Stephanie M Decker

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7+ Plus Size Friendly Swimsuit Patterns

*This blog post uses affiliate links.

Hey all! I’m so excited for swim season! Last year I made two different suits that I have yet to actually use and this year I have plans for (hopefully) another 2 or 3 using patterns right here on this list! I had a bit more of an issue finding some swim patterns friendly to larger sizes but I found some of the styles that I actually plan on making up myself that I’ll be sure to let you know about once they’re done! If you don’t see your favorite pattern listed here, make sure you leave a comment and spread the love!

Cottesloe Swimsuit - Megan Nielsen

I’ve been eyeing this pattern for a while now. I love a good high waisted bikini and this Cottesloe pattern from Megan Nielsen is just simple enough to let some of your favorite busier prints have the spotlight! I have plans to make this up before the end of the summer so I’ll be sure to let you know how it goes just as soon as I can!


Evie One Piece - Caramiya

A classic. Caramiya’s first pattern was actually the first time I had even considered experimenting with swimwear! I was fortunate enough to be one of her testers and loved the simple process of making this two-for-one style! There was just one minor tweak I made with my second Evie (I needed to lengthen the torso just a touch) but it’s definitely one of the best recommendations I have for anyone starting in this area for the first time!


Sandpiper Swimsuit - Helen’s Closet Patterns

Yet another great size-friendly pattern from Helen! The Sandpiper accommodates up to a 62” bust AND hip and is another great simple silhouette to let those fabrics shine! Similar to the Cottesloe, this two piece is a great option especially for a bit more coverage with its racer-style top!

Faye Swimsuit - Closet Core Patterns

A brand new basic swim package coming out from Closet Core in their full size range! Take your pick between 3 different views (a one piece and two two piece options) for a timeless silhouette! Which will you make?

Ipswich Swimsuit - Cashmerette Patterns

Take your pick between the one piece and two piece options! This design lends itself perfectly to both a solid-colored seamed design or colorblocking if that’s more your style!

Adult Atlas Swimsuit and Separates - Petite Stitchery and Co.

Looking for a number of different options to pick from? The Atlas swim pack from Petite Stitcher & Co. is a great option to have a number of more modest one and two pieces! Get even more mileage with this pattern by making bodysuits with the one pieces or tops and panties with the two pieces!

Almafi Swimsuit (& Sorrento Cover-Up) - Made for Mermaids
Pick your poison! I love finding patterns that I can make 10,000 different ways and the Almafi definitely doesn’t disappoint. I’m in love with two tie two pieces and even the one piece! This is a great option especially if you’re looking to have fun with colorblocking and make a great statement piece!


Muna & Broad Banksia Bralette/ Banksia Swim Expansion
The Muna & Broad Bralette has a sister! Leila and Jess of Muna & Broad have added a swim expansion to their popular (and supportive) bralette pattern! This expansion turns the bralette into a swimsuit (well, two) with either a “bralette” style two piece or a tankini alternative!


Let’s Hack Away!

Looking for some more options? I’m a huge fan of using a pattern in as many forms as I can so I had to include two more pattern options that, while advertised as other, everyday garments, would translate well to swimwear!

Elysian Bodysuit - Friday Pattern Company

First up is the newest pattern from Friday Pattern Company - the Elysian Bodysuit! Try hacking this option into a sleeveless design for another great version and choose from the two different sleeve lengths to help keep your arms from getting sunburnt!


Tate Crop Top / 5 Minute Panties Pattern- Caramiya

Finally, the Tate Crop Top that just released from Caramiya would be perfect to throw on along with the (free!) 5 Minute Panties Pattern! This reversible top will offer two different top options and you can easily hack the panties into a reversible bottom option to create a 4-in-one swimsuit to keep you covered all year long!