The complete guide to shaping swimsuits

✦ COMPLETE GUIDE 2026
Updated April 2026

The Complete Guide to Shaping Swimsuits

A shaping swimsuit features a built-in shapewear panel that sculpts and supports the stomach, waist, and hips. MAYAS offers 6 styles with interchangeable pads in 3 levels — from natural shape to dramatic lift — all from 899 kr.

What is a shaping swimsuit?

A shaping swimsuit is designed with a strategically placed compression insert — what we call a shapewear panel — that sits close to your body and creates a smooth, sculpting effect. It's not about hiding anything or creating a false shape, but rather about enhancing your natural silhouette and giving you the confidence you need when you're in your swimwear.

The shapewear panel in a MAYAS swimsuit is constructed from 4 layers of Italian materials that are both stretchy and resilient. This means you get a beautiful, smooth effect without losing freedom of movement. You can swim, run along the beach, and enjoy the summer without giving your swimsuit a second thought.

What makes MAYAS' system special is that you can swap between different pad levels inside the bra channel. This gives you complete control over how much lift and shape you need on any given day.

How does MAYAS' shaping system work?

MAYAS' shaping system is built on three elements that work together to give you the perfect fit and shape:

1. The shapewear panel (4-layer Italian materials)

The built-in compression insert extends from the chest down through the stomach and to the hips. It fits snugly, but without feeling tight or uncomfortable. The material is OEKO-TEX 100 certified, meaning it has been tested for harmful chemicals and is safe for your skin.

2. The bra channel and interchangeable pads

Every MAYAS style features a dedicated bra channel where you can switch between three different pad levels. The standard pads are included and provide a natural, smooth shape. If you want more lift, you can purchase Light Push-Up pads or Super Push-Up pads for 49 kr per pair. This means one swimsuit can truly be tailored to your day.

3. Premium Italian materials

All MAYAS swimsuits are made from Italian materials that are durable, stretchy, and comfortable. They are designed to hold their shape through hundreds of swims and wash cycles.

MAYAS is the only swimsuit on the Danish market with interchangeable pads in 3 levels. This means you can adjust your look entirely to suit your needs — without buying three different swimsuits.

The 3 pad levels explained

The pads are the most important tool for personalizing your MAYAS swimsuit. Here is what you get with each level:

Standard pads (included)

The standard pads provide a natural, smooth shape without adding volume. They are perfect if you want your assets subtly enhanced without any drama, or if you simply want to feel comfortable and supported. They are also ideal for everyday use or if you share a swimsuit with others.

Light Push-Up pads (49 kr)

These pads add subtle volume and lift — perfect if you want a little extra shape without it being too obvious. The Light Push-Up gives you the same effect as a great balconette bra: defined shape and increased confidence.

Super Push-Up pads (49 kr)

If you want maximum shape and volume, the Super Push-Up pads are your new best friends. They provide dramatic lift and a fuller silhouette. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply days when you want to feel extra feminine and fabulous.

Who are shaping swimsuits for?

Shaping swimsuits are for everyone — absolutely everyone! Regardless of your age, size, or body shape. It's not about conforming to a standard, but about feeling comfortable and confident when you're in your swimwear.

Some women wear shaping swimsuits because they want extra support around the stomach. Others because they feel the shapewear panel gives them a beautiful silhouette they love. And others simply because they appreciate the details and quality of what they buy.

A MAYAS swimsuit is for you if you value quality, comfort, and beautiful design. It's for you if you want a swimsuit that follows your body, supports it, and highlights your best features.

How to choose the right shaping swimsuit

Finding the perfect swimsuit takes a little thought, but it's absolutely worth it. Here are five tips to guide you through the process:

1. Find your size first
All MAYAS styles are sized according to international size charts (XS–XXL). We recommend measuring your bust, waist, and hip circumference, then matching those measurements with our size guide at mayas.co/pages/kropstyper. A poorly fitting swimsuit — no matter how beautiful — will never be comfortable.
2. Choose your pad level based on your preferences
Do you want a natural shape or extra lift? Standard pads give a smooth finish; Light Push-Up gives elegant lift; Super Push-Up gives drama. Think about where you'll be wearing the swimsuit and how you want to feel.
3. Choose a color to suit your skin tone
Black and Navy are classic choices that suit everyone. If you have a warm skin tone, try Chestnut or Dusty Green. If you have a cool skin tone, try King Blue or Silky Blue. Nude works beautifully if you want to create the illusion of longer legs.
4. Consider style details and the occasion
Are you heading on holiday, to the beach, or to a pool? Do you prefer a high waist or a classic cut? Valencia has a high waist with structure and shape; Celestia is classic and elegant; Aurora and Harmony are versatile all-rounders. Browse each style in our image gallery.
5. Try our Fit Finder quiz
If you're unsure, head to mayas.co/pages/kropstyper and answer our simple quiz. It asks questions about your body shape, your preferences, and your style — and gives you personalized recommendations for which style is perfect for you.

