feels secure. It’s great for some extra coverage, while still looking cute. It runs slightly large, but not enough for me to size down.”

Buy at Bare Necessities, $76

What makes a swim skirt great is that it really looks like streetwear, so if you need to run to the store mid pool party, you don’t have to change. One of the best swim skirts for this come from Bare Necessities’s Sunset Sporty collection. Each features a high-waist, and zippered pockets where you can put your I.D., keys, or cash. Although the skirt has a relaxed fit, its luxe microfiber creates some structure to enhance your shape, and it would look super cute with a T-shirt as you dash across the street. Boy briefs are sewn in beneath, giving full coverage, and you can pair whichever you choose with your favorite tank, bikini, or tankini top when it’s time to swim again. Happy customers love to layer it on top of their favorite one-piece, and suggest sizing down for the best fit.

Promising review: “This has good quality construction, nice fabric, and is a great fit…It’s totally cute! Since I’m a size 12 I originally bought the extra-large, but I returned it and ordered a size large for a better fit.”

Buy from HerRoom, $110

We see this tropical print swimsuit worn on some island, but even if you’re just hanging by the pool, you’ll still look gorgeous wearing it. The swimsuit has elastic built into the back, sides, and tummy to help it adapt to your shape. Microfiber smooths any lumps or bulges, and the bust has soft cups sewn in for a touch of support. But what makes this number really shine, however, is its detachable wrap. The swim skirt can be worn to the side to show a hint of upper leg, or worn as a regular swim skirt. It’s on the short side, but we support ladies flaunting whatever they’re comfortable with, so it’s all good in our book.

Bestseller!

Buy from Swimsuits For All, from $23.98 (was $114)

Can’t you see yourself splashing around in a fun number like this? And if this print doesn’t suit you, the Tie Front Underwire Swim Dress comes in eight other vibrant options, each with a sweetheart neckline and gauzy skirt. The bodice has an underwire bra, making this an ideal choice for those with a larger chest. The soft cups are removable — if that’s your preference, and the sides can also be adjusted, so no side cleavage shows. The A-line silhouette offers a relaxed fit, but there’s some stretch in the suit beneath, and it’s hip and tummy minimizing. Regardless if you like a modest swimwear or want something youthful and flirty, you’ll love how this makes you feel.

Promising review: “Once I ditched the cup liners, this suit was adorable! It’s actually comfortable. I haven’t been to the beach in years, but I did so feeling as secure, covered and confident as possible thanks to this suit. I definitely recommend.”

Buy from Lulus, $55

Wraps are great for coverage outside of the water. We like this semi-sheer Swim Skirt Coverup Wrap for its light material and gorgeous print. It ties to the side, so you can run through the sand or back to your hotel room without it ripping. Since it’s short you’ll be able to still tan your legs (don’t forget your SPF), and there’s a hidden button closure for additional security. Lulus has a bikini top and bottom in a matching print, but this would also look great with a solid color one-piece or tankini.

Buy from L.L. Bean, starting at $89.99

Made from a sturdy lycra fabric, this cute swim dress has just enough slimming stretch to flatten out your middle. Its material is resistant to resist chlorine, sun damage, and offers UPF 50 plus protection for those lazy afternoons on the beach. The halter top lifts your chest, while providing support, and the cut isn’t low enough to be risque. A little flowy but still form fitting, this will quickly become your go-to swimsuit. Available in regular, plus size, and long.

Promising review: “This swim dress is slimming, flattering, and comfortable. I have a scar on my upper thigh, and it covers it perfectly.“

Buy from Venus, Swim Skirt ($21.99), Bikini Top ($16.99)

Show off your work at the gym with this spunkier version of the little black bikini. The swim skirt sits right on the hips, and has a slimming A-line silhouette. The colorful waistband doesn’t have elastic, which means you won’t have those pesky skin indentations that some skirts cause. There are bikini bottoms sewn in for additional protection, so whether you’re at the beach bar or relaxing in the jacuzzi, nothing private will be exposed. The underwire bikini top offers a better lift for bustier ladies, but if you prefer something more natural, a Triangle String Bikini Top of the same print is also available.

Promising review: “I will be buying this in different colors. What I like about it is the fact that it’s not binding in the stomach area... It also doesn’t flare out on the legs like many swim bottoms do, and it’s not too long, so it doesn’t take long to dry.”

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Buy from Lane Bryant, $59.37

Keep it easy and breezy with this Lane Bryant Printed Mesh Swim Dress. Its pull over design is as fuss-free as they come, and there’s a tad more length to the flyaway skirt to cover the thigh area. The bodice has a shelf bra, so if you find underwire uncomfortable — this is for you. The straps can be adjusted for fuller support, and the suit has built-in briefs, allowing you to chicken fight, splash, and do laps without revealing too much. The machine washable swimsuit comes in four gorgeous prints, each made from eco-friendly material, so you basically have to buy one — you know, for the sake of the planet.

Buy from J.Crew, $46.50

Every body is a beach body, but if you’re more comfortable keeping yours under wraps, this Convertible Beach Sarong is just the thing. Available in several different colors, it can be worn as a halter or bandeau dress, or wrapped around your waist. It’s made of cotton, so you won’t feel weighed down by the fabric, and the split allows the breeze to hit your legs. Wear it on top of your favorite bikini bottoms or swimsuit when you want to ditch the pool for the bathroom or snack bar. No one will see a peek of your derriere.

Promising review: “I truly like how it’s already preset that all I have to do is tie it instead of fixing it to drape. The fabric relaxed after I washed and ironed it. It’s a dressy cover-up. I got it in black, and am thinking of getting the fuchsia as well.”

