Fearless blog
I created Fearless Swimwear because I couldn't find a brand that genuinely designed for bodies like mine - and bodies like the ones I see every day in my work as a nutritionist.
Postpartum bodies, in particular, are almost completely ignored by mainstream swimwear. The sizing is off, the support is missing, and the messaging is worse: 'bounce back', 'get your body back', 'snap back into shape'.
That's not what most new mums need. What they need is a swimsuit that actually fits, holds them in comfortably, and lets them feel good at the beach with their baby - without having to think about it.
This guide covers everything you need to know about finding the best postpartum swimwear in Australia - what features genuinely matter, what's worth skipping, and what Fearless offers for each need.
Why postpartum bodies need different swimwear
After having a baby, your body changes in ways that standard swimwear simply isn't designed for. Common postpartum changes include:
• A softer or rounder tummy, especially in the first 12 months
• Diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation), which affects around 1 in 2 Australian women after pregnancy - this can make firm compression uncomfortable or even harmful
• A heavier, larger, or fluctuating bust - particularly if you're breastfeeding
• Wider hips or a longer torso than before pregnancy
• C-section scarring that may make low-cut waistbands uncomfortable
• More sensitivity around the midsection and a preference for non-restrictive fabrics
• A strong desire to feel confident at the beach without having to think about your swimsuit all day
The right swimwear acknowledges all of this. It doesn't try to 'fix' your body - it works with it.
What to look for in postpartum swimwear - the features that actually matter
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1. Built-in bra support (not just a shelf bra)
A basic shelf bra often isn't enough postpartum, especially if your bust has increased in size. Look for: adjustable straps that let you customise fit, thicker underband construction, full lining rather than single-layer fabric and underwire-free options that still provide lift. At Fearless, all our one pieces include a structured built-in bra with proper lining - no floppy shelf bra.
2. Gentle tummy compression - not suffocatingThere's an important distinction between supportive compression (which feels held and secure) and tight, restrictive compression (which digs in and causes discomfort). If you have diastasis recti, speak to your women's health physio about what level of compression is appropriate for your recovery. Look for swimwear made from high-quality double-lined fabric that smooths without squeezing.
3. Adjustable fit across sizes
Postpartum bodies change month by month. What fits at 8 weeks postpartum may feel different at 6 months. Look for adjustable straps, tie-back styles and - crucially - mix-and-match sizing. Fearless's Magic Sizing™ lets you choose a different size for your top and bottom in a one piece, which is a genuine game-changer if your bust and hips are now different sizes.
4. Breastfeeding-friendly design
If you're breastfeeding, look for: crossover or wrap-front designs you can pull aside easily, zip-front one pieces, adjustable tie-strap tops that loosen quickly and styles that don't require full removal to feed. Practicality matters enormously when you're at the beach with a baby.
5. Full coverage options
Many women prefer more midsection coverage postpartum - this is personal preference, not obligation. High-waisted bikini bottoms, full-coverage one pieces and long-line styles all provide options without limiting your choices to 'modest' cuts. You should be able to feel covered because you want to be, not because you feel you have to be.
6. Durable, chlorine-resistant fabric
Cheap swimwear loses its shape, stretch and compression quickly - especially in saltwater and chlorinated pools. Look for double-lined, chlorine-resistant fabric that retains its structure. At Fearless, we use premium Italian-sourced fabric specifically chosen for its recovery and longevity.
Best postpartum swimwear styles - one pieces vs bikinis
One pieces for postpartum
One pieces are often the go-to for postpartum swimming because they offer full midsection coverage, built-in support across the whole torso, and a streamlined fit that doesn't shift around. For postpartum bodies specifically, look for:
• Long torso options - pregnancy can lengthen the torso, and a too-short one piece will pull uncomfortably
• Built-in bra with proper support, not just a shelf
• Magic Sizing™ (mix-and-match top and bottom sizing) for proportional fit
• V-necklines that flatter a larger bust
• Tummy panel construction for gentle smoothing
Bikinis for postpartum - yes, really
There is no rule that says you can't wear a bikini postpartum - your body, your choice, always. High-waisted bikini bottoms give great midsection coverage and support, while an adjustable bikini top lets you accommodate a changing bust size. The key is finding a bikini where both pieces actually fit your current body rather than your pre-pregnancy measurements.
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Postpartum swimwear for specific needs
Swimwear after a C-section
C-section scarring typically sits along the bikini line, which means low-rise waistbands can sit directly on or just above the scar - uncomfortable for many women. Look for: high-waisted bottoms that sit well above the scar line, one pieces with smooth, non-restrictive waist construction, and soft fabrics that won't rub or irritate healing skin. Always follow your surgeon's guidance on when it's safe to swim after a C-section.
Swimwear for diastasis recti
Diastasis recti - the separation of the abdominal muscles along the midline - is common after pregnancy and can make tight, compressive swimwear uncomfortable or counterproductive to recovery. If you have diastasis recti, speak with a women's health physiotherapist before choosing heavily compressive styles. Opt for supportive but not overly tight fabrics and avoid styles with firm boning or internal panels that press directly on the midline.
