How old is too old to wear a bikini?

My friend told me that you shouldn't wear a 2 piece after 40. Is that true? If so, what bathing suits are ok?

Wed. Jun 11, 1:27pm

I kind of agree with your friend. I've always thought it looked out of place when women over forty wear mini skirts so I don't think this is any different. Although, it doesn't mean you can't still get a flirty one-piece or tankini! I believe in keeping a little skin hidden to be left to the imagination!

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 1:29 PM

I think it depends on what YOU are comfortable with. I think it is fine to wear a two piece at whatever age or weight if that's what you want to wear.

i stopped wearing bikinis as a teenager because I swim distances and a regular full bodied swim suit is much more comfortable for swimming. Straps stay where they need to be. I have a friend who wears a tankini and she is 50 and looks adorable in it. She kayaks and likes the give between the bottom and top.

As you can see, there is a quiet theme here. What are you doing in the bathing suit? Hopefully you are being active and having fun...and hopefully you aren't just baking on a beach. Make sure you are wearing some good quality sun block and wear the suit that lets you LIVE.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 1:39 PM

I kind of take both sides on this. If I had Demi Moore's body, sure I'd wear a bikini over 40. But on the other hand, I watch moms chasing their little ones on the beach (even the ones with great bods) and it just seems kind of wrong. I'm not saying women over 40 should be wearing mumu's, but maybe there's a time and place, like a pp said. If you're away at some resort that's predominantly adults/couples/whatever, then go ahead. But if you're out for family day, maybe your kids shouldn't see your jugs bouncing around in a t-top.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 1:58 PM

How about what SIZE is too big to wear a bikini. I remember when I was a teen and a size 2-4 I would gasp at the size 10-12 bikinis and even told my friend they shouldn't make bikinis that big since no one that big should be wearing one.
Last summer I was a size 10 and wearing a bikini, I knew I was big but didn't want to give in to the one piece. This year a size 6-8...but still wondering if people are saying "what is she doing in that?" (im 25, age is not yet a factor)

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 2:56 PM

I'm 26, and I spent way too long covering up my body!! I hope to wear a bikini as long as I can!

It's what you, personally, feel comfortable with.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 3:12 PM

I agree with the miniskirt thing and other 'young' clothes on the 35+ crowd, but I see bathing suits differently and I'm not sure why...Part of me thinks as long as you can pull off the bikini,go for it. The problem is - most 'normal' women (i.e., non-celebs who haven't had every procedure under the sun or benefit from airbrushsing - haha) can't pull it off.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 5:50 PM

I have NEVER worn a bikini. When I was 18 and 115 lbs I wouldn't wear a bikini because I thought I was too fat. Now I'm 29 and 150 lbs. Maybe I should make it a goal to wear a bikini at some point in my life.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 9:12 PM

I think that if a person is happy with how they look and feel in a bikini (or a short skirt) they should wear it as old as they like? I think a lot of these kinds of "rules" - like the no white shoes after labour day thing - are more and more a thing of the past.

For those who think it's inappropriate - I think it's fine to decide FOR YOURSELF if something is not appropriate, but it's not cool to decide that for other people. :(

Personally when I see someone in a bikini who is is maybe not necessarily the cookie-cutter "bikini body" I think GOOD FOR THEM for having the self-confidence to dress how they like! And who the heck am I to look at anyone and say they SHOULDN'T be wearing that???????

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 9:16 PM

well 40 is the new 30... hey I agree it is not necessarily the age it's the body,
It is the beach/pool we are talking about...mini skirt different issue, no one over 35 yrs old should be sportin that no matter what the body holds, b/c you would be wearing that to the market, mall and well much to much skin, but I expectthat at the poolside ...

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 10:28 PM

I've never been able to wear a bikini in my life because of my size. Now I'm at a healthy weight and look and feel pretty good but I won't wear a bikini because I have gross stretch marks (the iridescent ones-they're old) and loose/cellulity skin all over my stomach. And I just turned 30. I say, if you look good and feel good, wear the bikini, no matter what your age.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008, 11:10 PM

Frankly, I'd be curious how old the commenters are - amazing how as you get older your viewpoint changes about issues related to age! If you feel good in it - wear it! Who cares what the 20 year olds think!

