Hey retail rockstars and dropshipping dynamos! Let’s talk about the juicy side of swimwear that’s making waves right now—literally. The plus-size swimwear market isn’t just growing; it’s doing backflips off the high dive. At 66Disco, we’ve been knee-deep in data (and sequins), and here’s the scoop: by 2025, 68% of swimwear dollars will come from sizes 14 and up. If your store isn’t riding this wave, you’re missing the beach party of the decade.
Why Retailers Are Obsessed With Plus-Size Swim
Let’s cut to the chase: money talks, and curves sell. Here’s what’s fueling the frenzy:
The “Finally, It Fits!” Effect
For years, plus-size shoppers got stuck with floral tents or neon nightmares. Now? They want suits that scream “I’m here to slay.” We’ve tracked a 200% spike in searches for terms like “cheeky plus-size bikini” and “supportive tankini with tummy control.” Translation: Confidence is the new black.
Social Media’s Body Positivity Boom
TikTok’s #PlusSizeSwim hashtag has 4.7 billion views. Real people—not models—are posting unedited pics in bold prints and cutouts. Retailers who stock these styles see 3x faster sell-through rates compared to basic black one-pieces.
Vacation Vibes, All Year Round
Post-pandemic “revenge travel” isn’t slowing down. Our data shows plus-size swimwear sales jump 40% in winter months as folks book tropical escapes. Pro tip: Market swimsuits as “holiday prep” starting in October.
Hot Trends Your Customers Will Fight Over
Forget “one style fits all.” The 2025 shopper wants options. Here’s what’s flying off virtual shelves:
• Ruched & Ready
Diagonal ruching isn’t just pretty—it’s genius. These suits smooth curves without squeezing like a sausage casing. Our bestseller? A high-waisted bikini with adjustable side ties (sold 12,000 units in 3 months).
• Retro Glam
High-cut legs? Check. Scoop necks? Double-check. Shoppers are obsessed with 80s-inspired silhouettes. Pair these with gold hoop earrings in your product photos for instant nostalgia points.
• “Swimsuits That Do Stuff”
Think built-in UPF 50 fabric, hidden phone pockets, and removable padding. One dropshipper told us adding “waterproof pocket” to product titles boosted conversions by 22%.
• Prints That Pop (But Not Too Much)
Tiny polka dots = snooze fest. Bold geometric patterns and tropical leaves are king. Bonus: These hide sand stains better than solids.
The Dirty Secret No One Talks About
Here’s the kicker: 47% of plus-size shoppers return swimwear because of fit issues. Ouch. But smart retailers are flipping this into loyalty gold. How?
Size Charts That Don’t Lie
Add video demos showing how to measure hips/chest. One boutique slashed returns by 30% after switching from static charts to TikTok-style tutorials.
Mix-and-Match Magic
Let shoppers buy tops and bottoms separately. Our data shows bundles with 2 tops + 1 bottom outsell pre-matched sets by 60%.
Reviews That Get Real
Encourage customers to post photos. One buyer’s caption—“I’m 5’2”, 250lbs, and this made me feel like a mermaid”—converted 12% of visitors who read it.
Sustainability: Not Just a Buzzword
Eco-friendly swimwear used to mean scratchy recycled fabric. Not anymore. 73% of plus-size swimsuits shoppers say they’ll pay extra for suits made from recycled fishing nets or plant-based materials. But there’s a catch: They won’t sacrifice stretchiness. Our new “OceanBounce” line (made from 82% recycled bottles) outsold regular polyester by 4-to-1 last quarter.
How to Cash In Without Getting Burned
Ready to dive in? Here’s your cheat sheet:
• Stock Up on XL-5X
The sweet spot? 60% of sales come from 2X-3X. But don’t ignore 4X-5X—that segment grew 90% last year.
• Bundle with Cover-Ups
Match swimsuits with sheer kaftans or sarongs. Bundles sell for 25% higher average order values.
• Tap Micro-Influencers
Nano-influencers (10k-50k followers) drive 3x more engagement than celebs for plus-size swim. Offer free suits in exchange for honest reels.
Final Thought
The plus-size swimwear market isn’t a trend—it’s a tsunami. Shoppers are done settling, and retailers who celebrate curves (while nailing fit and fun) will swim in profits. At 66Disco, we’re shipping 10,000+ suits weekly to stores like yours. Want a sneak peek at our 2025 neon metallic collection? Slide into our DMs. Let’s make waves together!
Published by HOLR Magazine.