Calia Swimwear Review
Calia swimwear, the activewear line originally co-founded by Carrie Underwood, has become a go-to brand for women seeking swimwear that blends fashion, function, and comfort. Designed with real bodies and active lifestyles in mind, Calia offers a wide range of swim styles—from sporty one-pieces to trendy high-waisted bikinis. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the features, pros and cons, fit, quality, and overall performance of Calia swimwear to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your summer wardrobe.
Key Features of Calia Swimwear
Calia swimwear is designed for versatility, whether you’re lounging poolside, swimming laps, or hitting the beach for a game of volleyball. Key features include:
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Inclusive Sizing: Available in sizes XS to 3X in most styles
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Fabric: Nylon-spandex blend with stretch and shape retention
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Design Variety: Bikinis, tankinis, one-pieces, and rash guards
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Chlorine-Resistant: Durable material holds up in chlorinated pools
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UPF Protection: Built-in UPF 50+ in most pieces for sun safety
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Removable Cups: Most tops include removable or built-in bra cups
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Lining: Full lining in all suits for coverage and comfort
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Mix-and-Match: Separates allow for personalized style combinations
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Style Elements: Ruching, mesh panels, high necks, and cutouts
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Eco-Friendly Options: Select suits made from recycled materials
From supportive swim tops to flattering bottoms, Calia offers something for every body type and style preference.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes Calia swimwear stand out—and where it may fall short:
Pros:
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Wide range of trendy and modest styles
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Supportive tops great for active movement
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High-quality materials that resist fading and sagging
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Inclusive sizing ensures a better fit for more women
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Built-in UPF 50+ for added sun protection
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Mix-and-match flexibility with separate tops and bottoms
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Many suits offer tummy control and shaping panels
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Thoughtful design elements (ruching, mesh, etc.) enhance curves
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Quick-drying fabric ideal for beach-to-street wear
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Select eco-conscious styles made from recycled fabrics
Cons:
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Prices slightly higher than average ($40–$70 per piece)
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Limited availability outside of select retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Some styles may run small—checking the size chart is a must
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Not all tops offer adjustable straps
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Fewer options for larger bust support compared to specialty swim brands
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Some suits may stretch after multiple seasons of heavy use
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Print patterns can vary slightly between shipments
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Returns are not always free depending on the retailer
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No built-in shelf bras in some minimalist styles
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Limited swimwear-specific accessories (e.g., cover-ups or swim skirts)
Ideal for Active Women and Casual Swimmers
Calia swimwear is ideal for women who want stylish yet functional swim options that they can move in—whether that’s for swimming, paddleboarding, beach yoga, or simply relaxing. The designs range from sleek and sporty to feminine and flattering, with something to suit all ages and activity levels.
With thoughtful construction and coverage, Calia suits are especially popular with moms, athletes, and women looking for reliable beachwear that doesn’t compromise on confidence or comfort.
Fit, Comfort, and Sizing
One of Calia’s biggest strengths is its commitment to inclusive sizing and flattering fits. Many suits feature tummy control, adjustable straps, built-in bust support, and higher waistbands for comfort and confidence. The nylon-spandex fabric blend provides ample stretch while holding its shape, making the suits easy to wear and swim in.
Most users recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes, especially in bottoms or one-piece suits. Top support varies by style—halter necks and high-neck designs typically offer more security than bandeau tops.
Durability and Fabric Quality
Calia swimwear is known for its fabric quality, especially for a fashion-forward brand. The material feels thick and luxe without being too heavy. The suits resist chlorine damage, saltwater fading, and sagging from repeated use—though it’s always a good idea to rinse after swimming to maintain fabric life.
The color retention is excellent, and many suits still look fresh after a season or two of wear, making them a strong investment for women who want long-lasting swimwear.
Design and Style Options
Calia offers a wide range of swimwear styles designed to flatter different body shapes. Some of the most popular styles include:
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One-Piece Swimsuits: With cutouts, mesh panels, or sleek silhouettes
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Bikini Tops: High-neck, underwire, halter, bandeau, and wrap styles
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Bikini Bottoms: High-waisted, hipster, and ruched-side options
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Tankinis and Swim Tops: Modest coverage with built-in support
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Rash Guards: Lightweight UPF tops for sun-sensitive users
Color choices vary by season, but typically include solids, florals, and geometric prints. Many of the designs are sophisticated and timeless, making them suitable for both young women and more mature wearers.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Options
Calia has made steps toward sustainability by offering select swim pieces made from recycled materials. While not the majority of the line, these eco-conscious options are a welcome addition for customers looking to make more environmentally friendly fashion choices.
Look for items labeled with “eco” or “recycled” in the product description to identify these pieces.
Price and Value
Calia swimwear generally ranges from $40 to $70 per piece. While this is higher than fast-fashion swim brands, the quality, durability, and thoughtful design justify the cost for many users. Sales are frequent during off-season months or at major retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Considering the longevity of the fabric and the flattering, confidence-boosting designs, most buyers feel the value matches the price point.
Final Thoughts on Calia Swimwear
Calia swimwear strikes a smart balance between fashion and function. It’s a standout choice for women looking for swimwear that fits well, stays put, and looks good doing it. With a wide variety of styles, inclusive sizing, and performance-minded design, Calia has earned its place as a trusted name in the swimwear space.
If you’re in the market for swimwear that you can move in and feel great wearing, Calia is absolutely worth considering. Whether you’re an athlete, a mom, or just someone who wants a stylish suit that lasts, Calia offers a refreshing take on modern swim fashion.