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 12:15 AM

Hey, I'm 40. I have lived all over the US, moving for work.

- As far as how heavy is too heavy, that's a regional question. I grew up in New England where you had to be REALLY thin to "get away" with a bikini. Then I moved to Texas, and discovered that everyone under 250 pounds wore a bikini there. Woo hoo! (I really like the Texas outlook better.) And then I moved to Northern California, where if you go to the right beach, well, no one wears a bathing suit at all. :-)

- As far as how old is too old, I'm playing it by ear. I now weigh substantially less than I did at 20, have no stretch marks, got some good muscle definition, and recently bought my first non-sport bikini. (Yes to one PP, I too kayak in a sport bikini.) Yep, at 40 I bought a string bikini -- not one of the radically tiny ones, but still! Self-inspection shows no embarrassing flab, my bf says it looks great and isn't afraid to be seen with me in public... ...so that takes care of all the opinions I really care about. :-)

Oh, and its definitely okay to wear white shoes after Labor Day if you live south of the Mason-Dixon line. If anyone gives you sh*t, tell 'em it's a result of Global Warming. :-)

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 12:41 AM

I'm 40 and say the bikini is a great choice for the person who can pull it off. And that doesn't mean you have to be Demi Moore - but that does help ;) I see lots of women of all ages who have a good 30-40 pounds on me wearing bikinis - and they can pull it off. They got the right suit and they've got the confidence. Oh how I envy that confidence!

On clothes in general, I just find people most attractive when they wear clothes that suit their bodies and age. That goes for men, too. Grown up men dressing like a grown up ....mmmm....so appealing!

Obviously, people are going to wear what they want to wear, age be damned. And whatever they choose - that's the image they project to the world. If they're happy with it - hey, ultimately (as a single person) it could be good for me! Perhaps Mr. Fabulous isn't into the mature mini-skirt wearer... :) One can be 40 & stylish, btw! We're not banished to Talbots once we turn the big 4 - 0.

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 12:42 AM

I'm 22 and i think you're never too old to wear a bikini. My mum is 57, and every year since she hit 50 she's declared that she's too old to wear a bikini, and then by the thirf day she's back in it. he philosophy has also always been brown fat looks better than white fat, and i quite agree, my sqwidgy tummy looks much better with a tan. it's also much cooler, and you dry off more quickly! don't give up the bikinis ladies

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 12:59 AM

I think that anyone who has the confidence to wear a bikini should wear one. If one truly feels comfortable with themself then it will make them look more attractive at any age.

My mom is almost 60 and looks terrific in her bikini.

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 1:08 AM

Not too old .... however too big

I think if you are healthy (and no that does not mean pencil thin), you can wear a bikini for as long as you like. I have seen 60 year old women who are in better shape then 20 year old girls. What is "wrong" is when a very very heavy woman tries to squeeze into a bikini which is too small for her and body parts are hanging out.
I am around the bend from 40 and I will wear one as long as I continue to be a size 6.

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 2:38 PM

I say wear whatever makes you feel fabulous, no matter what your age. If you're a 40+ year old, size 12 (for example) and feel great about yourself, wear the bikini! I love the European attitude towards swimsuits, or the lack thereof. Heavy old men in speedos do not bother me. Wear what you want, no matter your age.

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 3:36 PM

Age really has nothing to do with it. If a fabulous looking, firm and well toned woman is wearing a bikini and looking good in it, who cares if she's 40, 50, 60 or whatever? On the other hand, if a flabby cellulite dimpled 25 year old with midriff bulge is wearing that same bikini, I say GROSS!

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 7:59 PM

"I agree with the miniskirt thing and other 'young' clothes on the 35+ crowd"

OMG!!!
Are you serious?
Have you seen how women look in their 35s??? Not much different than in their 25!!! I am 24 for the record but i am hoping that when i become 35 i won't look much different than now! My sister is 35, slim, thin, toned and of course she will still be wearing mini skirts for probably 10 more years and look fabulous. Is there anything wrong with mini skirts? Do they seem trashy to you? A mini can be classy and sexy at the same time! Am i the only one who thinks like that? 35! Jesus! Perhaps as a pp said you match age with weight? There IS a separation!

