What is Appropriate Swimwear for Teenage Girls?

A major concern for many parents is what constitutes appropriate swimwear for teenagers, particularly teenage girls. This is understandable: while some parents don’t see what the fuss is about, it’s a sensitive topic for others. In addition to not getting enough sun protection, we might also worry about unwanted attention.

Your teen might be more than happy to cover up on the beach or at the pool, either for religious reasons, for comfort or simply because they like the style, in which case there are plenty of options like girls’ swim tops and swim dresses, modest but cute swimwear, modest teen swimsuits, tankini swimsuits, young ladies modest swimwear, conservative swimwear for girls and much more. Alternatively, it’s also not uncommon to experience clothing-related clashes: it’s natural for teens to go through a rebellious phase. It can be all too easy to forget if you ever had one.

Appropriate Swimwear for Teenage Girls

Wading into the Debate

We want our girls to be confident, but we also want them to be safe. Most of all, we want to ensure they have fun, whether lounging by the pool or splashing in the waves. However, is “modest” or more covered-up swimwear the answer, and why should it matter in the first place?

The reason women and girls are hypersexualized in the media and consumer culture isn’t because of how they dress: it’s because, sadly, we still live in a society where they are objectified and taught to believe that self-worth is all about looks.

Finding a Balance

Between conflicting messages about body image, unrealistic beauty standards, and peer pressure, being a teenager is hard enough without feeling judged for their clothing choices. Criticism or berating can create a barrier to healthy discussions, even if you don’t necessarily approve.

While teenagers need their privacy, too much distance or having communication breakdowns can leave them without the resources they need to make safe decisions. It’s also important they feel that it’s safe to approach you if something is troubling them.

Instead, try to create a safe, non-judgmental space and find opportunities to talk about creativity, self-expression, and dressing in a way that makes them feel confident, comfortable, and happy. It’s normal for teenagers to want to experiment with their clothing, so make this a positive learning experience for you both.

Stay Safe, Have Fun

In an ideal world, sunscreen is the only protection our girls need. One argument in favor of covering up is to shield from unwanted attention. Still, others argue this deflects accountability back onto them, not full-grown adults who should be responsible for their behavior.

Ultimately, it’s about making choices not out of fear or shame but through empowerment and the knowledge to make wise decisions that will help keep them safe. While you can’t always be there for your teen, you can help them develop these skills and any practical advice they might need. That way, whether flying the nest or flying to a sunny beach with friends, they’ll be well-equipped for the journey ahead, no matter what they decide to wear.