Swimsuit shopping is the fitting session most women over 60 dread, and usually it's because they've been shown the same plain black tank for years. The choice is much wider now: tankinis, swim dresses, rash guards, retro high-waisted bikinis and plenty in between. What makes a suit work isn't the suit alone. It's the cover-up you walk to the snack bar in, the sandals that cope with hot sand, the hat that actually shades your shoulders. So each of the 35 ideas below is a complete outfit, with the fit points I check before anyone leaves the fitting room, for beach trips, pool days with grandchildren or an afternoon in the sun.
Sit, Bend and Reach in the Fitting Room
A swimsuit that looks fine standing still can fail the moment you sit on a towel. I ask every client to do three moves in front of the mirror before we decide anything.
- Sit on a bench. Check the leg openings don't cut in, the tummy panel doesn't fold and the back doesn't gape at the waist.
- Bend forward as if picking up a towel. This is where a deep neckline or loose cups show more than you expected.
- Raise both arms. Tankini tops should still meet the bottoms, and straps shouldn't slide off the shoulders.
Torso length is the fit issue most women never hear about. If one-pieces always dig into your shoulders or pull at the crotch, you probably have a long torso, and many swim brands sell long-torso sizes for exactly that. Separates fix it too, since top and bottom are never pulling against each other.
1. One piece swimsuit with sarong cover up
A one-piece with a sarong is the first outfit I'd put together for most women in this age group, because it's so easy to adjust. Look for ruching across the middle; it gives gentle tummy control without a tight panel. Tie the sarong at the hip for a longer line or at the waist if you want the leg covered more. A solid navy or black suit with a printed sarong is the safe version; a patterned suit with a plain wrap feels fresher. Flat leather sandals, big sunglasses and a wide straw hat finish it. Leather straps do stiffen after saltwater, so rinse them.
2. Tankini top with swim skirt and sandals
The real reason I suggest a tankini with a swim skirt isn't coverage. It's the bathroom. Peeling off a wet one-piece in a beach stall is miserable, and a two-piece solves it. Pick a blouson top that floats over the stomach rather than clinging, with adjustable straps and a built-in shelf bra, and a skirted bottom that covers hips and upper thighs. Waterproof slides handle sand and wet decking. A light button-front cover-up over the shoulders gets you from beach to boardwalk. Check the top is long enough to meet the skirt when you raise your arms.
3. High waisted bikini with oversized hat and sunglasses
High-waisted bikini bottoms surprise a lot of women over 60. The rise sits at or just above the navel, so the tummy is covered and smoothed, and the hips are fully covered too. Pair them with a supportive halter or underwire top, and the effect is retro rather than revealing. An oversized straw hat protects face and shoulders, and dark cat-eye sunglasses add a little fun. For walking to the snack bar, a sheer chiffon cover-up or open kimono is enough. I always have clients sit down in the bottoms in the fitting room; if the waistband folds over when seated, go a size up or choose a firmer fabric.
4. Swim dress with wedge sandals and tote bag
A swim dress is a one-piece with a short attached skirt, so it's one garment and no decisions. The skirt skims hips and upper thighs while the bodice marks the waist, which is why both pear and apple shapes tend to like it. I look for adjustable straps, soft sewn-in cups and moderate leg openings. Low wedge sandals give a bit of height and still grip on sand, and a roomy canvas or straw tote holds sunscreen, water and a book. You can go from a morning swim to a casual lunch without changing. Choose a skirt fabric that drains quickly; heavy skirts cling and drag when you leave the water.
5. Rash guard and board shorts with water shoes
Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling or wading in with grandchildren all call for something you don't have to think about. That's where a rash guard and board shorts combination comes in. A long-sleeve rash guard in UPF 50+ fabric means far less sunscreen to reapply on arms and back. Mid-length board shorts with a drawstring stay secure, and water shoes with grippy soles protect against hot sand and rocks. Add a waterproof crossbody pouch for keys. Size the rash guard close to the body; a loose one balloons with water and drags when you swim.
6. Tummy control one piece with linen cover up
Tummy-control one-pieces use a firm inner panel and ruching across the middle to give a smooth line. I check the fabric label: roughly 15 to 20 percent spandex gives a good balance of stretch and hold, while much less feels stiff and much more loses its grip quickly. A scoop or V neckline draws the eye up, and wide straps don't dig into the shoulders. Over it, a linen cover-up stays cool because linen breathes, and a button-front linen shirt dress or tunic can be worn open or closed. Thong sandals and a small crossbody finish it. Sit down in the suit before buying; a panel that pinches when seated will pinch all afternoon.
