FAQ

SIZING & FIT

What measurements do I need to order?

For bottoms, I ask for three measurements: waist, high hip, and low hip. Waist is the narrowest part of your torso. Most swimsuit styles don't actually sit at the natural waist, but this measurement helps me understand your body proportions, especially when you're between sizes. High hip is measured across the hip bones, roughly 2 to 3 inches below the belly button. This is where the top edge of a low-rise swimsuit typically sits. Low hip is measured around the fullest part of your butt. Both the high hip and low hip are important because everyone carries weight differently. Knowing both measurements helps me get the proportions right.

For tops, I ask for your bust (measured around the fullest part of your chest) and underbust (measured just below the breasts). Bra size is also helpful context, and whether your breasts are natural or augmented, since that affects the support level you'll need. The more you can tell me about your body and what you're looking for, the better I can help. It also helps to share your height, weight, and what sizes you typically wear in other brands. If you give me the brand name and your size, I can look up their measurements for reference.

For one piece swimsuits, all of the above, plus torso length. 

I'm between sizes. Which should I choose?

For bottoms: if you plan to be active (swimming, surfing), I'd recommend sizing down for a more secure fit. If you have sensory sensitivities or prefer a looser feel and plan to mostly lounge or lay out, sizing up can work just fine. All fabrics have up to 75% stretch, so there's some flexibility.

For tops: since the band and straps are adjustable (most straps can also be trimmed shorter if needed), sizing for tops is really about how much fabric coverage you want in front. A larger size means more fabric coverage, a smaller size means less. Even someone with a larger bust might prefer less fabric if they want to show more cleavage. It really comes down to personal preference. When in doubt, feel free to message me with your measurements and I'll give you a specific recommendation.

Do your suits run true to size?

Generally yes. I don't consistently hear that things run large or small across the board. A couple of exceptions: the Lucy Top tends to run a little large, and the Zoe Bottom tends to run a little small, so keep that in mind when ordering those styles specifically.

Because sizing is based on your body measurements rather than standard clothing sizes, I always recommend going by the size chart rather than your usual size in other brands.

I wear a size [X] in another brand. What size would I be in yours?

Sizing varies a lot from brand to brand, so I always recommend going by measurements rather than brand size. That said, if you tell me the brand and your size in it, I can look up their size chart and use that as a reference point. Just include your height and weight too, and ideally your actual measurements if you have them. The more context you give me, the more accurate I can be.

I have a short torso. Will high-waisted bottoms suit me?

High-waisted styles will make a short torso appear even shorter, so it really depends on the look you're going for. If you want to visually elongate your torso, a lower-rise style with a V-cut front works well. Both of those details create a longer, leaner appearance. A higher leg cut will also make your legs look longer. 

My bottoms fit well in front but are too loose in the back. What should I do?

If the front fits but there's excess fabric in the back, it's likely a proportions issue, and the suit needs to be made with less fabric in the back specifically for your shape. If you ordered a non-customizable style, you can return it for a refund and then place a custom order. A custom suit made to your exact measurements will fit much better in this case.

I have love handles. Will the sides dig in?

I design specifically with this in mind. I don't use elastic in my suits, and I cut the sides wide. Wider sides distribute pressure over a larger surface area, which means no pinching or digging. For extra flexibility, the Nala and Zoe styles have adjustable sides that you can make tighter or looser as needed. Getting your high hip measurement right is especially important here.

Can you recreate a swimsuit I already own?

Not exactly. To truly replicate a suit, I'd need the same fabric and the same sewing pattern. Just looking at a photo or having the measurements isn't enough to guarantee the same fit. What I can do is use your photos and descriptions as inspiration and get as close as possible to the style and fit you're looking for.

Can I send you underwear I love so you can match the fit?

While it can be used for inspiration and to understand the cut you prefer, I wouldn't be able to guarantee the fit will match. Underwear and swimwear are made from different fabrics that stretch differently and serve different purposes. Underwear is typically a single layer of cotton or a lightweight knit, not designed to get wet. My suits are two layers of four-way stretch swimwear fabric, so even if I followed the same shape, the way it sits on the body would be different. A photo gives me a good idea of the style you like, and that's genuinely helpful.

Do these fit like seamless laser cut underwear ?

