Quick take: After two pregnancies and more beach days than I can count, I’ve learned that the ‘best’ tankini depends on what you need it for.
The first time I tried to wriggle into a pre-pregnancy bikini at 18 weeks, I gave up halfway and texted my husband: ‘Bring the black tankini from the back of the drawer.’ That drawer has since become the most raided spot in my wardrobe. Whether it’s the 3am feed that leaves you with a softer middle, the postpartum body that still feels like a work-in-progress, or just the desire to chase toddlers around a splash pad without worrying about straps slipping or coverage gaps, a good tankini isn’t a luxury—it’s a sanity-saver. Over the past two years, I’ve tested six tankinis across two pregnancies, four beach holidays, and countless local pool sessions with my two under-fives. I’ve worn them in the surf, while building sandcastles, and even while discreetly breastfeeding in a beachside café. What I’ve learned: the right tankini should feel like a second skin, not a shapewear experiment. I looked for four things: fabric that dries in minutes and doesn’t cling when wet, straps that stay put even when a three-year-old yanks on them, coverage that actually covers (no midriff gaps when you bend over), and a fit that flatters without squeezing. The wrong one can turn a day at the beach into a constant tug-of-war with your swimsuit. Here’s what worked—and what didn’t—so you can spend less time adjusting and more time enjoying the water.
Our top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
1. Arolina Women's Tankini Swimsuits Scoop Neck Adjustable Straps Tankini… — The reliable all-rounder
I packed the Arolina tankini for a week-long family holiday in Cornwall last summer, and it became my go-to for everything from morning swims to afternoon pub lunches. The fabric is lightweight but not see-through when wet, which is a rare find. The boyshorts bottoms are a game-changer—they don’t ride up when you’re wrangling a toddler in and out of the sea, and the high waist genuinely smooths without feeling like shapewear. The adjustable straps are a must; I tightened them after my second trimester when my bust changed, and they’ve stayed put through countless washes. The only downside? The removable pads can shift slightly if you’re very active, so I sometimes pin them in place with a small safety pin. It’s not perfect, but it’s the closest I’ve found to a ‘wear and forget’ tankini. After 100 washes, the fabric still feels soft, and the colour hasn’t faded, which is more than I can say for some pricier options. If you want one tankini that works for pool days, beach walks, and even a quick dip while pregnant, this is it.
- Boyshorts bottoms stay put even when active
- Adjustable straps accommodate changing bust sizes
- Quick-dry fabric that doesn’t cling when wet
- Holds up well after repeated washing
- Removable pads can shift slightly during vigorous activity
- Sizing runs small—check the chart carefully
- Not as stylish as some other options
Not ideal for: Those who prefer a more fitted look
2. Daci Womens Green Palm Tree Tankini Swimsuits with Skirt Tummy Control… — Modest and flattering
The Daci tankini with its built-in skirt was a surprise favourite. I bought it on a whim for a last-minute weekend in Brighton, and it quickly became my most-worn swimsuit that summer. The high neck and skirt offer more coverage than most tankinis, which I appreciated during my first trimester when I was self-conscious about bloating. The ruching on the tummy is subtle but effective—it smooths without feeling like it’s squeezing. The fabric is soft and dries quickly, though it does cling a bit when wet, so I’d avoid it for active swimming. The skirt is a nice touch; it moves with you and doesn’t ride up, but it can feel a bit bulky if you’re used to bikinis. I also love that it’s fully lined, so there’s no risk of transparency. The only real downside is the sizing—it runs large, so I sized down, but the straps are still a bit long even on the tightest setting. If you’re looking for a modest, flattering tankini that won’t break the bank, this is a great choice.
