House On The Crescent

PQ Swim Review: Is This Luxe Beachwear Worth the Splurge?

PQ Swim Featured Image

Let’s face it—swimwear shopping can feel like a risky gamble. You’re looking for something that flatters your figure, holds up against the waves, doesn’t dig in or slip, and simply feels good in. When a brand like PQ Swim promises all of that with effortless elegance, it’s hard not to stand out.

PQ Swim, formerly known as PilyQ, is a luxury swimwear brand based in San Diego. Its designs are frequently seen on fashion influencers, Tulum vacationers, and Instagram sunbathers. But the real question is: Are these suits worth the price?

After testing a selection of PQ Swim’s most talked-about pieces—from its iconic lace one-pieces to its ruffled bikinis and flowing cover-ups—here’s everything you need to know before adding anything to your cart.

🧵 About PQ Swim: A Quick Brand Overview

PQ Swim is known for its European-inspired silhouettes, flattering cuts, and a strong focus on detailed designs like lace trims, fringe details, and textured fabrics. The brand is committed to creating swimwear and resortwear that makes women feel confident, sexy, and self-assured—without sacrificing comfort.

They manufacture their pieces in Colombia and emphasize ethical production and high-quality craftsmanship. They recently introduced eco-friendly swimwear made from recycled fabrics.

🌿 Key Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

  • + Stunning, unique designs with luxe details
  • + Comfortable, high-quality fabrics
  • + Eco-conscious fabric options available
  • + Flattering fits and adjustable styles
  • + Resort-ready cover-ups & accessories

✘ Cons

  • Premium pricing may not fit all budgets
  • Limited coverage options for modest tastes
  • Some tops lack support for larger busts
  • Lace styles require delicate care
  • No lifetime warranty offered

👙 PQ Swim Product Review: Spotlight on Their Most Flattering, Luxe Beachwear Pieces

PQ Swim promises sophisticated silhouettes and high-quality fabrics – but do its most popular models actually live up to their promise? We’ve put the season’s latest swimwear collection – from ruffled bikini bottoms to figure-hugging one-pieces – through their paces. Below, you’ll find a sober analysis of each item in everyday wear.

Whether you’re packing for a summer vacation or just looking to spice up your beach experience, here’s what you should know about these six PQ Swim pieces before you buy.

Sorbet Sylvie Halter

Sorbet Sylvie Halter

The Classic Bikini Bottom

$92.00
$64.40

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✔ Pros

  • ✔ Great for creating cleavage
  • ✔ Elegant, polished aesthetic
  • ✔ Adjustable for different torso lengths

✘ Cons

  • ✖ May not offer enough lift for D+ cups
  • ✖ No removable pads or underwire

Fit & Support: Light to medium support

Fabric: Soft stretch microfiber with elegant pleating

Design Details: Keyhole cut-out, adjustable halter ties

Rating: ★★★★☆

Review:

The Sylvie Halter is a real eye-catcher with an ultra-flattering neckline and luxurious texture. Thanks to its peek-a-boo neckline and gently ruched cups, it combines elegance with subtle sex appeal. The halter neckline ensures good support, especially for cup sizes A to C.

Mango Tango Basic Ruched Bottoms

SorbetMango Tango Basic Ruched Bottoms

Mango Tango Basic Ruched Bottoms

$72.00

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✔ Pros

  • ✔ Ultra-flattering back ruching
  • ✔ Soft, smoothing waistband
  • ✔ Mixes and matches with a variety of tops

✘ Cons

  • ✖ Color may fade slightly over time in chlorine

Coverage: Moderate to cheeky

Fabric: Ultra-soft microfiber

Fit: True to size with plenty of stretch

Rating: ★★★★★

Review:

These pants are a must-have for summer. The ruched back subtly shapes and lifts without accentuating the Brazilian cut. This makes them sexy without being too overpowering. The Mango Tango color is vibrant and complements golden skin—perfect for beach sunbathing or pool parties.

Sorbet Detail Bandeau

Sorbet Detail Bandeau

Sorbet Detail Bandeau

$96.00
$67.20

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✔ Pros

  • ✔ Chic and Instagram-worthy
  • ✔ Great paired with high-waist or ruched bottoms

✘ Cons

  • ✖ Not ideal for active beach days

Support: Light

Design: Strapless with structured front ring detail

Best For: Smaller busts, sunbathing

Rating: ★★★☆☆

Review:

The bandeau detail is visually appealing—especially when paired with the Sylvie Halter collection—but is best suited for lounging, not swimming. The ring detail in the center enhances the look, but larger cup sizes may not offer enough support or coverage.

Kelly Green Basic Ruched Bottoms

Kelly Green Basic Ruched Bottoms

Kelly Green Basic Ruched Bottoms

$72.00

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✔ Pros

  • ✔ Flattering on hips and bum
  • ✔ Pairs well with printed or solid tops
  • ✔ Great stretch retention

✘ Cons

  • ✖ May ride up slightly during activity
  • ✖ Cheeky for those wanting more modest coverage

Coverage: Cheeky

Color: Saturated jewel-tone green

Rating: ★★★★☆

Review:

The same fantastic fit as the Mango Tango, but in a deep, striking emerald green that complements many skin tones. These pants hug curves without digging in, and the color stays vibrant even after multiple wears.