MAYAS' 6 shaping styles — full overview

Here is a clear overview of all six MAYAS styles. Every style features the same fantastic shapewear panel and interchangeable pads — the differences lie in the style, details, and how they suit different body types and occasions.

Style Price Best for Colors Shaping level
Aurora 899 kr Bust support + waist definition Black, Chestnut, Navy, King Blue, Dusty Green, Silky Blue, Nude High
Celestia 899 kr Classic elegance, all body types Black, Nude, King Blue, Chestnut, Navy Medium-high
Harmony 899 kr Everyday wear, versatility Black, Navy, Dusty Green, Silky Blue Medium
Valencia 899 kr High waist, structure and shape Black, Navy, King Blue, Chestnut High
Grace 899 kr Delicate details, feminine design Black, Nude, Silky Blue, Dusty Green Medium
Vitality 925 kr Active use, sport and swimming Black, Navy, King Blue High + sport-optimized

All styles include standard pads and can be upgraded with Light Push-Up or Super Push-Up pads for 49 kr per pair.

How to care for your shaping swimsuit

A MAYAS swimsuit will last a long time if you treat it properly. Here are our best tips for long-term care:

Washing

Rinse your swimsuit in cold water after every trip to the ocean or pool. This removes chlorine, salt, and sand. Hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild soap — avoid harsh detergents or bleach. Rinse thoroughly.

Drying

Press out the water with a towel (do not wring) and hang to air dry completely away from direct sunlight and heat. There is no need to use a tumble dryer.

Storage

Store in a dark, dry place. Some customers keep their MAYAS swimsuits in a cloth bag to protect them from dust and sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a shaping swimsuit and a regular swimsuit?
A shaping swimsuit features a compression insert (shapewear panel) that sculpts and supports the stomach and waist. A regular swimsuit does not have this panel. MAYAS swimsuits also come with interchangeable pads in three levels, so you can fully personalize the lift to suit your needs.
Do shaping swimsuits work for a larger bust?
Yes! Aurora and Vitality are specifically designed to provide extra bust support. Both styles feature a wide, comfortable bra construction and interchangeable pads that add lift and shape. The size range runs from XS to XXL, so there is something for everyone.
How much do MAYAS shaping swimsuits cost?
Most MAYAS styles (Aurora, Celestia, Harmony, Valencia, Grace) are priced at 899 kr. Vitality costs 925 kr and is optimized for sport. Interchangeable pads (Light Push-Up and Super Push-Up) cost 49 kr per pair.
Can I swap the pads in MAYAS swimsuits?
Yes, that's the whole point! Every MAYAS swimsuit has a dedicated bra channel where you can easily switch between the standard pads (included) and Light Push-Up or Super Push-Up pads (49 kr per pair). It takes three seconds.
Are shaping swimsuits comfortable to swim in?
Absolutely! The shapewear panel in MAYAS swimsuits is designed to be stretchy and flexible. You can swim, run along the beach, and enjoy the water without any issues. The material is also quick-drying and resistant to chlorine.
Which MAYAS style offers the best shaping?
Aurora and Valencia offer the highest level of shaping thanks to their design details. Aurora provides bust support plus waist definition; Valencia's high waist naturally defines the stomach. If you prefer medium shaping, go for Harmony or Grace.
What is OEKO-TEX 100?
OEKO-TEX 100 is an international certification that confirms the fabric has been tested for harmful chemicals and is safe for your skin. All MAYAS swimsuits carry this certification, so you can be confident you are getting quality.
Can a swimsuit be worn as a top in everyday life?
Yes! Many MAYAS customers wear their swimsuits as a stylish top paired with shorts or linen trousers. With their beautiful design and high quality, they transition effortlessly from beach to brunch. Valencia and Aurora are particularly chic worn this way.

Ready to find your shaping swimsuit?

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