I'm a firm believer in wearing whatever you want to wear and that EVERY body is a bikini body. However, I know from experience that most women feel a certain amount of trepidation when it comes to swimwear. We want to feel comfortable and look great - that's a lot to ask from a tiny scrap of fabric!
Finding flattering swimwear that suits your body shape can be stressful whatever your size and it can be even more tricky if you are blessed with ample boobs. Finding the best swimsuits for fuller busts is essential, whether you're planning an active holiday or simply want to relax on a sun lounger with a good book.
I wear a size 32FF bra and have had big boobs since I was a teenager. I can remember the days when a tiny string bikini was my swimwear of choice, but that was long ago and over time my confidence has slowly ebbed away - breastfeeding, the menopause and fluctuations in weight have altered my shape over the years.
When it comes to everyday dressing, I rely on the best bras for large busts to ensure I look my best. I'm a fashion stylist and trained bra fitter, and have done lots of research into the best bra shapes and styles that offer the most support. The best swimwear for a large bust will incorporate many of the same clever design features as your favourite bra to increase your confidence and help you to kick back and relax.
Price: RRP £58
Sizes: S-4XL (30B - 48E)
Padding: Removable soft pads
Wired: Yes
Colours Available: 3
Care: Cool machine wash
Shapermint has been popping up on my Instagram feed for a while now, and I've been impressed with the confident and curvy women they feature wearing their body shaping undies and swimwear. I hadn't worn any of their styles before, but their bikinis have tested well with our experts in previous swimwear features, so I decided to try it for myself.
I ordered the Shapermint Essentials Full Coverage Halter Bikini Top and paired it with matching High Waisted Control Bikini Bottoms. I opted for a large, which was the recommended size for a FF cup, but if you want less cleavage on show, I would size up for more coverage.
I wore the bikini for 3-4 hours and considered the level of support and comfort it provided, along with how I looked when pictured in it (important if, like me, you love to overshare your holiday snaps!) Although I wasn't able to take the bikini to the beach, I did go swimming in my local pool to test how it performed in water - here's what I thought.
Shapermint Essentials Full Coverage Halter Bikini Top
If you're looking for a classic halterneck bikini top that is sleek and simple, without any fancy frills or trimmings, this chic black style ticks all the boxes. There is a choice of 4 matching bottoms, including a cute swim skirt that's perfect if you want more coverage.
Shapermint Essentials Full Coverage Halter Bikini Top Review
Shape & Design
The cups of this bikini top are made from two parts with a centre seam, extending up to become the halterneck straps. They are lined and have a small opening to allow you to remove the lightweight pads that are hidden inside. The underwires are soft and flexible. There are no fastenings - both the neck and back straps need to be tied in a knot and bow (or double knot if you prefer) to secure in place. The front of the bikini plunges to a deep V, and the middle measures approximately 6cm.
Support & Fit
I think halter styles are really flattering on women with big boobs who want to celebrate their shape. I felt great in this top, as the neckline made my shoulders look narrower and drew attention to my cleavage. You can easily adjust the top for a perfect fit; you simply tighten or loosen the straps according to your size and the amount of support needed. I tied the straps firmly so that I felt my boobs were lifted.
The cups provided complete coverage under my arms and across the top of my boobs, but the plunging neckline did reveal quite a lot of cleavage. The top provided an adequate amount of support for general wear, and I felt confident walking and swimming gently in it, but I wouldn't attempt a game of beach volleyball - too risky!
Comfort
Made from a smooth and soft fabric, this bikini top is light, with no clasps or decorative details that could dig in or irritate. I chose to fasten both the neck and back ties very tightly in order to feel the maximum support, and this did lead to it feeling uncomfortable after a few hours, but this was easily remedied by loosening them. I also felt the knots when I was lying on my back, which might annoy you if you plan to sunbathe for a length of time.
Care
The label in this bikini states that it can be machine washed on a cool gentle setting, but I opted not to because I prefer to hand wash any items with underwires. The bikini washed well and retained its shape, and dried quickly.
As with all swimwear, I suggest rinsing well after swimming in a chlorinated pool. I haven't yet had the chance to test the durability of the fabric over a long period of time, but I will continue to report on any changes in quality and update if necessary.
Verdict
This bikini top felt great to wear and provided a good level of support with ample coverage combined with a plunging neckline for a flattering look. Not suitable if you plan to be super active on holiday, but great for a fun day on the beach or around the pool.
Shop more colours
RRP £58 | Nothing says 'seaside' more than stripes and this blue/white colourway would be perfect for my holiday to Cornwall. The position of the stripes are flattering too as they highlight the natural shape of your bust.
RRP £58 | Softer than black, this ocean blue shade will flatter all skin tones. Add a pair of denim shorts, a chambray shirt and your best white trainers for the perfect sightseeing outfit.
