The complete guide to shaping swimsuits
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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