I’m 5’2” and Pregnant and This Is the Best Maternity Swimsuit I’ve Had All Summer

A summer pregnancy has pros and cons in the fashion department. On the one hand, you can easily wear non-maternity pieces as long as the material is billowy enough. On the other, there are certain things you have to buy in the maternity department.

The best example of this? Swimwear.

Sure, you could eek out summer in that two-piece you already have in your closet. After all, what better time to show off that beautiful and burgeoning belly? But for me, that didn’t seem like a good idea. I’ve been a one-piece gal my whole life—it’s how I’m most comfortable and feel most myself. And so, I conducted non-stop internet research and polled my mom friends to find the perfect maternity swimwear fit. My criteria? I wanted to highlight my belly but look like myself (I wasn’t really in the market for mumsy-feeling patterns or cut-outs). And I needed boob and belly support as well as straps that weren’t too big for my 5’2” frame. (Bonus points if it feels like something I can still reach for postpartum, of course.)

Reader, I found this magic suit and it’s from—wait for it—the Gap.

Meet the Gap square-neck suit, pictured above. Hot pink is my go-to color, pregnant or not, and while it’s currently sold out in pink it’s also available in black, black polka dots and larkspur blue. As a shortie, I love that the straps are adjustable and there’s a cute tie that sits across your shoulder blades at the back. There’s ample bum coverage and the cut on the thighs isn’t too high either. The side ruching lends itself well to a growing belly, but also makes the fit flattering, meaning I’ll wear it through my third trimester and possibly post-partum too.

And, if you’re looking for more than one option, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention another hot pink Gap swimsuit I currently have in my cart: The strappy V-neck one-piece, $90. This has all the same appeal as the square-neck with one modification: a different neckline. (I also like the double straps.)

More than anything, I’m impressed by the quality of these Gap suits. I’ve worn and washed mine several times this summer and it has held its shape and color throughout—no signs of fading or fraying so far.

So, what are you waiting for? This is at least one prenatal to-do you can cross off your list.