Buy from Boston Proper, $69.98 (was $172)

For days you just want to lounge poolside with your feet in the water, try this Boston Proper Romper. It’s flouncy, light, and offers a little more coverage than a basic suit. The drapey blouse doesn’t cling to your middle, and it has a shelf bra with soft cups for extra support. The shorts are…well, short. They do, however, come with pockets, and fully cover the bum area, which is all you really need. The bedazzled straps add a touch of sparkle, ensuring you’ll make a splash whether you wear this on vacation or at the next family pool party.

Promising review: “The suit is true to size and covers just right!”

Buy from Amazon, $42.66

This swim pant/skirt combo has the best of both worlds: a flare skirt that balances out your curves, and attached swim capris that provide extra coverage. It come in two solid colors other than this fun print, offers UPF 50 plus protection, and is ultra-stretchy. These can be worn swimming, but also when you play tennis or racquetball!

Promising review: “Seriously stop looking – these are the ones you want! They fit perfectly and are much more durable than other brands. I bought so many similar items and returned all but these. Vacation here I come!”

Buy at Amazon, starting at $26.99

If showing your upper thighs makes you cringe, you’ll love this swim skirt from Hilor. It’s hard to believe you could crawl stroke in it, but you can! It has built-in bottoms, and a relaxed fit for you to kick, doggy paddle, and more. Along with being great for the pool, it can be worn to play tennis, paddleboarding, and whatever else you can think of. The high-waist has a wider elastic band and tummy control to smooth a muffin top out of sight, and the skirt falls a few inches above the knee. Available in fifteen colors, more than 3,000 happy customers at Amazon recommend it.

Promising review: “Perfect length for my self conscious self! I do wish the waist was a little higher to hide stretch marks but other than that it’s the perfect swim skirt. Received tons [compliments] from women asking where I purchased it.”

Buy from QVC, Tankini top ($98), Swim Skirt ($66)

Sometimes the swimsuit just doesn’t fit, so we like that there’s a free return policy on this bathing suite from Cabana Life. However, there are other reasons it made our cut. It has figure enhancing soft cups in the bodice, providing extra support and shape. The empire-waist and V-neckline draw eyes upward, distracting from your middle, and when worn with a pair of wedges, you’ll look like you’re in a cute mini-dress. Available in small, medium, and large, this tankini top goes great with the Cabana Life Swim Skirt, which has a cinch tie on the side, bikini briefs, and lots of stretch.

Buy from J. Crew, $69.50

This vintage-style skirted swimsuit may look super short, but it has low cut briefs beneath that fully cover your tush. The bodice has cups to enhance your shape, but if you’re not into padding, they can be easily removed. The suit includes a strap to keep it in place, but to avoid weird tan lines, detach and wear as photoed above. Made from a combo of elastic, recycled polyester and nylon, this sustainable number is youthful without being young, and would look great on women of all ages. To really make a fashion statement while you’re catching some rays, pair with these bohemian-style raffia sandals, and this straw market tote.

Promising review: “This is so cute. I’m 52-years-old, and was having a hard time finding the right suit — not too old and not too young. I feel like this fit me perfectly! It’s well made, and worth the money!”

Buy from Talbots, $105.50

Tankinis may be the best invention to swimwear (thanks Anne Cole) since goggles, and this one may be our favorite. Covered in a bold floral print, the swim skirt has a side vent for mobility, and the tankini’s straps can be adjusted for better support. Both pieces offer sun protection, and feature Miraclesuit’s slimming material that nips and tucks you in just where you need. If you’re wearing this to the beach, you’ll want to wear with some wedged flip flops. However, if you’ll be practicing your backstroke in the neighbor’s pool, keep things extra stylish by adding these leather slides. Owners of this vibrant swimsuit set love it’ bright color, but warn that it has an underwire, which some may not like.

Promising review: “I specifically bought this style with the wide and far apart shoulder straps. The material is beautiful, and I love the vibrant colors. I also chose the matching skirt. I can now go to the beach with my grandsons and not be embarrassed.”

Buy from Amazon, $69.97

If you’ve been hunting for the swim skirts from Kenneth Cole, you’re not the only one. This popular swimwear item is sold out practically everywhere! Fortunately for you, yours truly tracked them down on Amazon — you’re welcome. I admit, the Ruffle Shuffle Bikini Bottom is super cute, and will leave no one the wiser if you forget to shave your bikini-line. Although the photo doesn’t show it, the bathing suit beneath fully covers your backside, and the ruching design of the front is slimming. Team with your favorite bikini or tankini top, or even with a T-shirt if you’re not planning on swimming. The swim skirt sits on the hips, which gives the illusion of a longer torso, and if you’re petite or have a bit of a muffin top, you’ll like how the skirt creates a more feminine shape without showing all your business.

Promising review: “I bought this swim bottom years ago and my old one was stretched and old. I found this and bought again, but a size smaller than last time. I love this bottom. It has the perfect coverage. Very spunky and its low! I’m not one to wear the high-waisted stuff — looks ridiculous on me — but I love low rise!”

Buy from Amazon, $69

I love kayaking, and a swim skirt with a board short is the best thing to do it in. For one thing, it’s not a big deal if you get wet. Secondly, it’s much cooler than basic workout gear. These, from Coolibar, are my favorite, offering protection from the sun and chlorine. It has a four-way stretch, and sits high on your waist, keeping your middle tucked in. The front has a bit of ruching, and there’s even a small interior pocket! All you need is your paddle shoes, and you’re good to row.

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Promising review: “I can’t say how much I love these. The backs of my thighs and higher get burned on snorkeling trips, especially if the swimsuit moves and exposes areas that don’t get any sun. These have completely solved this issue. Cute enough for wearing down to the beach and on hikes that ended at beaches and waterfalls in Hawaii, they never chaffed and were of excellent quality.”