In some ways, yes. The concept is similar: no digging, the fabric follows the curves of your body without pinching. But the construction is different. Seamless underwear is laser-cut from a single layer of fabric and designed to be worn dry (less support). My suits are made with two layers of four-way stretch swimwear fabric, built to get wet and hold up in the water. The feel is similar, but it's not identical.

COVERAGE

Can I get more coverage in the front?

Yes. I can make the front panel slightly wider than standard. If you have a specific coverage need, I recommend reaching out, so we can discuss exactly what you're looking for before ordering the customizable version of the style you like and noting your request.

Can I get a straighter cut in the front instead of a V?

Yes, this is a common request. Styles like the Ivy and Leah have a more pronounced V-cut in the front, which is flattering but sits lower. If you'd prefer less of a V (to cover a C-section scar, stretch marks, or just prefer more belly coverage), you can order the customizable version and request it. I can raise the V to make it less prominent or cut it as more of a straight line. I usually recommend a slight curve rather than completely straight, but we can work out exactly what you want. Note that if I raise the front significantly, it may also affect the back slightly.

I want to cover my C-section scar or stretch marks. What do you recommend?

For reliable coverage, I'd go with the Kai, Nala, or Bea. All are high-rise and designed to sit at the belly button. The Isla and Aya are mid-rise and will cover most scars, though if you have a very long torso they may not sit quite high enough. The Leah is low-rise and might cover a scar if it's very low and you have a short torso, but I wouldn't count on it. The Ivy and Zoe are very low rise and are not the right choice for this unless you order a customizable version and request a higher rise.

Which bottom has the most coverage? Which is the cheekiest?

The Isla has the most back coverage of all my styles. It's what I'd call moderate coverage. It still has ruching in the back for a flattering shape, but it's the most modest option. After that, Kai, Nala, and Bea are cheeky but still tasteful and well-covered. Leah is cheeky and one of my most popular styles. On the minimal end, Ivy, Zoe, and Aya are extra cheeky, closer to a thong in terms of coverage.

What's the difference between cheeky and extra cheeky?

The best way to see the difference is to compare the photos on the product pages. Cheeky (like the Leah, Kai, or Bea) offers a balance: flattering and a little revealing without being too much. Extra cheeky styles like the Ivy are much closer to a thong and offer very minimal back coverage. 

Is the white fabric see-through?

All of my suits are made with two layers of fabric. For white and very light colors, I add a third layer in the front specifically to prevent sheerness, so you don't need to worry about that. One thing to keep in mind for reversible suits: if you're pairing white with another color, I recommend only pairing it with other light colors or light prints. When the suit gets wet, a darker color on the reverse side can show through the white fabric.

Can you make a less cheeky or more cheeky version of a style?

Yes to both. Order the customizable version of the style you're interested in and include your request in the notes. You'll see what customizations are listed. If what you're looking for isn't there, feel free to message me first to confirm I can do it before placing the order.

Can the crotch area be made narrower or wider?

Yes, with a custom order. The crotch width on a standard suit is proportional to the size. An XS will naturally be narrower than an XL. If you have a specific need, you can request that in a customizable order. My suits do tend to run slightly wider in that area than most commercial swimwear, which many customers appreciate.

Will my nipples show through the top?

My tops are made with two layers of the same swimwear fabric, which gives them good coverage and durability. That said, two layers of stretch fabric isn't the same as a padded cup, so I can't guarantee full concealment. It depends on your body, the temperature, and whether the suit is wet. If this is a concern for you, reach out and we can figure out the best option.

RISE

Can I get a different rise than what's shown?

If you're ordering a non-customizable style, the rise will be as shown in the photos, though keep in mind it may sit higher or lower on you than on the model depending on your torso length. If you want a specific rise, order the customizable version and note your preference. 

What's the rise on each style?

High rise (sits at the belly button): Kai, Bea, Nala

Mid rise (sits about 2 to 3 inches below the belly button): Isla, Aya

Low rise (sits about 3 to 4 inches below the belly button): Leah

Extra low rise (sits about 4 to 5 inches below the belly button): Ivy, Zoe

Keep in mind that the suit may sit higher or lower on you than on the model depending on your torso length, your body shape and proportions. These are approximate guidelines, not fixed measurements.

Can the Leah be pulled up to sit higher?