Thursday, June 12, 2008, 8:22 PM

I'm 33 and agree with age-appropriate clothing. But there's also event-appropriate clothing and size-appropriate clothing and family-status-appropriate clothing... at least in my opinion, for myself.
I've always worn mini skirts. I'm short, I have toned legs - mini skirts always looked best on me. But now I'm a mom with school-age kids. I'll still wear a mini skirt going out for drinks w/ my friends, but won't wear a mini skirt to a school event. I find it inappropriate - for me.
The previous comment about brown fat looking better than white fat - LOL!!! I have always held the same theory!! I think it's because when you're tan you give the illusion of being an active beach-goer. If you're going to the beach, you must be in shape! : ) I'm all in favor of the sun-kissed look! (Not the leathery, over-baked look!)

Friday, June 13, 2008, 11:32 AM

Wear what you want to wear. That is your business. If it isn't bordering on a misdemeanor charge let it hang out. No matter your age or size. Have a good time. You are not sitting around the pool to be miserable. Enjoy yourself.

Friday, June 13, 2008, 1:38 PM

omg why not wear a bikini after 40 if you feel okay with it?

The beach is a very casual atmosphere. It would be different for a 40 year old to show up to work with a brand new eyebrow peircing.

Friday, June 13, 2008, 2:55 PM

I never had the gutts to wear a bikini until I was 40

Friday, June 13, 2008, 2:57 PM

If you have a hot body you should wear a bikini at any age.
There is nothing in the ethical handbook that says at age 40 is too old for a bikini. What about us men? I'm 43 and fairly built. Am I too old for a swimming suit? Should I swim with a T shirt on? Get real.

Besides, women in their 40's are like prime rib........Sweet, tender and juicy.
Who wouldn't want to see that wrapped up in a bikini?

Food for thought!

Friday, June 13, 2008, 3:46 PM

If you are over a size 12 you should NOT wear a bikini, at any age.
As far as mini skirts, hey if you have the legs flaunt them - look at Tina Turner.

Friday, June 13, 2008, 4:04 PM

too old to wear a bikini?

Wearing what make you feel sexy and confident should be your choice, not society's. Women already have too many hangups and labels attributed to them already, so if you have the balls and guts (no puns intended) to get into a bikini, I say, "go for it," you only live once, so damn the torpedos and enjoy the hell out of life. Like Auntie Mame said: LIVE, LIVE, LIVE............. I totally agree.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 7:41 AM

TOO OLD TO WEAR A BIKINI?

OMG! Ladies YOU KNOW if you should be in a bikini or not! It's not a question of age!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 8:42 AM

How old is too old to wear a bikini?

Your friend is being a bit insecure and judgmental. Wear whatever suit you are comfortable in, regardless of how old or what size you are. Why on Earth should you care what someone else thinks? It's time we became more focused on our health and emotional well-being and less worried about what other people think is right or wrong. If you feel great in a bikini, then rock whatever one you love! If you prefer more coverage for modesty, sports, or sun protection, then by all means, pick something you're comfortable in.

Be aware also that sometimes our friends make suggestions based on what THEY are comfortable with. We are by no means obligated to live by someone else's insecurities or opinions.

Have a ball, wear whatever you love, and your happiness and confidence will make that suit look great, whatever style you choose!

Link

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 8:45 AM

personal choice

I am a 39yr. old women and I still wear the bikini!! I work out and take care of myself. My body is not perfect, but I feel comfortable in my own skin and I think that is key to pulling off the bikini. A healthy sized woman with confidence is more attractive then a size 2 woman with no confidence. I say go for it, like one of the other ladies said you only live once so enjoy, embrace life however you choose!! So, keep your chin up, shoulders back, and tummy tight! Women are beautiful no matter what size they are as long as they are healthy.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 9:53 AM

I'm the poster from way back on June 11, 2008, 9:12 PM. And I just wanted to say that I lost 20 pounds and wore my first bikini at age 30! At first I felt insecure but after a while I realized I looked just as good as the majority of the people at the beach. It was a good accomplishment. I say wear the bikini as long as you feel it's appropriate for you!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 11:03 AM

PP, congratulations on reaching your goal!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 11:09 AM

I think it depends more on how you look than on what age you actually are. If you look toned and fit (no wrinkles, sags, bags, etc.) then it really doesn't matter how old you are. I've seen plenty of 20-somethings in bikinis that should definitely not be wearing them. Girls with saggy bellies and breasts, or pudgy or even downright fat and flabby bellies. Then I've seen older women with silver gray hair who are fit and toned and look fabulous in bikinis.

