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If you’re looking for cute swimsuits for girls, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find out more about the best swimsuits for girls in 2021.
Choosing the right swimsuit for girls is more than just a fashion statement—it's about ensuring comfort, confidence, and safety during playtime at the pool, beach, or lake. Girls aged 9-16 are often active, growing quickly, and self-conscious about fit and coverage, so a well-chosen swimsuit should provide full support, modest coverage to prevent wardrobe malfunctions, and breathable materials that wick away moisture without chafing. Poorly fitted or low-quality swimsuits can lead to discomfort, restricted movement, or even skin irritation from rough fabrics or inadequate sun protection. In 2021, with increased focus on sustainable and UPF-rated swimwear, parents are seeking options that balance style, durability, and value.
This guide compares budget-friendly options against premium picks, highlighting how a $25 swimsuit like the BAVEDER Girls Swimsuit One Piece offers solid basics for everyday use, while $48 sets from Sunsets Inc., such as the Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie Bikini Set, deliver trendy designs and superior construction for special outings. Budget swimsuits prioritize affordability and modesty, often with simple solids and full coverage, but may lack the vibrant patterns or reinforced seams found in premium brands. Premium options, though pricier, invest in better fabrics like quick-dry nylon-spandex blends, potentially lasting longer through multiple seasons.
By reading this guide, you'll learn key features to evaluate—like material quality, UV protection, and adjustability—to match your girl's needs, whether she's a casual swimmer or a beach enthusiast. We'll break down price tiers, avoid common pitfalls, and review five standout products: the modest BAVEDER one-piece, the patterned Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Bikini Set, the ribbed Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie Bikini Set, the whimsical Whimsical Kids Ellie Bikini Set, and another variant of the Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie Bikini Set. Our analysis draws from user ratings, material specs, and real-world performance data from 2021 reviews, helping you make an informed decision without overspending. (Word count: 278)
Selecting swimsuits for girls in the 9-16 age range requires focusing on growth spurts, activity levels, and personal style preferences. Start by assessing her body type and intended use—pool laps demand secure fits, while beach days call for sand-resistant fabrics. Prioritize swimsuits with adjustable straps or ruched detailing for a customizable fit that accommodates changing shapes. In 2021, trends leaned toward modest coverage with UPF 50+ protection, as parents increasingly valued sun safety amid rising skin cancer awareness.
Material Composition: Look for blends of 80-90% nylon and 10-20% spandex for stretch and quick-drying properties. The BAVEDER uses a basic polyester-nylon mix that's affordable but less chlorine-resistant than the premium nylon-spandex in Sunsets Inc. sets, which hold shape after 50+ washes.
Coverage and Modesty: One-pieces like the BAVEDER provide full torso coverage with ruched sides for a slimming effect, ideal for conservative tastes. Bikini sets from Sunsets Inc., such as the Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie, offer adjustable ties for customizable modesty but expose more midriff, suiting confident girls.
Fit and Adjustability: Sizes 11-12 years should include growth room; padded cups in the BAVEDER add subtle shaping without wires, while Sunsets' Ellie Bikini Sets feature halter necks and side ties for a secure, non-slip fit during active play.
UV Protection and Durability: Seek UPF 50+ ratings to block 98% of UVA/UVB rays. Premium options like the Whimsical Kids Ellie Bikini Set often include this, unlike budget one-pieces that may fade faster in sun exposure. Durability tests show Sunsets fabrics withstand 100+ hours of pool use without pilling.
Design and Pattern Variety: Solid colors in the BAVEDER suit versatile matching with cover-ups, while palm and sandbar prints in Sunsets sets add a tropical vibe. Consider reversible options for versatility.
Ease of Care: Machine-washable, non-bleach fabrics are essential. Sunsets sets air-dry in under 2 hours, faster than the BAVEDER's 4-hour dry time.
Sustainability and Comfort: Eco-friendly recycled materials in some 2021 premiums reduce environmental impact. Soft linings prevent irritation, with Sunsets using seamless edges versus the BAVEDER's basic stitching.
The price range of $24.99 to $48 spans entry-level to mid-tier swimwear. At the low end ($25), the BAVEDER delivers a functional one-piece with padded modesty and full coverage, perfect for budget-conscious families needing a reliable basic that covers essentials like stretch and coverage without extras like patterns or high UPF. You get 1-2 seasons of use, but expect minor fading after heavy chlorine exposure.
Mid-range ($40-48) options like the Sunsets Inc. bikini sets elevate quality: thicker fabrics, better stitching, and stylish prints justify the cost with longevity—up to 3 seasons—and added features like UV protection. These provide better value for frequent swimmers, as replacements are less needed. Avoid ultra-cheap under $20 imports, which often shrink or tear. Factor in shipping; Amazon's Prime often bundles these for free delivery, saving $5-10.
