Finding swimwear that fits well and feels good can be a challenge, especially when you’re shopping for plus sizes. But with retailers like Yours Clothing offering sizes up to 32 and Ulla Popken covering up to 4XL, there are more options than ever for Irish and European shoppers.

4 related posts

Size range offered by top retailers: 16–32 (Yours Clothing), up to 4XL (Ulla Popken) ·
Common prints featured: Leopard, tropical palm, abstract aztec, floral ·
Price range for sale items: €12–€50 (on clearance, Zizzi Fashion) ·
Number of top organic retailers in Ireland: 5 (Yours Clothing, Ulla Popken, Boohoo, Next, Zizzi)

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
3Timeline signal
4What’s next

The pattern is clear: the plus-size swimwear market in Ireland and Europe is well served by a handful of retailers, each with distinct sizing and features.

Label Value Source
Top Irish retailer Yours Clothing (sizes 16–32) Yours Clothing Ireland
Widest European selection Ulla Popken (sizes 36–56 EU) Ulla Popken (plus-size specialist)
Average price on sale €25–€40 Zizzi Fashion Ireland
Most common cup size supported D–DD (with built-in bra) Next Ireland, Boohoo (UK fast-fashion retailer)
EU size conversion example 0/1X = US 14 = UK/AUS 16 = EU 44 = FR 46 SizeChart.com (sizing resource)
Miraclesuit EU size range EU 46–54 Miraclesuit (size guide publisher)

What is the most flattering plus size swimwear for different body types?

Best cuts for apple shapes

For apple-shaped bodies (carrying weight around the midsection), high-waisted bottoms with tummy-control panels are a strong choice. Yours Clothing Ireland (specialist plus-size retailer) offers a variety of prints such as leopard and floral that can camouflage the midsection while drawing attention upward. Wrap-style one-pieces also create a defined waistline.

The upshot

Bold prints like leopard and floral aren’t just decorative — they break up the visual field, making it harder for the eye to fix on any one area. For apple shapes, this means the torso appears more balanced.

Flattering options for pear shapes

Pear-shaped women (hips wider than shoulders) benefit from A-line skirts, ruffled tops, and printed tops that draw the gaze upward. High-waisted bottoms can also help elongate the legs. Next Ireland (major clothing retailer) stocks high-waisted bikini sets in sizes up to 28 that work well for this body type.

Hourglass-friendly swimwear silhouettes

Hourglass figures (balanced bust and hips with a defined waist) look great in belted one-pieces and wrap-style tankinis. These styles highlight the waist without overemphasizing the bust. Boohoo (UK fast-fashion retailer) offers plus-size tankinis with underwire support that accentuate curves naturally.

The implication: flattering swimwear is less about hiding and more about directing attention. Apple shapes gain from vertical prints, pear shapes from bright tops, and hourglass from waist definition.

Which plus size swimwear has a built-in bra for support?

Built-in bra vs. underwire vs. shelf bra

Built-in bras provide moderate support for D–DD cups, while underwire cups offer firmer lift for larger busts. Shelf bras are lighter and better for A–C cups. Next Ireland and Boohoo both offer built-in bra styles in their plus-size swimwear lines. Ulla Popken (German plus-size brand) sells swimwear with integrated cups that provide shape without underwire.

Top retailers offering built-in bra styles

Built-in bras are a game-changer for women who want support without the hassle of a separate bra. They’re especially useful for one-pieces and tankinis.

— Elomi Lingerie (swimwear brand with plus-size range)

Elomi Lingerie offers a plus-size swimwear line with underwire cups in sizes 32–48 UK (70–110 EU). Miraclesuit also provides a size chart with EU conversions, confirming that built-in bra support is available across multiple brands.

Why this matters

For women with D–DD cups, a built-in bra eliminates the need for a separate bra underneath, cutting down on layers and allowing for a sleeker silhouette. This is not just a comfort upgrade — it’s a practical fix for a common pain point.

The trade-off: underwire offers more lift but can be less comfortable for all-day wear. Built-in cups are gentler but may not provide enough support for sizes above DD. Check each brand’s cup size range before buying.

Where can I buy plus size swimwear in Ireland and Europe?

Irish retailers: Yours Clothing, Dunnes Stores, Zizzi

Yours Clothing offers a dedicated swimwear category with sizes 16–32 and ships across Ireland. Zizzi Fashion Ireland covers sizes 40–64 and often has clearance sections. Dunnes Stores does not currently have a dedicated plus-size swimwear line, but its regular range includes some larger sizes — though availability is inconsistent.

European options: Ulla Popken (Germany), Boohoo (UK)

Ulla Popken ships from Germany and offers free delivery on orders over €50. Their sizes go up to 4XL (EU 56). Boohoo, based in the UK, provides free returns on swimwear for Irish customers and has a wide range of plus-size styles with shorts and sleeves.

Online shipping and returns policies

Very.ie (online department store) also stocks plus-size swimwear and offers free delivery on orders over €50. Intimates For All has a final-sale clearance section, but note that final-sale items cannot be returned.

The catch: while many retailers offer free returns, policies vary. Always check the current return window — some brands, like Zizzi, accept returns within 30 days, while others, like Intimates For All, do not accept returns on clearance.

What plus size swimwear styles are most popular for extra coverage?

Swimwear with shorts for modesty

Boohoo offers plus-size shorts in matching sets, ideal for those who want extra thigh coverage. Next Ireland also stocks high-waisted bottoms with attached shorts in sizes up to 28.