Why not just try to be the best you that you can be, and wear what looks best on you?

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 2:08 PM

I just saw a pic of Helen Mirren in a bikini and she rocked it! That is my goal! I want to look like that in a bikini at any age.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 2:16 PM

I wore a bikini when I was 9 months pregnant. At 63 I'm still proud to be wearing bikinis and if I get past 90 and can walk and swim I will continue to wear a bikini. So girls, throw caution to the wind and wear what you want!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 3:23 PM

I think it depends on you. I mean, if the logic is one shouldn't wear a bikini when one isn't young, hot, and gorgeous...well, there are plenty of ladies under 40 who shouldn't wear a bikini. If the idea is that it just isn't appropriate because "mature ladies" shouldn't wear such a thing, even if you look like an olympic athlete, well...that is a judgement call that you are entitled to make on your own. I admit an older lady in a bikini does surprise...but I do the same for obese mothers of 6 in a one piece. If you can take the heat, go ahead and keep cookin'. If you can't, you cover up.

Thursday, July 15, 2010, 5:08 PM

Oh my word! Are you serious??? If your body looks good in a bikini, then by all means, please do wear one! I only own bikinis, and I'm over 40. On the other hand, those who need to lose large amounts of weight need not wear a bikini....as is the case with the woman at the local pool who insists upon wearing a string bikini and she needs to lose at least 75 lbs. Not attractive. At all!

Friday, July 16, 2010, 9:00 AM

i think you should only wear a bikini if you have the body for it. to me, if you look hot in it, it doesnt matter what age you are. :)

Friday, July 16, 2010, 7:26 PM

Should women over 40 wear bikinis

I hope so. I'm 49 and I just ordered 2 bikinis from Victoria's Secret for my trip to Hawaii. I'm 5'6", muscular and 115 lbs.. I don't look that much different than I used to in a bathing suit, but I am 49 and not sure if this is a bad idea. I'm a personal trainer and so I notice people's builds without trying to. A couple of years ago I saw a woman at the poolside in a bikini who must have been over 60, but her body looked under 30. I was actually very impressed and thought that she was my idol. When I told my kids that I wanted to be a fit older woman in a bikini someday, they responded that I already was. I guess age is relative.

Friday, August 6, 2010, 4:00 PM

Many women over the age of 40 look better than girls half their age, so it's not the age, it's how the woman looks in it! Can you spot every woman out there over the age of 40? I'm 45 and people think I'm 35... does that mean I can't wear a 2 piece? Absurdity...

Saturday, August 7, 2010, 12:50 AM

No one has asked yet, so I will. How old is too old for a man to wear a Speedo?

Saturday, August 7, 2010, 5:52 PM

I think men should only wear speedos if they're competitive swimmers. And only when they're either training or competing. But that's just my opinion.

Saturday, August 7, 2010, 8:05 PM

Wearing a bikini after age 50

I really can't believe some of these comments. I agree with the respondents that believe one's body should be the deciding factor rather than age. I workout at least an hour each day, seven days a week and watch what I eat while staying very active. I still wear a bikini and get complements even though I'm over 40 (I'm 60.) If I'm going to be playing volley ball on the beach I would probably go with a tankini only because it will stay on my body. One really needs to take a critical look in the mirror before venturing out in public. Although my arms are toned, I know enough not to wear sleeveless tops because there is the "wrinkled skin issue" but a bathing suit is going to show the arms whether is is a one piece or a bikini. I also wouldn't wear a mini skirt because the "look" is too young for me but a bathing suit is something different. Just visit any northern European country at the seaside if you are not a believer.

Sunday, August 29, 2010, 3:06 PM

I think you can wear a bikini at any age. Bikinis look great on confidence and that usually comes with age.

