Hydro Chic is an online retailer started by two friends. It is run out of New Rochelle, NY and specializes in giving women a modest option to their swim and sport activities. They carry a plus size line that provides "a full range of UV protection, ultra chlorine resistant" swimwear that can also be used for activities outside the water.
Selection: At the moment Hydro Chic carries over thirty options for tops ranging from sleeveless to 3/4 quarter length sleeves in a few basic styles with different color options. For the bottoms there are over twenty-five choices from shorts, to skirts, to pants or a combination of two to choose from (mostly black or navy with color accents).Sizing: Hydro Chic's plus sizes range from 1x to 4x but not all items are available in all sizes. The best way to see what is available is to scroll down the left toolbar in the plus size section and click on your size.
Styling: Hydro Chic prides their line on being modest. You do not have to worry about your private parts being exposed while you work out. The overall look is very sporty with the addition of cute skirts with ruffles and ruching available. All tops include a swim/sports bra in specified cup size.
Pricing: Moderate to expensive. Prices for tops range from $69 to $84 and prices for bottoms range from $58 to $90.
Availability: Hydro Chic will ship worldwide. Shipping costs within the US for 1 to 2 pieces range from $9.50 to $16.50. If you live outside the U.S. an additional $20 needs to be added onto the price.
Overall Impression: The website is easy enough to search and the plus size tab is visible at the top. I wish the size search option was easier to find especially since there is such a variance of size availability for each item. Their modes of payment are not visible from the main screen or easily searchable without having to fill in all your personal information.
They offer enough of a selection for plus size customers to make a choice on at least one style for top and bottom. I have reviewed one of their tops on another site and find them to be a bit short in the larger sizes (I am 5'9") but they are a well-made option for modest sun-protection swimwear.
I love the option of being able to mix and match swim/sport wear but the price is limiting as in most cases it would be around $150 for top and bottom pieces. But if you are prone for burning on shoulders you could buy one of their swim tops to wear with your current swim bottoms. For active wear bottoms I would like to see at least one option that offered a reinforced inner thigh area for repetitive activities where the thighs rub.
The shipping rates are reasonable for U.S. shipping but the shipping costs are very high to Canada at $30+.
Overall, I look forward to seeing Hydro Chic continue to nurture their plus size line.
Disclosure: Two samples of swimwear/active wear were provided to me free of charge to review.
Visit Hydro Chic for plus size swim and active wear.
Other places to find plus size active wear.
