Swimwear from French Days

Bra size and underbust measurement: the specialist's system

A swimsuit with underwire is chosen like a bra, using two measurements. The underbust measurement, taken under the bust, gives the size number; the cup, determined by the difference between this measurement and the bust measurement, gives the letter. The British brands Freya, Fantasie and Elomi, which are part of the same group, offer their tops from cup C up to very deep cups, where a classic swimsuit often stops at cup D. The spring French Days come at the right time to find your size before the holidays.

Other lifestyle offers

The French Days lifestyle also include:

• Dresses and Jumpsuits.
• T-shirts and Polos.
• Sneakers.
• Shirts.
• Sweatshirts and Jumpers.
• Trousers and Jeans.

All the offers can be found on the lifestyle page.

Plunging, sweetheart or balconette neckline

The shape of the top affects both support and style. The plunging neckline, with cups cut deeper towards the centre, elongates the torso and exposes the upper chest. The sweetheart neckline, rounded, highlights a generous bust while providing good coverage. The wide strap style, known as balconette, exposes the shoulders and provides support from underneath. The bandeau style, strapless, avoids tan lines but requires strong underwire to stay in place in the water. Pleated designs, like those from Fantasie, add volume and relief to slimmer busts.

Briefs, high-waisted or tankini: cover according to your body shape

The bottom is chosen separately from the top, allowing each piece to fit your body shape. The classic brief exposes the hips, while the mid-rise or high-waisted version, like those from Freya or Fantasie, covers the lower stomach and elongates the leg. The tankini, a long top worn over a separate bottom, covers the stomach while being easy to remove. The one-piece, like the Regatta Baylenne, provides better support during swimming and diving. The sporty two-piece from Protest, a Dutch brand born in the surfing world, stays in place on a surfboard as well as on a paddle.

Rinse, wash, dry: making your swimsuit last

The chlorine from swimming pools, seawater, and sunscreen can damage the elastane that gives the swimsuit its support. The first step is to rinse it with fresh water as soon as you get out, without waiting until you return. It should then be hand washed in cold water with a gentle soap, without rubbing or twisting it to wring it out: press it in a towel instead. Dry it flat and in the shade, as direct sunlight can fade prints. A wet swimsuit left at the bottom of a bag can get damaged and smell: leave it to dry before folding it up.

Frequently asked questions

What swimsuit is best for a large bust?

A top with underwire sold by cup size, with wide adjustable straps, ensures support even while swimming. Elomi caters to larger sizes with wide underbust measurements and deep cups, while Freya offers more fashionable shapes.

What swimsuit is best for a small bust?

A triangle top or a gathered balconette, padded or with light cups, adds volume without any gimmicks. Ruffles, prints, and bows placed on the top draw the eye and balance a wider silhouette around the hips.

Why are swim shorts banned in swimming pools?

Loose shorts can be worn outside of swimming but bring dust and bacteria into the water: public pools therefore require fitted swimwear specifically for swimming. A body-hugging boxer short is generally accepted.

What swimsuit should you choose for a spa treatment?

Opt for a one-piece or a comfortable tankini, resistant to chlorine and hot mineral waters, that can withstand daily baths. It's advisable to have two to alternate, as the swimsuit won’t dry in between treatments.

How can you tell if a bikini top is the right size?

The band should stay horizontal at the back without riding up, and the cups should enclose the bust without spilling over or creasing. The underwire should lie flat against the ribcage, under the bust: if it presses on the breast, the cup is too small.