If a brand has swimwear in its spring/summer collection, chances are it’ll only cater to those up to a D-cup. With DD+ considered a "specialist” section, if you have smaller boobs, you can count yourself as one of the lucky ones who can shop practically anywhere.
But we all know swimwear shopping isn’t that easy, and while every body is completely different, there are of course some styles I would like to highlight as better suited to small busts. As a 32D, I can usually find the equivalent to my size in most swimwear sections, but over the years, I’ve learnt which styles tend to suit my shape more.
Lucy Williams knows a classic triangle bikini top never fails.
Amaka tries out one of this season's key bikini styles: the shell bra.
Look for texture and standout details like those on Emmanuelle's bikini.
The fact is if you need less support, you can opt for skimpier styles that those with larger boobs may not find comfortable to wear. And with triangle, string and cut-out styles being key swimwear trends this season, these are plenty to try out. If, however, you prefer to still have support with underwired or padded styles, I’ve put these in my edit, too. Want to boost your assets? There are so many tricks such as textures, ruffle details and ruching that can help with this.
So keep scrolling to shop the best bikinis for smaller busts. But be quick, as we all know swimwear sells out fast this time of year.
Shop Bikinis for Small Busts
Made from recycled fishing nets, this seersucker bikini is comfy and conscious. The straps are adjustable like a bra, so this always makes it easier to fit different sizes.
I'm a huge fan of the Little Mermaid–style shell bikini tops I keep seeing this year. The underwired design is best if you still like some support from your swimwear.
How fun is this sunny-printed set? The back tie is adjustable, which makes it easier to get the right fit, and the V-neck style is so flattering.
Criss-cross bikinis are everywhere this season, and Faithfull the Brand has plenty. The textured top will also create the illusion of fullness in the triangle style.
If you want to add more fullness to your cups, look for ruffles. This crop-top style will also look so good with high-waist linen trousers for the beach.
Tip: Ruched detailing is an easy way to make smaller chests appear fuller.
The drawstring top makes it easy to add texture and interest to an otherwise plain bikini top. I also love that this affordable style is made from recycled materials.
Halterneck tops, dresses and bikinis are key this season. This tie-back style makes it super easy to adjust the fit.
If you have less to hold up, then you can embrace skinny-strap styles. This sweetheart neckline design will also give extra definition and less coverage.
Barely there bikinis are a 2022 mini-trend, and this sparkly one has gained my attention. With such thin straps, it will only work on those who don't need that much support.
Again, it's all about texture. This Terry set with a bow will flatter smaller chests. You can also take off the straps to wear it as a bandeau.
The one-size-fits-all (read: most) swimwear is universally flattering. No matter your shape or size, the clever shirred fabric from Hunza G swim will move with your body.
I've seen these upside-down bikini tops everywhere, and they always look so good on smaller boobs.
Just as smaller boobs can get away with less-supportive bikinis, they can also opt for styles with more coverage. This one-shoulder iteration with hoop detail is ticking all the boxes.
I love every print this brand has, so naturally, I want this bikini. I would wear it with the straps crossed over at the front, too.
If you prefer a bikini that feels more like a bra, look to a padded, underwired style like this textured Calzedonia number.
Yep, another string bikini. This Missoni style is ticking so many boxes.
The bandeau bikini is back, and it's ideal for smaller chests that need less support.
Aussie swimwear label Monte & Lou is one to know. I can confirm the swimwear fits like a dream, and I'm all for this two-for-one reversible triangle bikini.
It isn't underwired or padded, but this sculpted bikini manages to give a natural lift. It also comes in nine shades, and you can pick from five bottom styles.
We all know Zara outfits usually come up quite small, so this makes the swim ideal for those with a little handful. I'm a huge fan of this mismatched block-colour style.
Next up, the best swimwear you'll find on the high street.