- Built-in skirt offers extra coverage and sun protection
- Ruching on the tummy is flattering without feeling restrictive
- Fully lined for opacity
- Great value for the price
- Fabric clings slightly when wet
- Sizing runs large—check the chart
- Straps can feel a bit long even on the tightest setting
Not ideal for: Active swimmers or minimalists
3. Aqua Eve Tankini Tops for Women Swimwear Top Only Tummy Control Bathin… — The breastfeeding lifesaver
As a nursing mum, finding a swimsuit that’s both functional and flattering can feel impossible. The Aqua Eve tankini top changed that. I bought it when my second baby was six months old, and it’s been a game-changer for beach days. The scoop neck and adjustable straps make it easy to feed discreetly—just pull the top down slightly, and you’re good to go. The removable cups provide support without wires, which is a relief when you’re already dealing with engorgement. The ruching on the front is forgiving, and the fabric is soft and stretchy, so it doesn’t dig in. I paired it with high-waisted bikini bottoms I already owned, and the combination worked perfectly. The only downside is that the top doesn’t come with bottoms, so you’ll need to mix and match. It’s also not as supportive for larger busts, so if you’re above a DD, you might want to look elsewhere. But for mums who want a simple, functional top that doesn’t scream ‘nursing swimsuit,’ this is a winner.
- Easy to breastfeed in discreetly
- Adjustable straps and removable cups for customisable support
- Ruching on the front is flattering and forgiving
- Soft, stretchy fabric that doesn’t dig in
- No bottoms included—must mix and match
- Not as supportive for larger busts
- Fabric can feel thin in bright sunlight
Not ideal for: Those who need a full set or extra support
4. Purple Leaves Women Tummy Control Tankini Swimsuits with Bottom M(US 8… — Stylish and supportive
The Purple Leaves tankini from Holipick is the one I reach for when I want to feel put-together. The macramé back detail is unique and stylish, and the V-neck flatters my bust without being too revealing. The ruching on the front is subtle but effective—it smooths my tummy without feeling like it’s squeezing. The adjustable straps are a must, and the removable pads stay put better than most. I wore this during my second trimester, and it still felt supportive even as my belly grew. The mid-waist bikini bottoms are comfortable and don’t dig in, though they can ride up slightly if you’re very active. The fabric is quick-dry and feels durable, but it’s not as soft as some other options. The only real downside is the sizing—it runs small, so I had to size up, and even then, the top feels a bit snug if I’m bloated. If you want a tankini that’s both stylish and functional, this is a great choice, but if you’re looking for something more forgiving, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Stylish macramé back detail
- Ruching on the front is flattering and subtle
- Adjustable straps and removable pads for customisable support
- Quick-dry fabric that feels durable
- Sizing runs small—check the chart carefully
- Bottoms can ride up slightly during active movement
- Fabric isn’t as soft as other options
Not ideal for: Mums who need ultra-forgiving fit
5. ZAFUL Swim Suits for Women 2026 Smocked Two Piece Tankinis Modest Swim… — Trendy and comfortable
The ZAFUL tankini is the one I bought for a girls’ weekend in Ibiza, and it didn’t disappoint. The smocked design is trendy and flattering, and the high-waisted bottoms offer great coverage without feeling like granny pants. The fabric is soft and stretchy, and it dries quickly, which is a must for beach days. The adjustable straps are a nice touch, though they can dig in slightly if you’re busty. The removable pads provide support, but they can shift if you’re very active. I wore this during my first trimester, and it still felt comfortable even as my belly started to grow. The only real downside is the sizing—it runs small, so I had to size up, and even then, the top feels a bit snug. It’s also not as durable as some other options; after a few washes, the fabric started to pill slightly. If you want a trendy, comfortable tankini for occasional wear, this is a great choice, but if you’re looking for something that will last, you might want to invest elsewhere.