7. Blouson tankini and swim shorts with flip flops
A blouson tankini top with swim shorts looks sporty without tipping into frumpy, as long as the blouson only drapes and doesn't tent. The shorts give more coverage than a bikini bottom and stay light in the water. It's a sensible pick for beach walks, gentle swimming or keeping an eye on kids at the splash pad. Choose a top with a built-in bra and wide straps, in quick-drying fabric that won't hang heavy when wet. Rubber flip flops and a zip hoodie or terry pullover for afterwards finish it. Cotton shorts are a common mistake here; they stay wet for hours.
8. Halter one piece with wide leg beach pants
Halter necks lift the bust and pull attention up to the shoulders, which suits many women with a fuller chest because the straps can be tightened. The trade-off is neck strain: if you have a heavy bust or neck trouble, I'd choose a halter that also has a back strap so the weight isn't all on the tie. Pair the suit with wide-leg beach pants in light rayon or chiffon, with an elastic waist so they go on easily over a damp suit. Metallic flat sandals, a cuff bracelet and a straw clutch make it smart enough for a resort dinner.
9. Bandeau tankini with high waisted bikini bottom
A bandeau tankini over high-waisted bottoms feels fresh for a two-piece. The straight neckline stays put only if it has silicone grip lining, and I'd insist on removable straps for swimming. The high bottom reaches the natural waist and smooths the middle, which many women find reassuring. It's good for sunbathing because there are fewer strap lines on the shoulders. A long sheer open cover-up, embellished flip flops and a big tote complete it. A bold printed bandeau with a solid bottom keeps the balance; two prints at once usually fight.
10. Short sleeve rash guard with swim leggings
If sun protection is your first concern, a short-sleeve rash guard with swim leggings covers almost everything. The rash guard protects shoulders and upper arms, and compression leggings cover waist to ankle. I'd use this for water aerobics, laps or a long day outdoors with family. Look for UPF 50+ fabric and flatlock seams, which lie flat and stop chafing. The leggings need a wide waistband that doesn't roll when you bend. A light cap and slip-on water shoes, plus a microfiber towel and insulated bottle in the bag, cover the rest. Remember the backs of hands and feet still need sunscreen.
11. V-neck one piece with kimono cover up
A V-neck one-piece draws a long vertical line from chin to waist, which is why it flatters so many shapes. If the V is deeper than you like, a suit with a front clasp or zip lets you set the coverage yourself. Over it, a kimono in a tropical print or a soft pastel gives loose sleeves and an open front, enough coverage to walk to the pool without trapping heat. Flat jeweled sandals, a beaded necklace and a floppy wide-brim hat lean bohemian. I'd check the V depth while bending forward in the mirror, since that's when a deep neckline shows more than expected.
12. Off-shoulder one piece with straw tote bag
An off-shoulder one-piece frames the collarbone and shoulders, and I find it suits women who like their arms and décolletage but prefer the tummy covered. It stays up with elastic along the neckline, and removable straps are worth having for actual swimming. Solid jewel tones like emerald or sapphire look rich in strong sun. A large straw tote with leather handles holds sunscreen and a novel, and neutral leather sandals keep it grounded. A thin gold necklace and tortoiseshell sunglasses suit a beach club or resort pool. Without straps, there's less lift, so it's better for a small to medium bust.
13. Twist front tankini with swim capris
A twist-front tankini gathers fabric at the bust and waist, which adds shape to a straighter, rectangle figure. Swim capris that end just below the knee give modest leg coverage and still look athletic. The capris need a soft elastic waist and a leg opening that doesn't ride up when you move. I'd suggest this for water walking, casual swimming or beach yoga. A zip-front jacket before and after the swim, supportive sport sandals and a neoprene bottle sling finish it. Capris take longer to dry than shorts, so pack a dry pair if you're driving home.