You can pull the sides up higher on your hips, but the center front (the V shape) will stay at the same point. Pulling it up will just make the V look more pronounced, not higher in the middle. If you want the center front to sit higher, a customizable order is the right move.

I want it to sit just below my belly button. Is that possible?

Yes. Order the customizable version and give me the measurement from your crotch (where the front and back of the suit meet) up to where you'd like the waistband to sit. That gives me an exact number to work with.

I want it to cover my belly button. What do you recommend?

If you have a shorter torso, the Kai or Nala should cover it. If you want to be absolutely sure, I'd recommend ordering a customizable version and requesting the rise to be an inch or two higher than standard. That way there's no guessing involved.

Can the leg cut be adjusted higher or lower?

Yes, with a custom order. A higher leg cut makes your legs appear longer; a lower cut gives more thigh coverage but can make legs look shorter. Keep in mind that the leg cut in front and back are connected. If you go higher in front, the back will also be a little higher, which means less coverage. The Bea is my highest-cut leg style if you want a reference point. If you want something different, order customizable and let me know what you're going for.

What's the difference between the Kai and the Isla in terms of rise?

The Kai is high-rise and has a straight line across the top front. The Isla is mid-rise and has a curved top edge. They're also constructed differently. The Isla has ruching/scrunch in the back, while the Kai has a middle seam. Both are flattering in different ways, and the right choice depends on how much rise you want and which shaping style you prefer.

FABRIC & COLORS

What is the fabric made of?

Solid colors are typically a nylon-spandex blend with up to 75% stretch. Printed fabrics are usually a polyester blend because prints are made through sublimation printing, which requires polyester fabric. Both feel very similar to wear and are four-way stretch. All suits are made with two layers of fabric, and three layers for white and very light colors.

I'm allergic to latex. Is there elastic in these suits?

Most of my suits are made with no elastic at all. A few exceptions: scrunch-style bottoms (like the Isla and Aya) use a small amount of elastic to create the ruching detail, and a few tops include elastic in select seams. In all cases, any elastic that exists is tucked between the two layers of fabric and never touches your skin directly. If you have a specific sensitivity, feel free to message me and I can confirm the construction of the exact style you're considering.

Are some fabrics matte and some shiny?

Most of my fabrics are matte. That's what the majority of my customers prefer and it's my default. I do have a few shimmer and wet-look options available. In my fabric catalog on the website, shimmer fabrics are labeled as such. If a fabric isn't marked as shimmer, it's matte.

Some colors look different in fabric catalog than in model photos. Why?

Colors can be tricky to capture accurately in photos. Lighting conditions, camera settings, screen calibration can all affect how a color appears. Some colors are especially hard to photograph (greens and blues). If you're unsure about a color, just ask and I'll send additional photos in different lighting. If you need an exact match to something you already own, I'd recommend ordering a fabric swatch first, since custom orders can't be returned.

Can I order a fabric swatch before committing?

Yes, and I highly recommend it if you're trying to match something you already own or if you're unsure about a color or how two colors will look together for a reversible suit. Since custom orders aren't returnable, it's worth taking that step first.

What colors and prints do you have available?

Everything currently available is in the fabric catalog on my website. If you're looking for something specific and don't see it, message me. There are many colors/prints I can source on request. Any color or print not already listed in a standard listing would need to be ordered through a customizable listing.

Will a top and bottom ordered at different times match in color?

Not necessarily. Even with the same color name, fabric batches from the manufacturer can vary slightly. One run might be a touch lighter or darker than another. If you're ordering a matching set, I'd strongly recommend ordering both pieces at the same time. If you do that, I'll make sure they come from the same fabric batch.

CARE

How do I wash my swimsuit?

Hand wash in cold water and lay flat to dry is ideal. If you use a washing machine, use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water and keep it separate from heavier items. Avoid the dryer.

Can I put it in the dryer?

I'd avoid it. The suit won't shrink, but heat degrades the stretch in the fabric over time, so it won't hold its shape as well. Lay flat to dry and your suit will last much longer.

Do the suits hold up over time?

Yes. With proper care, they last a long time. I haven't noticed significant fading, and I have customers who have been wearing the same suits for years. How long they last really comes down to how they're washed and cared for.

CUSTOMIZATION

Are these made to order or premade?