Sleeved swimsuits for sun protection

Next Ireland has sleeved swimsuits in sizes up to 28, providing up to 50+ UPF protection. These are popular among women who want to minimise sun exposure on the arms and shoulders.

Tankinis and high-waisted bikinis

Tankini tops offer versatility — they can be paired with different bottoms and are easier to remove than one-pieces. High-waisted bikinis from Yours Clothing come in a range of prints and provide tummy control without sacrificing the two-piece look.

The pattern: extra coverage doesn’t have to mean boring. The market now offers functional features like sleeves and shorts without skimping on style — a clear win for comfort-conscious shoppers.

How to find plus size swimwear on sale clearance?

Best times to shop clearance

Seasonal sales happen at the end of summer (August–September) and after Christmas. Ulla Popken and Zizzi Fashion Ireland both run clearance events during these periods.

Online outlets: Zizzi Fashion sale section

Zizzi Fashion’s clearance section often offers up to 70% off on previous season styles. Intimates For All also has a final-sale clearance for plus-size swimwear, with prices as low as €12.

Bargain hunting tips for plus size swimwear

  • Sign up for newsletters from Yours Clothing, Ulla Popken, and Zizzi to receive clearance alerts.
  • Check the sale section on Yours Clothing’s swimwear sale page regularly.
  • Use size conversion charts from SizeChart.com to ensure you order the right size on clearance — returns are often not accepted.
Bottom line: Clearance shopping is about timing and knowing your size. Zizzi and Ulla Popken offer the deepest discounts. For Irish shoppers, check Yours Clothing’s sale section first. For European shoppers, Ulla Popken’s seasonal sales are the best bet.

The details of plus-size swimwear — from sizing to support — are often overlooked in marketing but are critical for a good fit. Below is a comparison of key features across top retailers.

Feature Yours Clothing Ulla Popken Next Ireland Boohoo Zizzi Fashion
Size range 16–32 36–56 EU (up to 4XL) up to 28 up to 30 40–64
Built-in bra Yes (some styles) Yes (integrated cups) Yes Yes No
Tummy control Yes (high-waist) Yes (some one-pieces) Yes Limited Yes (tankinis)
Sleeves available No Yes (some styles) Yes Yes No
Shorts available No No Yes Yes No
Free delivery threshold €50 €50 €50 €50 €50
Free returns Yes (30 days) Yes (14 days) Yes (28 days) Yes (28 days) Yes (30 days)
Clearance section Yes Yes (seasonal) Yes Yes Yes (up to 70% off)

Confirmed facts

  • Yours Clothing, Ulla Popken, Boohoo, Next, and Zizzi offer plus size swimwear in Ireland/Europe. Yours Clothing Ireland, Ulla Popken, Boohoo, Next Ireland, Zizzi Fashion Ireland
  • Built-in bra styles are available from Next and Boohoo. Next Ireland, Boohoo
  • Sale clearance items can be found at Zizzi Fashion and Ulla Popken. Zizzi Fashion Ireland, Ulla Popken

What’s unclear

  • Exact sizing accuracy across different brands is not verified by independent fit tests. Elverys (Irish sports retailer) notes sizing guides vary.
  • Which specific prints are most flattering for each body shape is subjective; no universal ranking exists.
  • Return policy variations may change; always check current site terms. Very.ie (online department store) last updated its plus-size page in June 2025.

The research on plus-size swimwear is still surface-level — most retailers offer basic product descriptions without fit or fabric depth. For Irish shoppers, the choice is clear: prioritise built-in bra support from Next or Boohoo, or wait for clearance sales at Zizzi for the best value. For European shoppers, Ulla Popken remains the most comprehensive option, though its size chart (EU 36–56) should be checked against your measurements before ordering.

Additional sources

southernwatch.net, xn--mediank-bxa7n.fi

For those seeking similar options, our guide to plus size swimwear in Ireland covers sales and styles from local retailers.

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Frequently asked questions

Is plus size swimwear true to size?

It varies by brand. Yours Clothing and Zizzi Fashion are generally true to their size charts, but independent fit tests are limited. Always check the retailer’s size guide and measure yourself before ordering. Elverys (Irish sports retailer) advises comparing your measurements to the brand’s chart.

Can I find plus size swimwear with tummy control?

Yes. High-waisted bottoms from Yours Clothing and Next Ireland often feature tummy-control panels. One-piece swimsuits from Miraclesuit also have slimming panels. Miraclesuit (swimwear brand) includes tummy-control features in many styles.

What material is best for plus size swimwear?

Look for swimwear with a high percentage of nylon and spandex (80% nylon, 20% spandex) for stretch and shape retention. Chlorine-resistant fabrics are ideal for frequent swimming. Orca (swimwear brand) recommends polyester blends for durability.

Do any retailers offer free shipping on plus size swimwear to Ireland?

Yes. Yours Clothing, Ulla Popken, Next Ireland, and Boohoo all offer free delivery on orders over €50. Very.ie also has a similar threshold.

How do I care for plus size swimwear to make it last?

Rinse in cold water after each use, avoid wringing, and lay flat to dry. Chlorine and saltwater can degrade elastic fibres. Sans Complexe (swimwear brand) recommends hand washing with mild detergent.

What is the refund policy for plus size swimwear at Yours Clothing?

Yours Clothing accepts returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the item is unworn and tags attached. Swimwear must be tried on over underwear. Check their returns page for current details.

Are there plus size swimwear options for nursing mothers?

Some brands offer nursing-friendly swimwear with front-clasp or drop-down cups. Ulla Popken has a few styles, and Boohoo offers tankinis that can be pulled down for breastfeeding. Always check the product description for nursing features.