The top 10 stores for plus size swimwear in Toronto

Stores for plus size swimwear in Toronto will help every lass get ready to hit the pool or the beach - no matter the number on the tag. With the advent of size-positive fashion, manufacturers have finally realized that today's women are way more likely to reach for a fun print or an adorable bikini than one of those weird miniskirted numbers, and many Toronto stores pride themselves on finding the perfect suit for every shopper - so don't be afraid to dive right in.

Here are my picks for the top stores for plus size swimwear in Toronto.

Tatyana

This Queen West shop devoted to all things rockabilly and retro carries knockout wiggle dresses and pencil skirts from sizes XS to 4X - a range that, mercifully, even extends to their swimwear. All of their Beach Bash suits are available in plus sizes, from '30s-inspired one-pieces to high-waisted bikinis - and, best of all, they all ring in at $80 or less.

Gussied Up

This Bathurst and Dupont plus-size shop carries a healthy smattering of swimsuits ($115-125), including pin-uppy numbers by Esther Williams in about 15 different styles (featuring tons of cute prints, including beach-appropriate pineapples, gingham and lobsters), and a sportier pick from Danish label Junarose. Sizes run up to 24.

Your Big Sister's Closet

Plus-size blogger Karen of Curvy Canadian is behind this Junction store (so you know there's going to be an emphasis on the on-trend and fashion-forward). Commonly-found brands include Elyana and Esther Williams, with an average suit running about $80, and the staff make a point to stock both bikinis and one-pieces (the tyranny of the skirt suit is finally over!)

Melmira

This Yonge and Lawrence lingerie and bathing suit shop is something of a swimwear institution in Toronto, thanks to their ultra-personalized approach to customer service and fitting - they're particularly worth a trip if you're shopping for a larger cup size. Suits start at about $150.

Black Daffodil

This Junction shop encourages shoppers to "indulge their inner dame", stocking plenty of lace and polka dot frocks (with a slightly more grown-up, less-costumey twist). They stock swimwear for all sizes, including a smattering of halter-necked Esther Williams suits in the requisite dots and cherry print ($110) in sizes up to 24, as well as throwback suits from Unique Vintage in sizes up to XX (roughly a 16).

Beachwear Unlimited

This North York swimwear specialist shares a storefront with Legs Plus and Bra Boutique, a favourite of plus-size women seeking quality lingerie. They've got suits in sizes 4 to 26 (and cup sizes A through H), and offer solid selection, plus the knowledgeable service to help you navigate it.

Rosie the Rebel

Another steady local source for all things halter-necked, full-skirted and skull-printed, Bloorcourt's own Rosie the Rebel offers another trove of flirty retro suits (about $95) that run as high as 3X.

Team Aquatic

Maybe you're looking to get some serious laps in instead of just lounging delicately by the poolside with a froofy umbrella drink. This Scarborough store, which deals in competitive swimwear, offers TYR suits in up to a size 26 ($70 and up).

Linea Intima

This lingerie chain's six stores around southwestern Ontario (including four within the GTA) offer swimwear with an eye toward getting a perfect fit around the bust. Brands include Maryan Mehlhorn, Anita, PrimaDonna, and German label Sunflair; sizes, unfortunately, only go up to 18.

Sandpipers

Sandpipers' two swim-focused stores (one in Yorkville, the other at Yonge and Eglinton) stock Gottex and Miraclesuit suits in up to a 22, and a few brands - Karla Coletto, Jets, Seafolly and Sunflair - in sizes 18 and under, so you've got a couple of options. Suits start at about $160 and up.

Did I miss any? Leave your favourite spot for plus-size swimwear in the comments.

Photo via Tatyana

by Natalia Manzocco via blogTO