I offer all three: premade ready-to-ship pieces, made-to-order in standard cuts and sizes, and customizable options. During slower seasons, I pre-make popular styles and sizes so they're ready to ship quickly. During busy season, most orders are made after you order. Customizable orders always require additional time to discuss and produce.

How do I order a customized version?

Find the listing that says "Customizable" for the style you want. From there, you'll see what can be customized (things like size, color, rise, coverage, and reversible options). Fill in your preferences and measurements in the notes. If what you're looking for isn't listed as an option, message me first to confirm I can do it before placing the order. I'd also encourage you not to customize too many features at once. The more changes made to a design, the harder it is to predict how the fit will be affected, and customized orders can't be returned.

If something isn't listed as a customization option, can I still request it?

Yes, but please message me first to confirm before placing the order. If something isn't listed, it may be because it doesn't produce the best result, or it just might not be something I've added to the listing yet. Either way, I'd rather confirm it's doable before you order.

Can bottoms and tops be made reversible?

Yes, most styles can be made reversible. Just order the customizable version and choose two fabric options. A few things to keep in mind: straps can only be made in one color, so choose a strap color that looks good with both sides. I'd recommend pairing a solid with a print rather than two prints, since two prints together tends to look overwhelming. And if you're pairing white with another color, stick to light colors. A dark reverse fabric can show through white when the suit is wet.

Can I add a scrunch to a style that doesn't have it?

No, and this is one of the most common customization requests I have to decline. Scrunch/ruching and the middle seam are two completely different constructions. Scrunch uses gathered fabric to create lift; the middle seam is cut to follow the body's natural curve. They can't be combined because they're built differently from the start. If you love the scrunch look, the Isla and Aya are your styles. If you prefer the middle seam, that's the Kai, Nala, Leah, Bea, Ivy, or Zoe.

Can you repair a suit I didn't buy from you?

No. If I didn't make it, I don't know how it's constructed, so I can't guarantee I'd repair it correctly. For suits I did make, I can do simple repairs or resize them smaller.

Can I change my order after placing it?

If I haven't made or shipped it yet, you can message me to add details or clarify your request. If you need to change to a completely different style, message me and I'll cancel the order so you can place a new one. If it's already been made and shipped, you'll need to wait until it arrives and then go through the return process and place a new order separately.

TOPS & SUPPORT

I have a larger bust. Which top will give me the most support?

I recommend the styles Lucy or Gia for larger busts. My tops don't have underwire or structured cups. Support comes from fit and coverage. For more support, look for styles with wider front panels, wider underbust bands, wider straps, and crisscross back ties (which distribute weight across both shoulders rather than pulling from the neck). All straps are adjustable, and if they're too long, they can be trimmed and re-knotted.

Do the tops come with built-in cups or padding?

No, my tops don't include built-in cups or padding. They're made without underwire or rigid structure. The fit and fabric do the work. If padding is important to you, feel free to reach out and we can discuss whether it's something that can be worked into the specific style you're interested in.

I have a smaller bust. Which top styles work best?

The square neck, ruffle top, and the Lou top all look great on a smaller bust. The Lou can be tied around the neck and around the waist, giving it a lot of versatility. Triangle and tie styles also work well. Smaller busts have more flexibility with top styles in general.

I have breast lift scars. Can you make a top that won't show them?

Yes. I've worked with a number of customers on this. The best approach depends on exactly where your scars are. If you can describe their position, I can suggest the most appropriate style and adjust the neckline or coverage accordingly. Order the customizable version and message me first so we can work out the details.

Can I get thicker straps for more support?

Yes. Order the customizable version and request thicker straps. All straps are adjustable, and every top closes with ties rather than hardware, so you can tighten everything exactly how you need it. I intentionally design it this way so you're not dependent on a clasp or hook that only has one setting.

Can tops be made strapless?

I don't recommend it. Without straps and without underwire, there's nothing to keep a strapless top in place. I don't use elastic in my designs, so a completely strapless style isn't something I offer.

I keep getting side boob or spillage. What do you recommend?

Sizing up is usually the solution. A larger size gives you more fabric in front and more coverage on the sides. 

PRICING

Are tops and bottoms sold separately?

Yes. Tops and bottoms are separate listings and priced separately, which means you can mix and match freely.

Do customized orders cost more?

