I Finally Gave This Popular Swimwear Brand a Try, and I’m Amazed by the Comfortable, Flattering Fit of My Bikini

Buzz

Photo: Mytour / Reese Herrington

As soon as fall sets in, I begin eagerly anticipating the arrival of summer. The warm weather, outdoor activities in the sunshine, and the promise of countless days spent by the water are what I look forward to most. I've always had this love for the season, and I embrace anything that signals my favorite time of year is near. This passion has kept me on the hunt for amazing swimsuits.

Thanks to my parents, who own a condo on Kiawah Island near Charleston, I've spent considerable time in the Lowcountry and become familiar with many brands from this creative Southern city. One such brand that piqued my interest was Minnow, a Charleston-based name that gained popularity online, particularly with bloggers and influencers who have children (since Minnow offers a unique kids' line for both girls and boys). When I discovered that the brand also has a women’s swimwear line, available in sizes XS to XL, I was curious to give it a try. Fortunately, Minnow generously offered to send me a swimsuit to review.

Minnow

Available for purchase: $178; minnowswim.com.

Minnow offers an extensive selection of one-piece swimsuits, featuring styles with everything from tie-knots and ruffled edges to smocking. They also provide rash guards that can be paired with any Minnow swimsuit or one from your own collection, giving you extra sun protection. While any of these suits would be charming and perfect for the pool, lake, or beach, I lean toward two-piece swimsuits. So, I opted for the Sea Marsh Floral Ruffle Bikini Top and Sea Marsh Floral High-Waisted Bikini Bottom in my usual sizes.

Minnow

Available for purchase: $95; minnowswim.com.

When my items arrived, I was truly impressed by the quality. I’ll admit, I spent years buying swimsuits priced under $50. However, last year I splurged on a couple of more expensive options (over $100), and the quality was significantly better. I hoped for the same from Minnow’s pieces—and I wasn’t disappointed. Both are crafted from 86 percent polyester and 14 percent lycra, resulting in a luxurious, buttery smooth texture. The fabric alone justifies the price, in my opinion. But of course, the fit of the suit is just as crucial.

Minnow

Available for purchase: $80; minnowswim.com.

I actually decided to try on the bottoms first. In my experience, finding high-waisted bottoms that aren't excessively high has been a challenge, so I was delighted to discover that Minnow’s bottoms hit just at my belly button instead of going far above it. This is especially important for me because I'm 5-foot-2 and don’t have a long torso, meaning swimsuit bottoms often fit differently than they do on the taller models. But not this time!

Minnow

Available for purchase: $102; minnowswim.com.

After my success with the bottoms, I added the top, which includes removable cups. As a ruffle enthusiast, I was hoping this piece would fit well, and thanks to the tie in the back that allows for a customized fit, I had no doubts. However, it’s important to note that the straps on this top are not adjustable. While I typically find this an issue with other tops, I’ve had no problems with this one. It fits perfectly.

I’ve now worn my Minnow swimsuit on two separate week-long beach vacations, and it has been my go-to throughout both trips. Whether I’m swimming or just relaxing by the water (I’ve done both!), the suit is so comfortable that I’ve often forgotten I’m even wearing a swimsuit instead of my favorite athleisure. Even after multiple wears, washes, and exposure to chlorine, it still looks brand new.

If you're on the hunt for a new swimsuit or a few, I can’t recommend Minnow highly enough. The suits are crafted from high-quality fabrics, allowing you to wear them for hours while staying comfortable. I’m confident my Minnow suit will last for many years to come. I’m already planning my next purchase, because I’ll happily invest in another flattering Minnow style. If you’re uncertain, consider this your sign to dive in.