I remember that when we did our first roundup of curvy swimsuit patterns for Curvy Swimsuit Month in 2016, the whole CSC staff had to brainstorm to try to come up with a decent list of patterns…and given the lack of plus size options, we really had to stretch the definition of what a “curve friendly” swimsuit was, given how few swimsuit patterns went above typical women’s sizes.
However, as the state of indie sewing patterns has been becoming more inclusive, the number of curvy swimsuit options is growing. We did a refresh on the list last year, and we’re doing another one this year for the #CurvyYearOfSewing challenge. More and more swimsuit patterns are acknowledging that many women’s measurements go above the mid-40″s and that a lot of women’s busts are actually larger than a B-cup. In this post, we’ll do a roundup of some of the curve-friendly swimsuit patterns that have been released either in the last year or so or that we were unaware of in our previous swimsuit pattern roundups.
5 out of 4 Patterns – Rosanna swim tank and dress
We know that our CSC readers love peplum tankini tops and flirty swim dresses, and the Rosanna from 5 out of 4 Patterns offers both of those options in their available views. To make the pattern particularly curve friendly, the Rosanna also has princess seams and includes a “full bust” pattern piece with a 1″ FBA already done and an optional built-in bra.
5 out of 4 Patterns – Rosanna swim tank, tankini, and dress
The new-ish Ipswich swimsuit pattern from Cashmerette embodies the renowned Cashmerette boob-friendliness by including bust support (including the option of a built-in swim bra) for cup sizes up to a H-cup. The Ipswich includes views for both a one-piece and two-piece swimsuit, and the panels and waistband provide a lot of design options for your creativity.
George & Ginger – Daybreak rash guard
Indie mainstay Jalie has had a rash guard pattern out for a few years, but in general, you don’t see a lot of sewing patterns for rash guards. George & Ginger’s Daybreak is a unique offering in that it offers several different sleeve options and can even be worn as a tankini top, if you’re so inclined. There’s also options for different lengths, depending on your coverage preference.
Greenstyle Creations – North Shore swimsuit
Known for their size-inclusive activewear patterns, Greenstyle Creations recently released the North Shore swimsuit, a swimsuit pattern with numerous top and bottom options, including a one-piece with cutouts and dozens of combinations for bikinis.
Greenstyle Creations – North Shore swimsuit
If you’re looking for a subtly sexy swimsuit with inclusive sizing for a large bust, the Lea swimsuit from Laela Jeyne could be a good option for you. The Lea has bust sizes up to an E-cup (56″ / 142.24 cm) full bust and includes an option for a lace or sheer bust panel to help keep the “girls” contained in your suit.
Laela Jeyne – Lea swimsuit
Longtime indie fav and activewear sewing experts Jalie released a new pattern collection recently, which included a new one-piece swimsuit. Jalie is beloved for its inclusive sizing, which ranges from toddler sizes well into women’s sizes (up to a 50″ / 127 cm bust). The Diane doesn’t include separate cup sizing but it does include the option for a built-in swim bra for additional support.
Jalie – Diane tank swimsuit
Peek-a-boo patterns – Bahama Mama surf suit
While our general attitude at the CSC is to celebrate your curves, we also know that a lot of our readers prefer a more modest swimsuit, for any variety of reasons–whether having to do with confidence or wanting to avoid sun exposure. For those who would prefer the option of more coverage, the Bahama Mama from Peek-a-boo offers both a traditional rashguard pattern and a rashguard/one-piece hybrid. There’s even a skirt option, for those who prefer more of a “swim dress” look. Even better, this pattern fits up to a 50″ (127cm) bust and includes the option to add foam swim cups.
Peek-a-boo Patterns – Bahama Mama surfsuit
Rad Patterns – First Crush swimsuit
The First Crush swimsuit from Rad Patterns has two popular design elements among CSC readers–side ruching and a cross-over bodice. With its very inclusive sizing, the First Crush also includes tons of different options for one-piece and two piece suits with varying leg cuts, skirts, and waist placement.
Rad Patterns – First Crush swimsuit
The cute vintage-inspired Super Suit from Rad Patterns is a favorite swim pattern in the CSC Facebook group, and it’s easy to see why. The Super Suit has a TON of options for both one-piece and two-piece suits, a full bust option, and sizing up to 65″ (165 cm) full bust.
Rad Patterns – Super Suit
I really like the Lea suit! I have been making a similar one by Kwik Sew, with body ruching, and love it, but no matter what, I can’t quite get enough coverage in the center of my bust. Lace would be awesome. Though–I do actually swim in my swimsuits, both pool and beach, so I wonder about the durability of the lace.
I have not heard the term ‘rash guard’ before. Would you mind explaining what it is, please? Many thanks, Jan
A rash guard is a swim shirt designed to keep you warm in cold water and prevent bruises and burns while swimming.
It’s a garment that is more common outside the US. It’s basically a shirt, often long sleeved and with high neck, to wear in or around the water. It protects from sunburn without sunscreen. I think it was originally used for warm-water surfing, sailing, and other watersports.
Thank you for such a comprehensive roundup:) ‘Rashies’ are very much in favour over here in Australia (especially for babies/children) as our sun in summer is so hot and people get sunburnt so so easily – 10 mins exposure without protection is enough to burn the skin! In the northern states, sunburn can occur all year round! Sam the Aussie