Shopping for the perfect bikini isn’t easy, especially with the media noise around working for that ultimate “beach body”. Now, imagine rummaging through the swimsuit racks and not being able to find anything that fits or that you actually want to wear. In an interview with Teen Vogue, Hunter McGrady, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit plus-size model, reveals the disappointing reality of her own experiences shopping for swimwear.
“As I’d rummage through the racks of swim at retail stores, I’d usually find only a few pieces that are size XL. Still, I’d head to the dressing room to try on pieces that I already know will be disappointing. I’d look in the mirror and the cute little bikini that I’ve always wanted — the one that all my girlfriends wear — is barely covering my nipples, let alone my breasts,” says McGrady. “Every single time, I leave defeated. This is what it feels like to shop for swimwear when you’re plus-size.”
Tired of the few boring swimsuit plus-size options that consist, McGrady decided to channel her frustrations into fashion with a swimsuit collaboration with UK brand, Playful Promises.
“Swimsuit shopping needs its own makeover. Instead of telling women something is wrong with our bodies, we should be encouraging people to wear whatever we want as long as we feel our absolute best. Whether that is a one-piece, a tankini, a high-waisted brief and bikini top, or a little string bikini, wear it. No one should be chastised because of their size,” she says.
Instead of “all-black one pieces that cover you from your neck to your knee”, the body positive Hunter McGrady x Playful Promises Collection includes fun, flirty swimsuit styles available in sizes 38 to 44 C-G and 14 to 20.
From black mesh swimsuits to gold sequin bikinis, here’s a peek at some of our faves from the collection.
The star of this super trendy combo is its full coverage bikini top. For maximum comfort and support, the top features sturdy three-panel construction on the cups, a plastic closure on the back and removable halter straps. Get the look: Black Mesh Insert Bikini Top ($67), Black Mesh High-waisted Bottom ($45)
Nothing says BayBaewatch more than a candy apple-red swimsuit. This one features a super sexy deep-plunge neckline and a subtle lace detail that connects to the adjustable shoulder straps. Get the look: Red Lace Detail Swimsuit ($80)
Inspired by Marilyn Monroe, this bikini combo comes with high-waisted lace-panelled bottoms and a full-coverage top which features underwire for additional support. The top is detailed with a beautiful lace overlay and a satin halter strap. But in case the pin-up girl-look isn’t your thing, you’ll love the high-neck option. The High Neck Lace Panel Bikini Top is adorned with lace embroidery and features a deep-plunge cut-out. All of the tops and bottoms are available in both white and black. Get the look: White Balcony Lace Bikini Top ($67), White High Neck Lace Panel Bikini Top ($53), White Lace Bikini Panelled Bikini Bottom ($45)
Be the hit at any beach party with this flirty, flaming-hot red bikini. Made with a high-shine fabric, this bikini comes with wide off-the-shoulder straps that wrap across the front and matching high-cut bottoms. Get the look: Red Wrap Bikini Top ($67), Red Wrap Bikini Bottom ($45)
Less is more with this simple yet super sexy number. This one-piece swimsuit features a deep-scoop neck, high-rise leg cuts above the hips (giving the effect of longer legs) and an elastic underband for support and comfort. This style is available in both black and khaki. Get the look: High Leg Low Cut Swimsuit ($67)
Channel your inner goddess with this sequin golden bikini. Both the triangle top and cheeky bottoms are detailed with golden-coloured mesh and finished with a sparkly lace overlay. Get the look: Sequin Bikini Top ($58) and Tie Side Brief ($36)