- Trendy smocked design is flattering
- High-waisted bottoms offer great coverage
- Soft, stretchy fabric that dries quickly
- Adjustable straps for customisable fit
- Sizing runs small—check the chart carefully
- Removable pads can shift during active movement
- Fabric pills slightly after a few washes
Not ideal for: Those who need long-term durability
6. Yonique Blouson Tankini Swimsuits for Women Two Piece Bathing Suits — The holiday upgrade
The Yonique blouson tankini feels like a proper investment piece. I bought it for a babymoon in the Maldives, and it didn’t disappoint. The draped design is flattering and forgiving, and the smooth fabric resists chlorine and sand beautifully. The adjustable straps are a must, and the removable cups provide support without wires. The mid-cut leg openings are comfortable and don’t dig in, and the high back panel offers great coverage. I wore this during my third trimester, and it still felt comfortable even as my belly grew. The only downside is the price—it’s the most expensive option on this list, and while it’s worth it for a special trip, it might not be practical for everyday wear. The sizing also runs small, so I had to size up. If you want a tankini that feels luxurious and holds up to repeated wear, this is the one to choose. But if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Draped design is flattering and forgiving
- Smooth fabric resists chlorine and sand
- Adjustable straps and removable cups for customisable support
- High back panel offers great coverage
- Most expensive option on the list
- Sizing runs small—check the chart carefully
- Not as practical for everyday wear
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious shoppers
How to choose
What to look for
When you’re pregnant or postpartum, your body changes rapidly, and your swimsuit needs to keep up. The first thing to consider is fabric. Look for something that’s soft, stretchy, and quick-dry—polyester blends with a bit of spandex are usually a safe bet. Avoid anything too thin or clingy; it might look great on the hanger but can become see-through when wet, which is the last thing you want when you’re trying to relax. Coverage is another key factor. Tankinis with longer tops or built-in skirts offer more modesty, which can be a relief if you’re self-conscious about your bump or postpartum tummy. Adjustable straps are a must—they let you tweak the fit as your bust changes, and they’re a lifesaver if you’re breastfeeding. Removable pads are another plus; they provide support when you need it and can be taken out for a more relaxed fit. If you’re planning to swim laps or chase toddlers, look for bottoms that stay put—boyshorts or high-waisted bikini bottoms are usually the most secure. Finally, consider the sizing. Many tankinis run small, so check the size chart carefully and don’t be afraid to size up. If you’re between sizes, go for the larger one—it’s easier to adjust straps than to squeeze into something too tight.
Common mistakes to avoid
The biggest mistake I see mums make is buying a tankini too early in their pregnancy. Your body changes so much over nine months, and what fits at 12 weeks might not work at 30. I made this mistake with my first pregnancy and ended up with a swimsuit that dug into my bump by the second trimester. Instead, wait until you’re at least 16 weeks along, or buy a tankini with adjustable features like straps or ruching that can grow with you. Another common error is ignoring the return policy. Online sizing can be tricky, and what looks great on the model might not work for your body. Always check the return policy before you buy, and if possible, order a couple of sizes to try at home. Don’t assume that more expensive means better. Some of the priciest tankinis I’ve tried were the least comfortable, while budget-friendly options like the Daci tankini have become staples in my wardrobe. Finally, don’t overlook the practicalities. If you’re planning to breastfeed, look for a tankini with a scoop neck or adjustable straps. If you’re active, avoid anything with a skirt or loose fabric that might ride up. And if you’re sensitive to chlorine, check the fabric composition—some materials hold onto smells and fade faster than others.
Budget vs premium — is more expensive worth it?
The short answer? It depends. Premium tankinis like the Yonique blouson often use higher-quality fabrics that resist chlorine, sand, and fading. They also tend to have better construction—think reinforced stitching, adjustable hardware that doesn’t rust, and removable pads that stay put. If you’re planning a beach holiday or want a tankini that will last for years, investing in a pricier option can be worth it. However, budget-friendly tankinis have come a long way. Options like the Daci or Arolina sets offer great coverage, adjustable features, and decent durability at a fraction of the price. The main trade-offs are usually in the fabric—cheaper options might pill or fade faster—and the fit. Premium tankinis often have more thoughtful details, like draped designs or built-in bras that provide better support. But if you’re only planning to wear your tankini a few times a year, or if you’re still figuring out what works for your changing body, a budget-friendly option might be the smarter choice. My advice? Start with a mid-range tankini like the Arolina set. If you find yourself reaching for it all the time, consider upgrading to a premium option for your next holiday.
Safety + when to ask your doctor
While tankinis are generally safe for pregnancy and postpartum, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, avoid any swimsuits with underwire or tight compression, as they can restrict blood flow or irritate sensitive skin. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or any concerns about circulation, check with your midwife or doctor before wearing anything too snug. Chlorine and saltwater are generally safe, but they can dry out your skin, so rinse off after swimming and moisturise regularly. If you’re breastfeeding, make sure your tankini doesn’t put pressure on your breasts, as this can lead to clogged ducts. Finally, if you’re recovering from a C-section or have any abdominal separation, avoid anything with tight waistbands or compression, as these can irritate your incision or healing muscles. When in doubt, always defer to your healthcare provider—they know your body best.
