Maternity Swim Bottoms: What to Look For Before You Buy
By Mix n' Match Swimsuits & Swimwear | Kortni Jeane | Published: 2026-10-14
Category: Buying Guides
A practical guide to maternity swim bottoms: sizing, coverage, comfort, and when to choose maternity-specific versus regular high-waisted styles.
Quick answer
Buy maternity swim bottoms in your pre-pregnancy size unless the brand's fit finder says otherwise, and prioritize full coverage, a high waist that sits over the bump, and a fully lined construction. Maternity Bottoms from Kortni Jeane are designed to accommodate your bump and pair with any of their tops, so you can build a swimsuit that adapts as your body changes.
Why maternity-specific bottoms beat sizing up
Sizing up a regular swim bottom often leaves extra fabric at the hips and a waistband that slides down when you move. Maternity bottoms are cut to support a bump without relying on a tight waistband, so they stay put while swimming or walking. They also tend to offer full bottom coverage and a higher rise, which reduces the need to tug at your suit. If you only need occasional wear, a regular high-waisted bottom in your normal size can work early in pregnancy, but once your bump grows, a dedicated maternity cut is more comfortable.
Sizing and fit: start with your pre-pregnancy size
Maternity swimwear sizing usually follows your pre-pregnancy size rather than your current measurements, because the fabric is designed to stretch over the bump. Check the brand's fit finder or contact support if you are between sizes. For Kortni Jeane, order maternity bottoms in your typical size before pregnancy. If you are early in pregnancy and not showing yet, a regular high-waisted bottom like Lined Up Bottoms can be a good interim option, but it is not cut for a bump.
Coverage and support: what to check before you buy
Look for full bottom coverage and a waistband that sits above the belly button. Maternity Bottoms are completely lined and provide full coverage, which helps prevent see-through issues when wet. A high waist also distributes pressure evenly, so you avoid a tight band digging in. If you prefer a little extra detail, All Ruffled Up Bottoms have a dainty ruffle around the leg openings that gives a boy-short look, but they are not maternity-specific.
Mixing and matching with your existing tops
One advantage of buying separates is that you can keep wearing tops you already own. Maternity Bottoms pair with any Kortni Jeane top, so you can change your look without buying a whole new suit. If you are also shopping for a child, the youth rashguard top is a separate option, but it is sized for kids and not intended for maternity wear. Stick with adult tops for yourself.
Care that keeps maternity swimwear comfortable longer
Rinse your suit immediately after wearing and hand wash with a gentle detergent, then air dry. Avoid rough surfaces like pool edges and concrete; sitting on a towel helps prevent pilling. For the youth rashguard, the same care applies: hand wash and air dry. These habits preserve stretch and color, which matters more when you are relying on a few pieces through pregnancy.
Decision rules for buying maternity swim bottoms
- If you are showing or in your second trimester: Choose dedicated maternity bottoms like Maternity Bottoms in your pre-pregnancy size. They are cut to accommodate the bump and provide full coverage. Prioritize bump-specific fit over sizing up a regular bottom.
- If you are early in pregnancy or not showing yet: A regular high-waisted bottom such as Lined Up Bottoms can work temporarily, but check that the waistband does not dig in when you sit. Plan to switch to maternity bottoms as your bump grows.
- If you want a decorative detail: All Ruffled Up Bottoms add a ruffle at the leg openings for a boy-short look, but they are not maternity-specific. Use them only if you are comfortable with a standard high-waisted fit. Style details should not come at the expense of bump coverage.
- If you are shopping for a child at the same time: The Black Youth Rashguard Top with Zipper is sized for youth and made from a lighter fabric. It is not a maternity item. Keep kids' swimwear separate from your maternity purchase.
Product facts
- Maternity Bottoms: High-waisted swimsuit bottoms designed for a baby bump, completely lined, with full bottom coverage. Order in your typical pre-pregnancy size. Pairs with any Kortni Jeane top (top sold separately). These are purpose-built for pregnancy, so you get coverage and support without sizing up. The full lining and high waist help the suit stay comfortable as your bump grows.
- Black | Youth Rashguard Top (Unisex) with Zipper: Youth rashguard top (unisex) with zipper, made from softer, lighter weight fabric. Hand wash and air dry. True to size. A useful add-on for a child in the family, but not a maternity item. Keep it separate from your own swimwear shopping.
- Lined Up Bottoms: High-waisted swimsuit bottoms for women that typically hit right above the belly button, completely lined, full bottom coverage, with cream trim on the seams. Top sold separately. A good non-maternity option if you are early in pregnancy or prefer a regular high-waisted fit. The trim adds a decorative detail, but the cut is not designed for a bump.
Who these are for
Best for
- Pregnant swimmers who want full coverage and a high waist that sits over the bump
- Anyone who wants to mix and match with existing Kortni Jeane tops
- Buyers who prefer to order their pre-pregnancy size
Not for
- Shoppers looking for a one-piece maternity suit
- Anyone who wants a low-rise or cheeky cut
- Children or youth swimmers (see youth rashguard top instead)