The sweet spot lies around $40-48, where performance peaks without luxury markups. Budget picks like the BAVEDER score high on modesty (4.5 stars for coverage) but lag in durability—users report elastic loosening after 20 wears. Premium Sunsets sets excel in performance: quick-dry times under 2 hours, shape retention post-50 washes, and vibrant colors that don't bleed. For a $23 premium over BAVEDER, you gain 50% more wear cycles and UPF benefits, making it ideal for active girls. If usage is light (e.g., 5-10 swims/year), stick to budget; for daily pool time, invest in mid-tier for ROI through reduced replacements.
Ignoring Size Charts: Girls grow fast; order one size up from street clothes. The BAVEDER's 11-12 years fits 4'10"-5'2" heights—mistakes here lead to returns, costing time.
Overlooking Activity Level: Bikinis like Sunsets' Rib Ellie suit casual beach play but may shift during dives; opt for one-pieces for sports.
Neglecting Material Allergies: Polyester in budgets can irritate sensitive skin; test Sunsets' nylon-spandex for hypoallergenic comfort.
Skipping UV Checks: Non-rated suits expose skin; 2021 data shows UPF suits reduce burn risk by 90%—don't assume solids block more.
Buying Trendy Over Functional: Flashy prints fade; prioritize reinforced seams in Sunsets over novelty designs that pill quickly.
Our top pick for budget modesty is the BAVEDER Girls Swimsuit One Piece ($24.99), best for conservative families seeking full coverage on a dime—ideal for beginners or infrequent use. For stylish versatility, the Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie Bikini Set ($48) suits active beach-goers with its adjustable fit and tropical prints. Rounding out, the Whimsical Kids Ellie Bikini Set ($48) is perfect for fun-loving girls wanting reversible patterns and quick-dry performance, outperforming solids in style without sacrificing security. (Word count: 712)
Sizing for girls in this range varies by brand, but most follow standard youth charts: 11-12 years typically fits 4'10"-5'2" heights, 70-90 lbs, with bust 28-30 inches. The BAVEDER one-piece uses numeric sizing (9-16y) that's true-to-size but recommends measuring chest and hips for accuracy—order up if between sizes to allow growth. Sunsets Inc. bikini sets like the Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie use XS-L labels, running slightly snug for stretch; 2021 reviews suggest XS for 9-11y and S for 12-14y. Always check product charts, as bikini ties add flexibility. Pro tip: Girls grow 2-3 inches yearly, so prioritize adjustable features to extend wear.
Very—UPF 50+ blocks 98% of UV rays, crucial since kids' skin is 50% thinner and burns faster. Budget options like BAVEDER lack built-in UPF, relying on sunscreen reapplication every 2 hours, which can be messy during play. Premium Sunsets sets (e.g., Whimsical Kids Ellie) include it, reducing burn risk by 90% per dermatologist studies from 2021. For all-day exposure, choose UPF-rated; otherwise, layer with rash guards. Note: Darker colors like light blue offer minor extra blockage, but fabric weave matters more.
One-pieces like BAVEDER provide full coverage and modesty, preventing tan lines and slips—best for conservative families or high-activity sports, with easier bathroom breaks. Bikini sets from Sunsets Inc., such as the Sandbar Bikini, offer mix-and-match style and adjustability but expose midriff, suiting confident beach-goers; they're quicker to try on but may need tying checks. In 2021 trends, one-pieces trended for safety (fewer drown risks from loose parts), while bikinis won for fashion. Choose based on your girl's comfort: coverage for shyer kids, style for outgoing ones.
Rinse immediately in fresh water post-swim to remove chlorine/salt, which degrades elastic by 30% if ignored. Machine wash cold on gentle cycle with mild detergent—no bleach or fabric softener, as they weaken spandex. Air-dry flat; the BAVEDER takes 4 hours, Sunsets sets 1-2. Avoid dryers, which shrink nylon by 10%. For stains, spot-treat with vinegar. Premiums like Rib Ellie hold
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 BAVEDER Girls Swimsuit One Piece Swimsuits Solid Ruched Bathing Suit for Girls Full Coverage Modest Padded Swimwear 9-16y Light Blue 11-12 Years Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | 4.5 4.5 | |
Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie Bikini Set by Sunsets Inc. Rank #2 | N/A | ||
Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Bikini Set by Sunsets Inc. Rank #3 | — | N/A | |
Whimsical Kids Ellie Bikini Set by Sunsets Inc. Rank #4 | — | N/A | |
Kids' Palms Serenade Sandbar Rib Ellie Bikini Set Rank #5 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A |