14. Color block one piece with slide sandals
Color blocking is the most comfortable kind of slimming suit, because the work is done by placement rather than compression. Darker side panels narrow the waist visually while a lighter or brighter center panel pulls the eye inward. Choose wide straps and a modest scoop neck for support and coverage. Cushioned slides go on easily and handle sand and pavement. Layer a crisp white cotton shirt-dress cover-up and a simple pendant. I always check where the panel seams sit on the body; if the dark section stops at the widest point of your hip, the effect works in reverse.
15. Retro high waisted bikini with cat eye sunglasses
A retro high-waisted bikini is the most playful outfit here and it suits women who still like a two-piece. The high-rise bottom sits at the natural waist, and a structured halter or bandeau with underwire gives lift and shape. Bold cat-eye sunglasses lean 1950s. A sheer mesh sarong at the hip gives cover when you want it, and metallic thong sandals, a red lip and a small straw clutch suit a cruise pool deck or beach club. If your bust is large, I'd pick the halter with underwire over the bandeau; bandeaus need a lot of grip to hold weight.
16. Ruffle tankini top with skirted swim bottom
Ruffles at the neckline or hem of a tankini add movement and quietly blur the bust or tummy. Because they pull the eye outward at the top, they balance wider hips well. Pair the top with a skirted bottom that covers the upper thighs, kept short and light, with attached briefs. Long, heavy swim skirts are what make this look dated. Flat espadrilles, a woven crossbody and a sun visor finish it for a family beach day. Ruffles hold water, so they take longer to dry; I'd keep them small if you're in and out of the sea all day.
17. Underwire one piece with sheer cover up
An underwire one-piece supports a fuller bust the way a good bra does, with structured cups and adjustable straps. It's the suit I most often recommend to clients who say they've never felt held in swimwear. Over it, a sheer cover-up in a matching or complementary color, a long chiffon tunic or an open maxi with side slits, adds drama without weight. Low-heeled mules and drop earrings take it from the pool to a seaside cocktail hour. Swimsuits are sized differently from bras, so try it on with your bra size in mind and check the wire ends sit flat, not on breast tissue.
18. Long sleeve swim shirt with swim shorts
For active beach days, a long-sleeve swim shirt with swim shorts is what I'd wear myself. A fitted UPF 50+ shirt protects arms, shoulders and chest and dries fast; a quarter-zip lets you cool down when it's hot. Mid-length shorts with a relaxed fit through hip and thigh keep you moving for beachcombing, sailing or paddleboarding. Polarized sunglasses cut glare off the water, and with a cap and amphibious water shoes you're covered head to toe. Pale swim shirts can turn a little see-through when wet, so hold one up to the light before buying.
19. Square neck one piece with flowy maxi cover up
A square-neck one-piece gives a clean, modern line across the collarbone and covers the bust well. Pair it with a flowing maxi cover-up in cotton voile or crinkled rayon, both of which dry quickly and don't show creases. Worn open, it's a duster; belted, it gives shape. A full-length cover-up also protects the legs from sun, which matters more than people think on long lunches outdoors. Flat leather sandals and a beaded pouch clutch take it from a morning swim to lunch on a terrace. Square necks suit broad shoulders well, since the horizontal line balances them.
20. Printed tankini with solid swim skirt
Put the print on top and keep the bottom solid; it's the simplest way to steer attention toward your face. A tankini in a floral, paisley or geometric print with a black, navy or white swim skirt does exactly that. The skirt needs built-in briefs and a comfortable elastic waist. Flip flops, a canvas tote and a light denim jacket tied over the shoulders for the evening breeze finish it. Because the pieces are separate, you can buy different sizes top and bottom, which I recommend to almost every client whose bust and hips aren't the same size category.
21. Ruffled one piece with espadrille wedges
Ruffles on a one-piece, across the shoulder or bodice, soften the look and can balance a larger bust or add volume to a smaller chest. Keep the suit a solid color so the ruffle is the only detail. Espadrille wedges add some height and stay stable on sand or cobbles better than a thin heel. A linen wrap skirt tied at the waist becomes your cover-up once you're out of the water. Layered gold bracelets and a straw fedora finish it. Jute espadrille soles soak up water and lose shape, so I'd keep these off wet decking.
22. Sporty zip front one piece with jacket
A zip-front one-piece lets you choose the neckline: zipped up for laps, a little lower for lying in the sun. For regular pool swimming, look for chlorine-resistant fabric, usually a high-polyester blend, because plain spandex suits lose their stretch fast in treated water. A shelf bra and wide straps give support. Throw a matching light zip jacket on between swims. Cushioned pool slides, a waterproof watch and a mesh tote for goggles, towel and bottle make it a good water aerobics or community pool outfit. Make sure the zip pull has a garage, a fabric flap, or it rubs your chin.
