For all women, summertime means bathing suit season, which for some can be daunting. This can be especially true for moms — especially new mommies or moms-to-be. Moms with older children have other considerations, including the need for sports suits or modest suits for the community pool. Read on for your mommy summer swimwear guide.
Pregnant and poolside
Pregnant women are so gorgeous and can look fabulous at the pool or beach in a variety of styles. A tankini is the ultimate choice because it gives you the feel of a one-piece and the convenience of a two-piece. A halter style gives you the option to tighten or loosen as your baby (and breasts!) grow. You can also cinch it up if you feel like showing off your beautiful belly. Try a bright color this summer like this teal Side Ruched Maternity Tankini from A Pea in the Pod ($80) seen above. To cover up, look for a strapless, smocked style that can easily be pulled over your bathing suit. For a fashion-forward style, try this High-low Hem Maternity Swim Coverup by A Pea in the Pod ($60).
Breastfeeding and the beach
New moms that are nursing need additional features so they can spend time with their little ones at the pool or seaside. Look for a style specifically geared toward nursing moms like this Classic One Piece Nursing Bathing Suit ($49). This style sports a double layer across the chest so all you have to do is lift the outer layer to reveal two slits on the lower layer.
New mommy, hide tummy
Another challenge for new moms is to feel body-confident — especially around their tummy and hips. Moms in this in-between stage should look for styles with side ruching or draping in the front. One to try is the Whittle Waistline Draped One Piece by Spanx ($198) seen above. The front draping can smooth any lumps and bumps while the inner lining of Spanx shapewear helps to flatten your tummy. If you are feeling self-conscious about your hips, try a swim dress like this Halter Swim Dress by Spanx ($188). The A-line silhouette will give the illusion of a slimmer waistline while the skirt can camouflage hips.
Mommy & me
Little girls always love to dress up like their mommies, so why not match while at the beach or pool? Two to try are the Sandy String Bottom Ties and Keene Ruffle Bandeau (sold separately at lillypulitzer.com, top $78, bottom, $48). Match your little one in this Sandy One Shoulder Piece Swimsuit ($68).
Mommy, play in the pool with me!
It’s time for moms to get active with their kids at the pool and beach. Running around in a string bikini is usually not the best option, so look for styles that provide support and coverage. Great options are suits that come with bottoms in dolphin, boy or board shorts, like these styles from Athleta that have corresponding bikini tops, tankinis, dolphin or board shorts. One to try is the Crescent Bay Floral Wrap Racerback Tankini Top ($59) paired with the Crescent Bay Floral Boy Short ($44,).
Sexy mama
There are some days (like a date night away with hubby) or an adult pool party that mom will want to feel like a bikini model. To maximize your bust and still have support, look for a halter top style (with or without padding). Unleash your inner Bond girl with a metallic style like this Shirred-detail halter bikini ($109). Pair it with glamorous chandelier earrings and wedge shoes to elongate your legs. Another sexy look to try is the monokini, like this Kenneth Cole Plunge Monokini ($98) seen above. The adjustable straps allow you to adjust coverage depending on your mood!
Watch: How to wear your hair at the pool or beach
Love going to the beach or pool but don’t know what to do with your hair? Here are a few quick hairstyle ideas for beach days and pool parties.
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