A model wearing a plus-size orange swim skirt.

Let a Swim Skirt Turn Your Bathing Suit Into a Full-Blown Outfit

Swim skirts are underrated—and it’s probably because they have a bit of an odd reputation. To some, the swim skirt might represent forced modesty or insecurity about one’s thighs when wearing a swimsuit. But it definitely doesn’t have to be this way. When we strip away all the preconceived notions, we’re left with a very cute addition to any swimwear collection. Plus-size swim skirts basically turn your swimsuit into a full-blown outfit—which is a major win in our book.

Of course, swim skirts can be worn for a more modest swimwear look, but it’s not the only feature that makes these an essential part of any poolside ensemble. With swim skirts, you have the option to forego a cover-up—which means your bathing suit becomes your outfit. (!) Whether you go for a tankini or bikini top, paired with a swim skirt, you can’t lose.

Sure, beach pants and kimono cover-ups are great, but when it comes to days at the beach or pool party hopping, you want something with the least amount of hassle. That’s where plus-size swim skirts come in. Because they’re skirts that you can swim in (They do have built-in bottoms, in case you’re new to this swimwear trend.), these pieces function both in and out of the water. Swim skirts are often reminiscent of tennis skirts or skorts, so you have no reason to feel uncomfortable walking around wearing one.

Go for a classic black ruffly swim skirt paired with your favorite bikini top this season. Or, try a swim skirt in a statement-making pattern and add a neutral crop top. Transitioning from the pool to your favorite coffee shop has never been easier. Just throw on a t-shirt and no one will even suspect you’ve been lounging on a float all day. Plus-size swim skirts make warm weather dressing so much easier—and that’s really all we can ask for.

Here at Unruly, we’re committed to featuring plus-size pieces we genuinely love and want to share with you. We’re connected to an affiliate revenue program, which means we might make a small commission when you buy products through our shopping guides. This in no way affects pieces we choose to feature, and it never will. (Confused? We’d love to answer any questions you have about this. Email us at beunrulyinfo@gmail.com!)

1. Kona Sol Swim Skirtini

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $21 from Target


2. Lime Ricki Black Ruffle Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $44.50 from CoEdition


3. Black High-Waist Skater Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $49.50 from Torrid


4. Rust Ruffle Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $33.99 from Lime Ricki


5. Raisins Curve ECHO Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $56 from CoEdition


6. Blossoms Ruffle Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $33.99 from Lime Ricki


7. Sunsets Escape Indigo Island Time Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $66 from CoEdition


8. Aqua Green Ruffle Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $23 from Target


9. Lime Ricki High-Waist Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $57.50 from CoEdition


10. Kona Sol Skirtini

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $21 from Target


11. Raisins Curve COSTA Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $56 from CoEdition


12. Drawstring Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $14.98 from Lane Bryant


13. Raisins Curve BRAVO Swim Skirt

A model wearing a plus-size swim skirt.

shop the look — $50 from CoEdition