Once upon a time, I shopped for swimsuits based on the desirability of the tan lines they could impart over the course of a tropical vacation. How quaint that sounds to me now, a couple of decades and a couple of babies later.

As a parting gift from my full-term twin pregnancy, I received a lifelong separation of my abdominal muscles known as diastasis recti — more commonly known by the cringe-inducing moniker “mummy tummy.” This rounding of my stomach means my new primary criterion for selecting a suit is that it makes me feel more confident about my midsection.

Enter TA3, a swimwear line founded by WOC mom (and stone-cold fox) Leila Shams. The concept is a compression suit with a lace-up back — sort of like a corset — for a snatched look on all body types.

It’s no surprise why the brand has gone viral on social media and even had a turn on Shark Tank: It’s practically made for a video demo. Slide into the suit, and tighten the laces with a single pull — that’s when the magic happens. The midsection-cinching effect really does create an hourglass look on just about every body type upon which I’ve seen it demonstrated. (And that’s a lot of body types, because the algorithm obviously has my number.)

To buy: ta3swim.com, $178

TA3 was once the little black dress of swimsuits, with only tightly curated offerings. And indeed, the brand’s original Lacey one-piece in black may be the only one you need for season after season of versatile, durable water wardrobe. (It also works as a body suit — great with jeans, shorts, or under a blazer — so it really pulls its weight in your suitcase.)

Now, there are two additional styles: the Plungey (a deep v-neck version) and the Hi-Cut Plungey (the deep V with high-cut thighs for extra va-va-voom). And in addition to versatile black or white, the range now includes eight total color options, including vibrant orange, blue, and hot pink.

Yes, I have several TA3 styles and colors in my swim wardrobe. And yes, I pack them for literally every vacation: They make me feel confident and oh-so-chic. Plus, they’re somehow appropriate for just about every age, the perfect blend of sophistication and fun, with nary a soon-to-be-dated print or ruffle in sight.

Suits are available in sizes XS to 3X with two torso length options, regular/long and short. And in addition to the wide size range, TA3 suits have additional customizable features for a bespoke fit: Straps are fully adjustable (as are the laces in back), and a built-in shelf bra has removable pads. These suits provide a secure hold on even big busts.

While the $178 price point makes a TA3 swimsuit an investment (well, say, compared with an H&M or ASOS suit, if not compared with many other department store brands), these suits are built to last. Once you open the intoxicatingly packaged box and finger the durable, high-quality fabric, you’ll see this suit did not come to play.

Feeling daunted? No need. You can upload a couple of photos, which TA3 (doesn’t store but) uses to evaluate your best fit and suggest a size before you buy. Plus, returns are free within 30 days, so the risk is low. But I’d say the potential payoff is high: increased confidence, versatility and durability, and a custom-like fit. If you’re like me, you’ve just found your new favorite suit.

To buy: amazon.com, $34

To buy: amazon.com, $30

To buy: amazon.com, from $26

To buy: amazon.com, from $32

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