Any suggestions on where I can buy a swimsuit that will look at least somewhat decent? I wear size 18/20. It will probably have to be mail-order, since swimsuit season is over, and that makes me especially nervous.

A friend has invited me on a tropical vacation this winter. We have fun together, but there's an added intimidation factor because she's gorgeous and very toned (she's an actress), and she draws attention wherever she goes. I've made peace with the whole comparison thing, and often it is easy to fade into the background, but the idea of being in a swimsuit ... eek! The temptation to self-pity eat has been terrible. I'd like to just relax and enjoy time with my friend, so the more flattering/modest the swimsuit, the better.

I don't want to spend a lot of money. I haven't yet given up on losing weight.

Woman Within has pretty good swimsuits that aren't too bad in price.. and usually this time of year they are on sale, too!

I bought mine at Old Navy - in the plus size part, online. I love it. I bought it when I was a size 20, and it fit me pretty well then (I bought it last year) but this year its a little too big in the boob area. But still wearable.

Anyway, they still have this in a 1x. I love this one!

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/produc...d=1&pid=652702

This isn't something I'd wear - I dont like the colors, but they have 1x still

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/produc...d=1&pid=634036

This is cute and basic

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/produc...d=1&pid=634035

Have fun! I know it helps to have a great bathing suit. I totally feel like an old Hollywood actress in mine I put on my big movie star sunglasses, and feel great! But then I've never been self conscious at the beach, I'm enjoying myself way to much to care about other people

I ordered one from LLBean. They have plus sizes and they are on sale now - which also means some sizes and colors are out. Worth a look!

This is the best swimsuit ever -- Grecian V-neck Slender Swimsuit.

http://www.landsend.com/pp/AlloverCo...80862_593.html

I bought it in size 14, but it comes in sizes up to 26.

Not to sound like a spammer, but I sell plus size swimwear in my online store (OhCheri.com)

I love to give advice so don't hesitate to contact me if you need help or have questions.

~Cheri

Land's End has my favorite swimsuits in all the various sizes I've worn over the years including plus.

Peg

Thanks for the awesome suggestions.

Swimsuit shopping is such a nightmare for me, and I'm not a big fan of swimming, anyway. I wish there was an upper-arm-flab-covering swimsuit.