23. Tankini top with cropped swim leggings
Cropped swim leggings give leg coverage and a modern look at the same time. They offer compression and sun protection from waist to mid-calf and stay cool in the water. The tankini on top should be a little longer than usual so it overlaps the leggings' waistband and doesn't leave a strip of skin when you bend. It's a good outfit for water sports, beach volleyball or running after energetic grandchildren. A sleeveless zip vest, aqua socks for rocky shores and a wide-brim hat with a chin strap, so the wind doesn't take it, complete it.
24. Plunge one piece with tassel cover up
A plunge one-piece has a deep V at the front but still covers the torso fully. Many come with a decorative clasp or mesh inset, which I like because it softens the depth without losing the long line. A tassel-trimmed cover-up adds movement as you walk and suits holiday settings like a tropical resort, a cruise deck or a destination wedding weekend. Flat strappy sandals and a shell necklace keep the accessories natural, so the tassels stay the focus. A plunge needs a firm, well-fitted cup; if you're fuller-busted, check it during a forward lean before buying.
25. Cap sleeve swim dress with statement earrings
Cap sleeves give a little arm coverage on a swim dress, and I suggest them to women who don't like strapless or thin straps. The attached skirt covers hips and thighs, and shirring at the waist defines the middle without squeezing. Bold earrings in resin, wood or light metal bring attention up to your face, and they won't weigh down your ears or tarnish the way heavier metal does near water. Metallic flat sandals and a woven clutch make it a poolside lunch outfit. Raise your arms in the fitting room; cap sleeves that are cut tight pull the whole bodice up.
26. Tie waist one piece with raffia tote bag
A tie at the waist of a one-piece pulls in the narrowest part of the torso and gives an hourglass line, and you can set the tension yourself. A raffia tote adds natural texture and holds all the beach-day essentials; raffia is light and sturdy but doesn't love being soaked, so keep wet towels in a separate bag. Leather slides and tortoiseshell sunglasses keep it understated. It suits a quiet afternoon reading, a stroll after a swim or a resort spa day. Tie bows flat and to one side; a big bow at center front sits where you'd rather not draw the eye.
27. Halter tankini with swim pants
A halter tankini gives lift and support through the bust and leaves most of the back open, which is cooler on hot days. Adjust the neck tie until the cups sit level. Swim pants in a light, quick-drying fabric with a relaxed fit cover the legs fully, useful if you're sun-sensitive or simply prefer coverage. A long-sleeve sun shirt for the middle of the day, comfortable water sandals and a packable wide-brim hat complete it. I'd suggest this for boat trips or fishing, where you're exposed for hours with reflected glare off the water.
28. Belted swim dress with flat sandals
A belted swim dress has a sewn-in or removable belt, so it reads almost like a summer dress. The belt marks the smallest point of the torso and the skirt flows over hips and thighs. It's especially good for apple and rectangle shapes that like waist definition. Flat sandals in a metallic or neutral shade, a cropped linen jacket or open cardigan for breezy afternoons, a leather wristlet and pearl studs make it smart enough for lunch out. Removable belts are better than sewn-in ones in my experience; you can swap a fabric belt that has started to fade for a fresh one.
29. Peplum tankini top with high waisted swim bottoms
A peplum tankini flares out from the waist over the hips, which is exactly where many women in their 60s want soft coverage. High-waisted bottoms that sit above the hip bone keep the line under the flare smooth. The result covers the tummy and still looks like a choice, not a hiding place. Heeled flip flops give a little lift, a straw visor shades the face, and a towel in a coordinating color makes it a cheerful pool party outfit. The peplum should end at the top of the thigh; much longer and it starts to look like a swim dress gone wrong.
30. Keyhole one piece with sheer maxi cover up
A keyhole opening at the front of a one-piece shows a little skin just below the collarbone, often finished with a clasp or ring. It's a subtle detail that photographs well. For evening beach walks, I pair it with a sheer maxi cover-up in a dark contrasting color, so the suit shows through without being exposed. Strappy flat sandals and a metallic clutch let you go straight on to an early dinner. Metal ring details can get hot in direct sun, so I'd look for coated or fabric-covered hardware if you lie out for long.