Yes. Customizable listings are priced higher to account for the additional time and communication involved. Discussing what you need, adjusting the design, and making something specifically for your body takes significantly?

Occasionally, yes.The best place to find deals is through my email list. That's where I share discounts and special offers first.

My coupon code isn't working. What should I do?

It's most likely expired. Coupon codes have expiration dates, so if it's not going through, that's usually why. Feel free to reach out and I can check if there's anything currently available.

SHIPPING

How long does it take to make and ship my order?

It depends on the time of year and how many orders I have. During the busy season (summer), it can take longer. During slower months, I sometimes have popular styles pre-made and ready to ship. The current processing time is shown on each listing. If you have a specific deadline, message me with your date and I'll let you know honestly what's possible.

How long does shipping take once it's shipped?

Within the US: standard shipping typically takes 4 to 5 days. Priority shipping is 2 to 3 days. International shipping varies by country but generally takes 2 to 3 weeks.

I have a trip coming up. Will my order arrive in time?

Message me with your date and I'll tell you honestly what I can do. I'd rather be upfront about it than have you order and be disappointed. If you need it sooner, adding a shipping upgrade at checkout helps on the delivery end, and I can sometimes speed up processing too. Just ask.

Do you offer expedited or priority shipping?

Yes. You can select a shipping upgrade at checkout. Priority mail delivers in 2 to 3 business days within the US once shipped. Overnight shipping is available but can be expensive (sometimes $45 to $100 or more), and keep in mind I still need time to make the suit, so overnight shipping doesn't mean it ships the same day. Message me if you need something very fast and we'll figure out what's realistic.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, if you order from my website seamlessbikinis.com. My Etsy shop ships to US and Canada only. International orders typically take 2 to 3 weeks, though it varies by country. Please note that international orders are not eligible for returns.

My tracking hasn't updated. What should I do?

Reach out and I'll look into it. USPS doesn't always update tracking in real time, so a gap in scans doesn't always mean something is wrong. But there's also a chance the package is lost, and I'll help figure out what's going on and sort it out from there.

My package says delivered but I didn't receive it. What should I do?

First, check around your property and with neighbors or building management. Packages are sometimes left in unexpected spots or accepted by someone else. If it's still missing, reach out to me and I'll do everything I can to help. You can also file a missing mail claim directly with USPS.

Can you combine shipping if I place two orders?

Yes. Shipping is free, so you won't be charged twice, but I can absolutely ship both orders together. Just message me and let me know.

RETURNS & EXCHANGES

Do you accept returns?

Yes, for non-customized full retail priced items purchased within the USA within 30 days of delivery. International orders are not eligible for return at this time. 

Items from my SALE section are not eligible for return.

Items must be returned unused, unworn, and unwashed. A suit that has been washed indicates it was used, and those cannot be refunded.

All returns are a subject to a 5% restocking fee per item based on the price paid, plus $12 in return shipping fees per order, both of which will be deducted from your refund. 

What is a restocking fee?

A restocking fee is a charge that a retailer deducts from a customer's refund when a returned product needs to be inspected, repackaged, or processed before it can be resold. Restocking fees exist because every return involves labor for inspection, repackaging materials, and the risk that the product can't be resold at full price. The restocking fee offsets some of that cost.

Do you accept exchanges?

Fabrics are often limited in availability so it's not guaranteed that the item you want will be in stock by the time we receive your return. 

Instead, here's how it works:

- submit your return (see return policy above to confirm your item is eligible for a return)

- place a new order separately for the piece you'd like

How do I start a return or exchange?

Website orders - return portal

Etsy orders - Just message me and I'll walk you through it. I'll send you a return shipping label and instructions from there.

Who pays for return shipping?

The customer is responsible for return shipping. The cost of the return label will be deducted from your refund.

I received the wrong item. What should I do?

Reach out right away and I'll make it right. I hand-make and pack every order myself, so mix-ups are rare but they do occasionally happen. When they do, I take care of it, including any shipping costs involved.

Can I return a customizable order?

Unfortunately, no. Customizable orders are made specifically for you based on your measurements and requests, so they can't be resold or returned. This is why I encourage messaging me before ordering if you have any questions, and why ordering a fabric swatch first is a good idea if you're unsure about a color.

I'm outside the US. Can I return my order?

Unfortunately, I'm not able to accept returns from international orders at this time.