9 Functional Outfits To Wear Under A Swimsuit

By Dinushka Breaker Gunasekara Jul 21, 2023

What to wear under a swimsuit can be tricky for some people. Whether you are going to the beach, the pool, or the spa, you might have different preferences and needs for your undergarments. Some people like to wear nothing under their swimsuits, while others like to wear something extra for more comfort, coverage, or style.

However, there are some general guidelines and tips that you can follow to make the best choice for yourself. Here are some functional and practical outfits you can wear under a swimsuit.

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Bike shorts

You can wear these swimwear items over a one-piece swimsuit to provide more coverage and prevent the swimsuit from riding up. They are usually made of quick-drying, stretchy, comfortable, flattering fabric.

They can also add some color and style to your swim look. For example, you can wear bike shorts with a solid-colored swimsuit for a contrast effect or a printed swimsuit for a coordinated effect.

Check out our selection of the best affordable and sustainable bike shorts that don't sacrifice sustainability.

Bikini top or bralette

This type of underwear covers the breasts, and you can wear it under a swimsuit. It can provide more support and shape for your breasts, especially if your swimsuit is strapless or low-cut. It can also add some color or contrast to your swimsuit if you want more variety.

For example, wear a bright bikini top under a black swimsuit or a lace bralette under a floral swimsuit. However, wearing a bikini top or bralette under your swimsuit can also have drawbacks. It can show through your swimsuit or create unwanted lines or bulges. It can also get wet or dirty and cause chafing or infection.

Here are 13 best affordable and sustainable bikinis in 2023.

Boxers

You can wear these underwear items under swimsuits that don't have mesh lining inside. They can provide more support and comfort for your genitals and prevent chafing and irritation.

They can also prevent your swimsuits from falling down or exposing too much. However, make sure that your boxers or compression shorts are not visible through or over your swimsuits.

Here is our selection of the best affordable and sustainable men's underwear brands that ethically craft high-quality, supportive products under high standards.

Swim briefs or jammers

Men can wear swim briefs or jammers under swimsuits with mesh lining. They can provide more support and compression for your muscles and reduce drag in the water. They can also prevent your swim trunks or board shorts from bunching up or restricting your movement.

They are usually worn by professional swimmers or triathletes who need to perform at their best in the water.

Thong

This type of underwear covers the genitals and can be worn under a swimsuit. It can provide more coverage and hygiene for your genitals, especially if your swimsuit is sheer or high-cut. It can also prevent panty lines and wardrobe malfunctions.

For example, you can wear a bikini bottom under a see-through swimsuit or a thong under a cheeky swimsuit.

Bra and panties

You can wear these underwear items under a one piece swimsuit to provide more support or coverage for your breasts or genitals. They can also enhance your shape and appearance, making you feel more confident and comfortable.

However, make sure that your bra or panties are not visible through or over your swimsuit. Also, avoid wearing cotton bras or panties because they can absorb water and chemicals and cause chafing and irritation.

Here is our selection of the best affordable and sustainable bras and bralettes that don't sacrifice sustainability.

Tank top or camisole

This clothing type provides more coverage and comfort for your upper body, especially if your swimsuit is too revealing or tight. It can also keep you warm and cozy in cold water or weather. For example, you can wear a tank top under a halter swimsuit or a camisole under a bandeau swimsuit.

Nonetheless, note that wearing a tank top or camisole under your swimsuit can also have some disadvantages. It can be too bulky or hot, making you look less streamlined in the water. It can also absorb water and weigh you down.

Are you hunting for a tank top or camisole to wear under your swimsuit? Don't sweat! Check out our selection of the best affordable and sustainable tank tops and camisoles.

Nothing!

This is an option that some people prefer for various reasons, such as convenience, hygiene, or personal preference. Wearing nothing under your swimsuit can make you feel freer and more natural in the water. It can also eliminate the need for extra clothing and washing.

However, this option may not suit everyone because it can cause chafing, irritation, or infection in your sensitive areas. It can also expose too much skin and make you uncomfortable or embarrassed.

Swimwear-specific underwear

These are underwear items that are explicitly designed to be worn under swimsuits. They have features such as water-resistant fabric, seamless edges, low-rise waistbands, and minimal coverage. They can provide more comfort and style than regular underwear.

They can also prevent panty lines and wardrobe malfunctions. However, they can be more expensive and more complex to find than regular underwear. Some of the pros of wearing swimwear-specific underwear are:

Happy swimming!

Choosing what to wear under your swimsuit can be a tricky decision. You have to balance various factors such as comfort, style, protection, and hygiene. This article has explored different options, including nothing, boxers, and swimwear-specific underwear.

Each option has pros and cons that you should weigh carefully before choosing. Whether you want more coverage or less, more warmth or more coolness, more convenience or more variety, there is an option that suits your needs. The most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in your swimsuit and enjoy your swimming experience.

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About the Author: Dinushka Breaker Gunasekara

I am a journalist and a computer scientist passionate about all things online security, sustainable fashion, lifestyle, beauty, and food. I plan my weekends on Monday, and my least favorite time of the day is in between meals.