I Own 100 Swimsuits, but I Only Wear These 5 Comfy Styles on Vacation

During the summer months, I live in a swimsuit. Pretty much every day is a WFP (work from pool) or beach day, making it convenient to test out pretty much every swimwear style under the sun—which also happens to be part of my job. From string bikinis to bandeaus tops to monokinis, you name it, I probably have the style in one of my many drawers filled to the brim with bathing suits. 

As you can imagine, trying to decide which swimsuits to pack on vacation can be a bit tricky. However, I have somehow managed to edit my extensive collection down to five styles that fit any vacation situation. 

Gooseberry Intimates So Chic Tank Swimsuit

Celebrities have access to the most expensive swimsuit on the market, but there is a reason Sydney Sweeney, Blake Lively, and Jennifer Lopez all gravitate towards the $99 Gooseberry So Chic one-pieces. The plunging version of the swimmie has amassed a celebrity following that reads like a guest list of an awards show due to its almost magical ability to sculpt and flatter a variety of body types. I prefer the more modest square necked version, which in addition to the high-ish cut front and back, offers a much needed boob boost and support, helping me feel like the sexiest version of myself without feeling too naked. Another reason this swimsuit is a vacation must-have? It doubles as a bodysuit; I often wear it with skirts, jeans, and even sweats. 

Quince Italian One-Piece Cami Swimsuit

I always pack Quince’s Italian One-Piece Cami Swimsuit in my bag when I want to wear something a little more modest. The sleek, Italian-crafted $50 suit (which regularly sells out, FYI) is “the epitome of Italian charm” as one reviewer perfectly put it. As someone who needs a little extra support, I thoroughly appreciate the built-in shelf bra and adjustable thin straps. In fact, the swimmie is another great bodysuit double, giving you more bang for your packing buck. I own it in black (it’s literally the perfect LBS) but also comes in white, red, and navy and sizes XS to XL. 

Bromelia Gabriela String Bikini Top and Bottoms

I’m a sucker for a skimpy string bikini, and L.A.-based Bromelia’s Gabriela top and bottom are currently my go-tos. I am obsessed with the tortoiseshell colorway, which sells out regularly (If they have it in your size, order ASAP!) and get endless compliments on it. The bottoms are incredibly cheeky with a seam running down the back, giving your booty a nice rounded and lifted look. (If you want fuller coverage, I suggest sizing up.) One of the things I like best about the top? The strings make it fully adjustable, so even when your chest shrinks or grows, the top will still fit. Shop it in eight colors and patterns and sizes XS to XL. 

Hanky Panky Balconette Bikini Top and Ruched Bikini Bottoms

Who better to design a swimsuit top that fits like an underwire bra than a lingerie company? When I found out Hanky Panky had taken the plunge into swimwear last year, I was determined to take one for a swim. I opted for the balconette bikini top, an Old Hollywood inspired top I’d imagine both Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor would approve of. The incredibly classy top is double-lined and features an underwire and thick adjustable straps that keep the girls boosted and supported. I selected the ruched high-waisted bottoms, which comes in handy for days when I don’t feel like exposing every inch of my tummy. The top is available in six colors and patterns and sizes XS to XL. 

Andie Maui Top and The Bikini Bottom

If you have any activities planned on your vacation—water slides, hiking, beach volleyball, kayaking, and snorkeling included—but still want to wear a two-piece, Andie Swims’s sports bra inspired Maui Top and The Bikini Bottom should be on your packing list. This top is so incredibly supportive (shoppers with cup sizes up to E and F maintain it offers “max bust control”) and manages to make your boobs look great. Most importantly, it’s comfortable enough to wear all day long. “I legit wear this top always,” one 42DDD shopper wrote, praising it as “the most comfortable top EVER,” confessing, “I even sleep in it and don't even know I have it on.” 

I agree; actually I end up keeping the top on post swim sessions since it looks so great underneath dresses and tanks. The bottoms also offer ample coverage all around, plus stays put compared to some of my skimpier suits, so it’s a great option for more family-oriented situations. The top comes in four color options while the bottoms are available in 19, both in sizes XS to XXXL.