Floret Strapless Ring One Piece

Floret Strapless Ring One Piece

Floret Strapless Ring One Piece

$154.00

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✔ Pros

  • ✔ Clean, sexy silhouette
  • ✔ Perfect for tan-line-free lounging
  • ✔ Beautiful finish on hardware

✘ Cons

  • ✖ No adjustable straps or padding
  • ✖ Not swim-proof for high movement or waves

Style: Bandeau one-piece with front keyhole and metal ring

Coverage: Classic-to-minimal

Best For: Lounging, pool parties

Rating: ★★★★☆

Review:

This elegant monokini and bandeau style captivates with its simple elegance. The ring detail and neckline create a dramatic look, while the structured top provides good support for smaller cup sizes. It hugs the waist and shapes beautiful curves, but offers no support for larger sizes.

Huntington Ruched One Piece

Huntington Ruched One Piece

Huntington Ruched One Piece

$164.00

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✔ Pros

  • ✔ Fantastic for bust support
  • ✔ Flattering for tummy and waist areas
  • ✔ Holds up well to salt water and chlorine

✘ Cons

  • ✖ Slightly pricier than other one-pieces
  • ✖ Color options are limited (but timeless)

Fabric: Soft ruched microfiber

Support: Medium to high

Coverage: Classic

Rating: ★★★★★

Review:

Arguably one of PQ Swim’s best one-piece designs. The ruched texture camouflages and smooths, while the square neckline provides elegant structure. The back is subtle yet flattering, and the swimsuit is a great fit for many body types. It’s both secure and stylish—an ideal swimwear staple.

🩱 Product Quality & Fabric Feel

✔️ Fabric & Texture
    • Most swimwear is made from soft microfiber or structured stretch fabrics that hug the body without constricting.
    • Eco-friendly styles are made from recycled nylon blends – the same silky feel, but more sustainable.
    • Many swimsuits feature luxurious details such as scalloped lace, braided straps, or gold hardware.
🧵 Stitching & Construction
    • The seams are clean, flat, and reinforced at stress points.
    • The lining is soft and provides optimal coverage—no itchy or thin mesh.
    • High-quality elastic that won’t dig in or lose its shape after repeated wear.

💸 Pricing & Value Breakdown

Let’s get the sticker shock out of the way.

    • Bikini tops & bottoms: $70–$100 each

    • One-piece swimsuits: $150–$180

    • Cover-ups & dresses: $120–$250

    • Matching kids’ styles: $60–$90

    • Accessories: $20–$100

Yes, that’s definitely a premium price. But when you consider the high-quality craftsmanship, tailored fit, and outstanding design, it makes more sense. Consider it an investment in a dress you’ll wear for several summers—not a fast-fashion impulse purchase.

👣 Fit & Comfort: Who Is PQ Swim Really Made For?

One of the greatest advantages of PQ Swim is the variety of fits. Whether you’re curvy, petite, have a large chest, or are on the fuller side – we have something for everyone. The range includes:

    • Full and full coverage
    • Adjustable straps, ties, and bands
    • Supportive, non-wire options
    • Stretchy ruffles that adapt to your figure

However, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. The more fashionable styles may not be suitable for particularly sophisticated women, and some styles (like the bandeaus) are clearly designed for smaller busts.

🛍️ Shopping Experience

    • Website UX: Sleek and modern, with useful filters for style, size, color, and coverage.
    • Size chart: Available and accurate, but check models’ sizes whenever possible.
    • Customer reviews: Available for most products and very helpful. Reviews often include information on fit, stretch, and color accuracy.

📦 Shipping, Returns & Warranty Policy

📦 Shipping
    • Free standard shipping on orders over $100
    • Express shipping available
    • Ships within 1-2 business days from the US.
🔁 Returns
    • 21-day return period for unworn items with intact tags and lining.
    • Return label included (US only).
    • Exchanges are available and easy to process via the online portal.
🛡️ Warranty & Support
    • No formal warranty, but PQ Swim offers responsive customer service.
    • PQ Swim is known for its quick resolution of defective items.

♻️ Sustainability Efforts

PQ Swim is committed to sustainable fashion:

    • A growing eco-friendly collection made from recycled nylon
    • Sustainable manufacturing in Colombia
    • Minimal and recyclable packaging

Although they are not completely climate-neutral or plastic-free, they are making visible progress compared to many competitors.

💬 Real Customer Feedback

This is the only swimsuit I’ve worn that made me feel like a goddess. Worth every penny.
— Sabrina M.

“PQ Swim’s lace designs are next level. I wore mine in Santorini and got compliments all day.”
— Amira F.

“Beautiful but pricey. I wish they had more padded options for bustier women.”
— Natalie G.

🏁 Final Verdict: Is PQ Swim Worth It?

If you’re looking for elegant, high-quality swimwear that feels as good as it looks, look no further than PQ Swim. These aren’t throwaway beachwear—each piece is thoughtfully designed, richly detailed, and designed to make a statement while remaining comfortable.

It’s undoubtedly a luxury. But if your definition of luxury also includes feeling confident by the pool and sipping something cold in a cover-up that doubles as an evening gown, PQ Swim might be just the thing for you.

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Ideal for luxury-minded sunseekers, fashion-forward travelers, and confident minimalists
Skip if you’re on a tight budget or need high-compression swimwear