I know swimming season can be hard for many of my trans cuties out there and I wish you all the best with as little dysphoria is possible
i hope this is okay to add, here are some options for swimsuits and some tips!
gc2b sells binders in several nude tones, both long tank-style binders or cropped for ~$35. gc2b is a favorite especially among large-chested folks! their binders are safe to swim in, ONLY if you order one size larger than you would for typical binding, you can contact customer service if you need help with sizing.
outplay sells a few swim binders for around $50, which seem to have somewhat mixed reviews. they look more like typical swimsuits than gc2b, and there are options for high or low compression, but reviews suggest that this brand is best for those who are not large-chested.
underworks sells compression swimwear for $35-$100 with more of a surfer/scuba appearance and is highly rated.
danae is a company based in the netherlands that makes both feminine and masculine swimwear. Prices range from $35-$95.
leolines sells swimsuits made for trans women for $24-$80
easybeaver makes a couple (really cute) swim gaff bottoms for $24 each
swimsuitsforall and fullbeauty sell cute plus size swimsuits and coverups in many different styles and coverage levels
and some additional resources:
- swimsuit tips for trans women
- how to tuck
- how to make makeup waterproof (1, 2)
- binding and packing swimming tips
and a few assorted tips i’ve seen:
- men typically wear swim/board shorts just below the hips/tummy, while women tend to wear them on the hip or at the waist
- dark colors and bright or bold patterns can help to conceal or show off certain areas
- swim skirts are good for concealing bulges
- halter bikini tops with thick straps help to balance out broad shoulders and emphasize the bust
- high-waisted bikini bottoms or bikini skirts emphasize the hips and give a curvier appearance
- if you wear a t-shirt over your swimsuit or binder, white or light-medium colors will show through when wet, dark colors or black will not reveal as much. choose a t-shirt that is not too large so that it is still comfortable to swim in.
- tank shirts are a popular summer style (target has a nice selection imo) that will cover some/most binders and looks good with board shorts. if the neckline is too low and does not cover your binder, you can take in the straps as much as is comfortable (shorter people will find this easier) either by turning the tank inside out and sewing across the top inch or so of the straps, or doing the same with a safety pin.
- do not wear a binder that is not a swim binder swimming!! (with the exception of wearing a gc2b binder one size too large) splashing/wading in the water is okay, but you can hurt your lungs and ribcage if you exercise in a regular binder. a regular binder may also be stretched out or warped if worn swimming.
- stay hydrated! especially if you are binding and out in the sun, you can get dehydrated easily.
- wear sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours or as recommended!