Prefer Your Swimsuits With Padding? You'll Love These 9 Pieces — None of Which Are Triangle Tops

By Stephanie Nguyen
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Swimsuits are notoriously tricky to shop for, and even more so when you have certain design requirements you'd like them to fulfill. Since I have a small bust, I like wearing swimsuits that contain padded inserts or soft cups to help add instant structure and shape. While there are plenty of other design features I can rely on to flatter a smaller upper half, including the good old halter triangle silhouette, I prefer more modern designs and just make sure to double-check that they have padding when I'm shopping. Sounds easy enough, right?

I can't tell you how many times I've come across a brand that I love, only to discover that the designs omit padding altogether in favor of just a simple lining. With more and more Insta-popular brands choosing this route, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find interesting designs that I would be comfortable wearing. Fortunately, with a little digging, I found a few standout swim designs that all fit the bill. Whether you're pro-padding because you like the structured shape like I do or because you're not ready to #freethenipple quite yet, ahead are bikini tops and one-pieces you can confidently add to your cart. And the good news is that many of them have inserts that are removable so you can have the option for both!

01
Eberjey Off-the-Shoulder One-Piece

Eberjey Off-the-Shoulder One-Piece

Flirty, feminine, and fun, this off-the-shoulder one-piece ($164) features a retro-inspired cut and print that'll help you channel your best seaside siren on and off the sand — just add shorts!

02
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Byrds of Paradise Metallic Bikini

Byrds of Paradise Metallic Bikini

No need for fun prints or bright colors — a glittery black bikini top ($42) literally dazzles for a cool, entirely unexpected beach look.

03
Kopper & Zink Cutout One-Piece

Kopper & Zink Cutout One-Piece

If you prefer a one-piece but still like showing a little skin, this swimsuit ($240) is designed to look like a bikini, with cutouts to the front and back. It also comes in a white version ($168).

04
Billabong Gingham Bandeau

Billabong Gingham Bandeau

A simple sweetheart bandeau bikini top ($55) will never go out of style since it's easy, effortless, and flattering (especially for us small-chested ladies). This one gets a trendy update with Summer's It print.

05
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Chromat Neon Bikini Top

Chromat Neon Bikini Top

Swimsuits with straight lines and barely-there straps are big this season. This bikini top ($107) contrasts a sleek and minimal design with a poppy neon hue that looks good with a healthy Summer tan.

06
PilyQ Striped One-Piece

PilyQ Striped One-Piece

This one-piece ($143) updates a classic U-neck cut with a strappy back and block stripes for a playfully modern take. You can go muted in the pastel version or bold in the bright one ($143).

07
Red Carter High-Neck Top

Red Carter High-Neck Top

For a slightly sporty spin, a high-neck racer-cut bikini top ($45) offers support and coverage. This one features a knotted lattice for a hint of skin.

08
La Blanca Off-the-Shoulder Swim Top

La Blanca Off-the-Shoulder Swim Top

Want extra versatility? A longline swimsuit top ($75) can double as a crop top beyond the water, especially when it's as easy to wear as this one, with its neutral stripes and clean, off-the-shoulder silhouette.

09
Becca One-Shoulder Bikini Top

Becca One-Shoulder Bikini Top

This bikini top ($46) with a single, asymmetrical strap is sleek and eye-catching in the front, only to reveal a sultry strappy design in the back.