K's Quest for Chic Swimsuits: The Big Girl Edition

I am 23. I am plus sized. I do not hate my body. Revolutionary? No, just honest.

I am not the type that refuses to wear a swimsuit. Let’s get real here. I live in Texas–I spent most evenings last summer in a swimsuit. Pools are the only respite for the relentless heat. However, I do refuse to wear the tents and parachutes that most American retailers want plus-sized women to wear in the pool. They aren’t hip. They aren’t youthful. I shall not be shamed into it. I won’t stand for it. But goodness gracious, are there ANY cute suits available for big girls?

I used to think not, until I started closely following “fatshion” bloggers like Gabi Gregg from Young, Fat and Fabulous, and J. Miranda from Fatshionable.com and realized that there were a myriad of plus size options that are surprisingly chic, courtesy of retailers like Monif C, ASOS Curve, Torrid and even budget friendly Old Navy.

Let’s get our fabulous on this summer and celebrate our bodies with a sexy, sassy swimsuit. These are my top choices!

Okay so Old Navy is not really a hub for all things chic, but they always have solid budget friendly basics that just touch on trendy. Last year I ordered a swimsuit from their plus line and was pleased with the quality. It wasn’t the best swimsuit I’ve ever owned, but it’s a great option if you just need something to get you through the summer. They have a cut for everyone– several tankini choices and lots of one pieces in a variety of styles. Both suits are around 50 dollars. These are my favorites from Old Navy:

Photo: OldNavy.com

For those American’s that have never heard of ASOS, they are an UK online department store that features high-street brands and the latest trends. They have free shipping to the US, so they’re a favorite retailer for me. A little over a year ago they opened a plus size line, and I’ve been a repeat customer ever since. They’ve recently expanded their swimsuit line to include a variety of really cute suits. These are my favorites from the line, the one piece is about 50 dollars and the tankini is about 50 dollars for the set.

Photo: Asos.com

Torrid has a great selection of swimsuits and prints, even though I sometimes find the prints to be a little “highschool-y”. I’m just not a huge fan of prints in swimwear in general, that’s not to say that there aren’t good ones to be found- I’m just profoundly picky. However, these two suits from Torrid caught my eye. I love the ruffles and the fringe. They’re definitely sexy! Both suits are 70 dollars.

Photo: Torrid.com

My last retailer, Monif C. has some of the most beautiful, sexy swimsuits I’ve ever seen made for the plus size market. They even have-gasp!- a bikini. And it is HOT. These swimsuits are not for the feint of heart- or for the budget seeker, as these swimsuits are all around 150 each.