I tested a case full of new winter sun swimwear and these are the most flattering styles

Why, in 2025, is it still so hard to find a bikini that supports like a bra, or a swimsuit that doesn’t ride up, gape or turn sheer the moment it meets water? With winter sun trips and end-of-year escapes on the horizon, I decided to road-test a suitcase full of the season’s most promising pieces to see which ones actually flatter real bodies.

From high-street heroes to more luxury labels, I tried styles from Triumph, New Look, Bravissimo, Seafolly, Beyond Swim and celeb favourite Away That Day, all to see what really is worth splashing out on for your next holiday…

Away That Day Shop the Cannes bikini from £105

I’ve wanted to try a piece (or two pieces, in this case) from Away That Day since seeing Dua Lipa in a black and white design, and I’m so happy I’ve not been left disappointed.

If you love vintage-inspired glamour, the Cannes top in playful polka dots ticks all the boxes. The London-based sustainable label uses eco-friendly fabrics that feel soft and supportive, hence the slightly elevated pricing, with thoughtful details like double-lined fabric to make wearing the pieces feel comfy and look chic.

This specific design, available in sizes XS–XXL, has adjustable straps and a clasp back that gives a made-to-measure feel. Pair with the matching Fiji Brazilian bottoms (which can be worn high or low and is available in XS-2XL) for a shape that cinches the waist and elongates the legs. My top tip: size up one size for the bottoms– my usual size are a tiny bit snug.

Triumph Shop the Midnight Swim Wired Bikini from £26.60

If you thought this brand was lingerie only, take another look. The Midnight Swim bikini, part of Triumph’s newest collection, has wired edging that shapes and supports the bust, and a lined fabric that means no padding is necessary. The straps are also adjustable, which makes a big difference for comfort. Sizing-wise, for the top, you can shop from A-DD, so the only slight let-down is for those with fuller chests needing an E+. As someone who sits in the D category, though, and wants support but also a bit of lift, it’s my perfect top design.

What I love is how the fabric feels soft but dense and high quality, more like structured activewear than standard swim fabric. I wore the top and the matching Tai bottoms all day and there was no digging in and no discomfort. You can also shop it in my blue colourway, as well as a rust tone or a black.

It’s not a brand I would have thought of for swimwear, but it’s one I’ll be ordering plenty more from.

Seafolly Shop the Beach Picnic Bikini from £70

Seafolly is your place to go if you want social media-trending prints and designs. I struggled to narrow down a choice from the very expansive line-up, but settled on a cute beach picnic print with green gingham and strawberry motifs.

Made from double-lined stretch fabric that holds its shape well, even after swimming, the triangle cups slide for adjustable coverage, and the straps tie securely without loosening. I wore the size 10 (top sizing runs from 6-18) and found the top offered more support than most triangle styles thanks to the quality of the elastic and stitching. You’d expect that from a £70 piece, but sadly it’s not always the case.

Beyond Swim Shop the Midnight Navy bikini from £34.99

I’ve just discovered this brand, and I’m so happy I have. It’s rare to find a label that uses thick and lined, premium-feeling fabrics but also costs the same price as some high street brands. Though there isn’t a huge selection to choose from, this Midnight Navy Underwired Top and matching bottoms proved to be a good pick for me on days when I wanted something a little skimpier to sunbathe in.

Sizing for the tops goes from XS to L, to fit cup sizes A-D, so again, perhaps not one for the fuller-chested of us. For the matching bottoms, the sizing goes from 6-14.

New Look Shop the Cut Out Belted Bandeau Swimsuit for £30.99

This New Look swimsuit is proof that high-street pieces can still deliver on fit and quality. This cutout one-piece is ideal if you prefer a costume, but you also want something a little more on-trend.

Made from supportive jersey and fully lined for opacity, it pulls on easily and fastens at the back with a clasp. The detachable, adjustable halterneck strap adds extra security if needed, while the removable padded inserts let you customise the fit by adding lift and shape when in place or to create more room when removed.

The sash tie belt defines the waist, and the high-cut leg and subtle side cut-outs make it flattering without feeling overexposed. The bum is also fully covered, if you don’t like the more cheeky Brazilian cuts.

Bravissimo Shop the Gingham Paloma Swimsuit for £68

Bravissimo is another lingerie brand that does incredibly good swimwear, especially if you need more support in the chest area. There are dozens of really pretty designs to choose from, but this Paloma swimsuit is a standout– it feels properly engineered, with an option to pick both your band size and cup size (like a bra).

Designed specifically for D–K cups, the built-in underwire and lined cups give lift without flattening, and the straps stay secure even when swimming. The gingham fabric is thick and fully opaque, with a smooth inner lining that prevents it from clinging when wet.