Sunday, August 29, 2010, 3:17 PM

I think you should wear what you feel comfortable in. I am 41 and have a swimming pool in my back yard. I wear a bikini and sometimes wear nothing at all :) When I have friends over I wear a tankini just because I am more comfortable. We have a nice slide and I don't want to go down the side and come up barring all to the world lol. Life is to short! Be Happy!!

Sunday, August 29, 2010, 3:19 PM

This is part of the reason our daughters have eating disorders

By saying that only people with perfect bodies should wear revealing clothes/bathing suits we immediately give credence to the very dangerous idea that only thin athleticism is acceptable. We ALL need to change the way we think about the human body. People should be able to wear the clothing that makes THEM feel comfortable, not the clothing that makes YOU feel comfortable. People come in all shapes and sizes. Preach tolerance and inclusivity, not restriction and exclusion.

Sunday, August 29, 2010, 10:32 PM

To the 3 prior posters- I LOVE you all!

8/29 10:32pm: I could not have said that any better.

Women- Let's all be kinder to each other.

Monday, August 30, 2010, 1:34 AM

Yes, let's support eachother!! There are enough men to go around. We don't need to tear eachother down. Long live the bikini for all ages!

Monday, August 30, 2010, 8:58 AM

Try on both a bikini and a one piece swim suit and decide which one looks better.

Monday, August 30, 2010, 2:15 PM

I think if you feel comfortable in it, than wear it. I just had a birthday and bought and wore my first bikini in years. I felt great, my husband LOVED it, I loved how he loved it.

it was and is a great feeling. I need to lose a few pounds and this just reminded me of how sexy he thinks I am and how true it is.

Monday, August 30, 2010, 8:42 PM

You go girl! That's what its all about.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010, 12:19 PM

To the Sunday 10:32 poster-
I really don't think people are saying you need the perfect body or a six pack to wear a bikini. Being healthy looks good in many different sizes and being dangerously thin can look just as bad in a bikini as someone who's sizes above the "perfect body".

Personally I think no matter your age if you put on a bikini and like what you see then wear it proudly, having said that I also don't know how people wear next to nothing (regardless of size because we all know that barely there clothing comes in all shapes and sizes) because it's just tacky in my opinion.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010, 3:33 PM

bikini wearing age

The age limit is determined by the suitability of the lady-regardless the age. A best friend of mine, over 55, used recently not to prefer bikini wearing due to age limitations. I ordered and donated her two bikini costumes, extremely tiny indeed, and I persuaded to try them on her. She got so entusiastic that since then, she started to buy and wear bikinis of this type only!

Saturday, January 1, 2011, 2:41 PM

You're never too old for a bikini

Whether you're 5 or you're 50 if you feel comfortable in a bikini why shouldn't you wear it?

Link

Tuesday, August 26, 2014, 4:54 PM

Related Content: How To Lose Weight- The Basics Weight Watchers Points System The Fat Smash Diet The Eat To Live Diet The Beck Diet Solution How To Get The Motivation To Lose Weight		How To Be Successful Using PEERtrainer How To Burn Fat Online Weight Loss Support- How It Works Does Green Tea Help You Lose Weight? Tips On Using PEERtrainer Visit The PEERtrainer Community Diet and Fitness Resources
Fitness Weight Watchers Meetings Learning To Inspire Others: You Already Are Writing Down Your Daily Workouts Spending Money On A Personal Trainer? How I Became A Marathon Runner		Preventive Health How To Prevent Injuries During Your Workout Flu Season: Should You Take The Flu Shot? Are You Really Ready To Start PEERtrainer? Super Foods That Can Boost Your Energy Reversing Disease Through Nutrition
New Diet and Fitness Articles: Weight Watchers Points Plus How To Adjust Your Body To Exercise New: Weight Watchers Momentum Program New: PEERtrainer Blog Archive Review Of The New Weight Watchers Momentum Program		Weight Loss Motivation by Joshua Wayne: Why Simple Goal Setting Is Not Enough How To Delay Short Term Gratification How To Stay Motivated How To Exercise With A Busy Schedule
Real World Nutrition and Fitness Questions Can Weight Lifting Help You Lose Weight? Are Protein Drinks Safe? Nutrition As Medicine?		Everyday Weight Loss Tips How To Eat Healthy At A Party How To Eat Out And Still Lose Weight The Three Bite Rule Tips On How To Stop A Binge