Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Swimwear Online with Confidence

Shopping for swimwear can be a daunting task, even more so when you’re doing it online. Without the luxury of a fitting room, many shoppers worry about sizing, fit, and quality. 

But with a bit of preparation and the right strategy, you can confidently buy swimwear online that fits well, looks great, and makes you feel amazing. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting it right every time.

Know Your Measurements Before You Start

The first and most important step is knowing your exact measurements. Sizing can vary dramatically between brands and countries, so having your own measurements handy will help you find the best fit no matter where you’re shopping.

Use a soft measuring tape to measure:

• Bust – around the fullest part
   

• Underbust – directly under the bust
   

• Waist – at the narrowest point
   

• Hips – around the widest part of your hips and bottom
   

Once you have these figures, compare them against the brand’s size chart to find your ideal size.

Understand Your Body Shape and Style Preferences

Swimwear isn’t one-size-fits-all, and not every style suits every body. That’s why knowing your body shape can make a big difference when shopping online. For example:

• Hourglass figures may suit high-waisted bottoms and supportive tops
   

• Pear-shaped bodies might benefit from eye-catching tops and darker bottoms
   

• Athletic shapes can experiment with cut-outs and bold patterns
   

Understanding what styles work for you will help narrow down choices and avoid returns.

Read Product Descriptions Carefully

Don’t skip the fine print. Product descriptions offer valuable information about fabric, lining, padding, support, and stretch. Look for key details such as:

• Fabric composition (e.g. nylon, spandex)
   

• Padding or underwire in the top
   

• Adjustable straps or removable cups
   

• Fully lined pieces for better coverage
   

These details can give you a better idea of how the swimwear will feel and function when worn.

Check the Size Guide on Every Product Page

Even if you know your general size, different styles—even within the same brand—can fit differently. That’s why it’s important to check the specific size guide on each product page. Some brands also offer fit notes, like “runs small” or “true to size,” which can guide your decision.

If in doubt between two sizes, consider your fabric preferences. If the swimsuit is made from super-stretchy material, you may be fine with the smaller size. If it’s more structured or has underwire, you might want to size up for comfort.

Read Customer Reviews and Photos

Real reviews are gold when buying swimwear online. They can give insight into the true fit, feel, and durability of the product. Look for reviews from customers with similar body shapes to yours. If they’ve included photos, even better—it’ll help you visualise how the swimsuit fits on real people, not just models.

Pay attention to recurring themes in the reviews. If multiple people mention that a style runs small or the fabric fades, take that into account before buying.

Check the Return and Exchange Policy

One of the biggest fears with online swimwear shopping is getting stuck with something that doesn’t fit or flatter. Before you buy, always check the return and exchange policy. Make sure:

• Returns are allowed on swimwear (some stores exclude items with hygiene stickers removed)
   

• You know how long you have to return
   

• You understand if refunds or store credit are issued
   

Knowing this ahead of time will make your shopping experience much less stressful.

Stick With Trusted Retailers or Australian Swimwear Brands

If you’re shopping from within Australia, it’s often a good idea to choose local swimwear brands or trusted online retailers. Not only will you likely receive your items faster, but you’ll also avoid international return headaches and support local businesses.

Well-known Australian swimwear labels often cater specifically to our climate, trends, and sizing needs, which makes shopping more reliable and tailored to local preferences.

Take Advantage of Virtual Fit Tools

Many online swimwear stores now offer virtual fitting rooms or size recommendation tools. These features use your inputted measurements and preferences to suggest the best size for each specific product. While not perfect, they can reduce the guesswork and boost your confidence when buying online.

Don’t Be Afraid to Mix and Match

One of the best parts of online swimwear shopping is the variety. Many retailers allow you to buy tops and bottoms separately, so you can mix sizes, colours, and styles to create your perfect set. This is especially helpful for women who are different sizes on the top and bottom.

Final Thoughts

Buying swimwear online doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can shop with confidence and find pieces that flatter your figure, suit your style, and make you feel summer-ready. Remember, the key is knowing your body, reading the fine print, and choosing brands and stores you trust. Happy swimming!