31. Mock neck tankini with board shorts
A mock-neck tankini covers the chest and neckline more than most tops, which helps if you burn easily across the upper chest or prefer a higher neck. Pair it with board shorts that end just above the knee for a sporty, confident look. Choose quick-drying four-way stretch so you can bend and climb without the fabric pulling. A zip hoodie for cool mornings, lace-up water shoes with real traction and a dry bag for phone and keys make it ready for kayaking or exploring tide pools with grandchildren. A higher neck can feel warm on still days, so look for a light fabric.
32. Wrap one piece swimsuit with wedge espadrilles
A wrap one-piece crosses fabric over the bodice and ties at the side waist, like a wrap dress. It cinches the waist and makes a V neckline that lengthens the torso, and the tie lets you set the fit. A rich solid like plum or teal looks particularly refined. Wedge espadrilles add height for beachside restaurants or a boardwalk walk. Finish with a gold cuff, a light pashmina over the shoulders when the sun drops, and a leather crossbody. Wraps can shift during real swimming, so I'd keep this one for lounging and gentle dips.
33. Crochet cover up over one piece swimsuit
Crochet over a plain one-piece adds texture and a handmade feel, with the suit color showing through the open stitches. I'd choose a tunic or knee-length crochet dress with three-quarter sleeves for balance, over a solid suit in cream, tan or soft blue. Flat leather sandals and a suede bucket bag keep the earthy mood. It's a nice outfit for a market visit after the beach or relaxing under a cabana. Cotton crochet stretches when wet and gets heavy, so wear it over a dry suit and lay it flat to dry rather than hanging it.
34. Shirred one piece with oversized beach hat
Shirring, the gathered fabric running down or across a suit, is the most forgiving detail in swimwear. It smooths the middle without a compression panel, so you can wear it comfortably all day. Pair it with an oversized beach hat that shades face, neck and shoulders properly. Simple thong sandals and a mesh beach bag, which lets sand fall straight through, finish it. If you've had a stomach that a firm panel never quite flattered, I'd try shirring first; it moves with you rather than pressing in.
35. Sport tankini with quick dry swim shorts
A sport tankini with quick-dry shorts works hard without looking technical. The top should have a racerback or cross-back for full shoulder movement and a supportive built-in bra. The shorts need a brief liner, a drawstring and fabric that dries soon after you leave the water. It suits lap swimming, beach walks, paddleboarding or anything active. Add a light performance hoodie, sport sunglasses and a waterproof fitness watch. Racerbacks can be tricky to get on wet, so I tell clients to try one on twice in the fitting room before deciding.
Skin That Burns Faster Than It Used To
Skin usually gets thinner and drier with age, and some common medications make it more sensitive to sun. That's why I treat coverage as part of the outfit, not an afterthought. A UPF-rated swim shirt, a hat with a brim of several inches all the way round and a cover-up with sleeves do more than any amount of reapplied lotion on a long day. Still use sunscreen on the parts clothing leaves out: tops of feet, backs of hands, ears and the parting in your hair.
Color matters too. Dark and bright shades block more light than pale ones in the same weight of fabric, so a white cover-up is lovely for looks but does less for your skin than a navy one.
Rinse It, Then Dry It Flat in the Shade
Chlorine, salt and sunscreen break down the stretch fibers in swimwear, and heat finishes the job. After every swim, I rinse the suit in cool fresh water, press the water out without wringing and lay it flat out of direct sun. Never put a swimsuit in the dryer or leave it rolled in a wet towel in a hot car. Hand-wash with a mild detergent every few wears. If a suit goes baggy at the seat or the fabric starts to look thin when stretched, the elastic is gone, and no amount of care will bring it back. For frequent pool swimmers, a chlorine-resistant suit lasts noticeably longer.
A Suit That Holds Up Through a Whole Beach Day
There's something on this list for every shape and every kind of day, from a tummy-control one-piece with linen to a retro bikini or a rash guard with board shorts. What I'd take from all 35 is this: buy for how you'll actually spend the day, then check the fit sitting, bending and with your arms up. Stretch and support matter more than the print. Add the cover-up, hat and sandals that suit where you're going, and you can spend the afternoon in the water instead of thinking about how you look in it.
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