Swimwear for breastfeeding mums
The most practical styles for breastfeeding at the beach include wrap-front bikini tops (pull one side aside), zip-front one pieces, tie-strap styles where the knot can be loosened quickly, and stretchy crop-style tops with room to pull down or aside. Avoid styles with underwire or heavily structured cups that require full removal to feed.
Swimwear for larger busts postpartum
Bust size often increases significantly during and after pregnancy, and especially during breastfeeding. Look for styles with wide adjustable straps, a proper built-in bra (not just lining), adjustable back closures, and higher necklines or scoop cuts that provide more coverage and support. All Fearless one pieces are designed with larger bust support in mind.
Why Fearless Swimwear is designed for postpartum bodies
Fearless Swimwear is an Australian brand founded by nutritionist and body image advocate Lyndi Cohen. Every design decision starts with the question: does this actually work for real bodies, at every life stage?
Here's what makes Fearless different for postpartum women specifically:
• Magic Sizing™ - our signature mix-and-match one piece sizing lets you choose a different size for your top and bottom. If your bust is a 12 and your hips are a 16, you can get both to fit in one swimsuit. No other Australian brand does this.
• Long torso options across most styles - because pregnancy can change your torso length permanently.
• Built-in bra support in every one piece, with proper lining, adjustable straps, and structured cups.
• Premium fabric that retains compression and shape wash after wash.
• A dedicated postpartum collection with styles selected for their specific fit benefits for new mums.
• 4.95-star average rating from real customers - many of whom are new mums who've finally found a swimsuit that fits.
A note on 'getting your body back'
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As a nutritionist and body image advocate, I want to say clearly: your body didn't go anywhere. It grew and delivered a human being. It's doing something extraordinary.
The swimwear industry - and frankly a lot of postpartum content in general - talks about 'bouncing back' as though your current body is a problem to solve. It isn't. Fearless is built on the principle that every body, at every stage, deserves swimwear that fits beautifully and makes you feel confident. Not swimwear that promises to hide what you 'shouldn't' show.
Wear what makes you feel held, supported, and free. That's it.
Frequently asked questions about postpartum swimwear in Australia
What is the best postpartum swimwear brand in Australia?
Fearless Swimwear is one of the top-rated postpartum swimwear brands in Australia, with a 4.95-star average and a dedicated postpartum collection. Key features include Magic Sizing™ (mix-and-match one piece sizing), built-in bra support, long torso options, and premium Italian fabric with lasting compression. Founded by nutritionist Lyndi Cohen, Fearless is designed specifically for real bodies at every life stage.
What type of swimwear is best for new mums?
Most new mums find one piece swimwear easiest postpartum because it provides full midsection support, stays in place while chasing toddlers, and doesn't require coordinating two pieces. Look for styles with built-in bra support, tummy compression, adjustable straps, and long torso options if your torso length has changed. If you're breastfeeding, prioritise styles you can open or pull aside easily.
Can I wear a bikini after having a baby?
Absolutely - wearing a bikini postpartum is entirely your choice. High-waisted bikini bottoms offer more midsection coverage and support if that's what you want, while an adjustable top lets you accommodate a changing bust. The key is finding a bikini that actually fits your current body, which may be different from your pre-pregnancy size.
What swimwear is best for diastasis recti?
If you have diastasis recti, speak with a women's health physiotherapist before choosing heavily compressive swimwear. Generally, supportive but not overly tight fabrics work best - styles that feel 'held' without pressing firmly on the midline. Avoid swimwear with firm internal boning or very stiff compression panels. Fearless's premium fabric provides gentle support without extreme compression.
What swimwear is best after a C-section?
After a C-section, look for high-waisted styles that sit above the scar line rather than directly on it. One pieces with smooth, non-compressive waist construction and soft fabric around the lower abdomen are generally most comfortable. Always follow your surgeon's advice on when it's safe to swim and what level of compression is appropriate during recovery.
What is mix-and-match swimwear sizing and why does it matter postpartum?
Mix-and-match sizing (called Magic Sizing™ at Fearless) lets you choose a different size for the top and bottom of a one piece swimsuit. Postpartum, your bust and hips often change in different proportions - you might need a larger cup size but your hips haven't changed, or vice versa. Without mix-and-match sizing, standard one pieces force you to size up overall, creating a poor fit somewhere. Magic Sizing™ solves this entirely.
Does Fearless Swimwear ship to all of Australia?
Yes - Fearless Swimwear ships Australia-wide with free standard shipping on orders over $220 and offers 14 day returns so you can try styles and exchange sizes without risk.
The bottom line
Finding the best postpartum swimwear in Australia doesn't have to be hard. Look for genuine bust support, gentle compression, adjustable fit, and a brand that's actually designed for bodies that have changed - not one that assumes you're trying to look like you haven't had a baby.
Fearless Swimwear was built for exactly this. Explore our postpartum collection and take the Fit Quiz to find your perfect style.