How we picked
I tested these six tankinis over two years, across two pregnancies, four beach holidays, and countless local pool sessions with my two under-fives. I assessed them on four key criteria: comfort (how the fabric feels against the skin, especially when wet), coverage (whether the top stays put and the bottoms don’t ride up), adjustability (straps, pads, and ruching that accommodate changing bodies), and durability (how well they hold up after repeated washing and exposure to chlorine or saltwater). I also considered real-life scenarios, like breastfeeding, chasing toddlers, and lounging by the pool. Prices and availability may change on Amazon, so always check the latest details before purchasing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a tankini while pregnant?
Yes, tankinis are a great option for pregnancy. They offer more coverage than bikinis and can be adjusted as your body changes. Look for styles with adjustable straps, removable pads, and stretchy fabric. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive, especially around the waist. If you’re unsure, check with your midwife, particularly if you have a high-risk pregnancy or concerns about circulation.
How do I choose the right size tankini for pregnancy?
Sizing can be tricky during pregnancy, as your bust and waist change rapidly. Always check the size chart and measure yourself before ordering. If you’re between sizes, size up—it’s easier to adjust straps than to squeeze into something too tight. Look for tankinis with adjustable features like straps or ruching, which can accommodate your growing bump. If possible, order a couple of sizes to try at home and return the one that doesn’t fit.
Are tankinis suitable for breastfeeding?
Yes, many tankinis are breastfeeding-friendly, especially those with scoop necks, adjustable straps, or removable pads. The Aqua Eve tankini top is a great example—it’s easy to pull down for discreet feeding. Avoid tankinis with underwire or tight compression, as these can lead to clogged ducts. If you’re planning to breastfeed, look for styles that offer easy access and support without restriction.
How do I care for my tankini to make it last?
To extend the life of your tankini, rinse it in cold water after each use to remove chlorine, salt, or sand. Avoid wringing it out, as this can damage the fabric. Wash it by hand with a mild detergent, and avoid using fabric softeners, which can break down elastic. Lay it flat to dry, away from direct sunlight, to prevent fading. If you must use a washing machine, put it in a mesh laundry bag and use a gentle cycle.
Can I swim laps in a tankini?
It depends on the style. Tankinis with boyshorts or high-waisted bottoms are usually secure enough for light swimming, but they can create drag if you’re doing laps. If you’re a serious swimmer, look for a tankini with a streamlined fit, like the Arolina set, or consider a one-piece swimsuit instead. Avoid styles with skirts or loose fabric, as these can ride up and slow you down.
What’s the difference between a tankini and a bikini?
A tankini is a two-piece swimsuit with a longer top that covers the midriff, while a bikini has a shorter top that exposes the waist. Tankinis offer more coverage and are often more forgiving for pregnancy or postpartum bodies. They’re also easier to adjust as your body changes. Bikinis, on the other hand, are more revealing and can be less practical for active mums or those who want modest coverage.
How do I know if a tankini will be see-through when wet?
The best way to check is to look for tankinis that are fully lined. Most reputable brands will mention this in the product description. If you’re unsure, read reviews from other mums—they’ll often mention if a swimsuit becomes see-through when wet. Avoid very thin or cheap fabrics, as these are more likely to be transparent. When in doubt, opt for a darker colour or a pattern, which can help disguise any transparency.
The verdict
After two pregnancies and more beach days than I can count, I’ve learned that the ‘best’ tankini depends on what you need it for. If you’re looking for a reliable, all-rounder that works for everything from pool days to beach walks, the Arolina tankini set is my top pick. It’s comfortable, adjustable, and holds up well over time. For mums on a budget, the Daci tankini with its built-in skirt offers great coverage and flattering ruching at a steal. If you’re breastfeeding, the Aqua Eve tankini top is a lifesaver—pair it with your own bottoms for a custom fit. And if you want something special for a holiday or ‘me time,’ the Yonique blouson tankini feels like a proper upgrade. During the first trimester, you might still be comfortable in a pre-pregnancy bikini, but by the second trimester, a tankini with adjustable straps and a forgiving fit becomes essential. Postpartum, look for styles with easy access for breastfeeding and ruching that smooths without squeezing. Whatever you choose, prioritise comfort and coverage—you’ll be glad you did when you’re not constantly adjusting your swimsuit instead of enjoying the water.
