Size 18 vs. 18W?

Is there a difference between an 18 regular and an 18W? I'm wanting to buy a swimsuit that comes in either an 18 or an 18W(online, so I can't try it on). The 18W costs $5 more. Does anyone know if there is a difference? I still have proportionally large boobies and hips, so if the 18W really is more generously cut or something like that, it will be worth spending more for it. Thanks! ---- Leslie 282/205/135

an 18w is a little bigger, i can wear a 16 but a 16w is to baggy

Yes, just as there are differences in petite and tall sizes, there are differences in regular and women's sizes. You'll need to check size charts carefully before ordering on-line. I find that the size charts are very different for each manufacturer, so be careful. Be prepared to have to return an item if it doesn't fit correctly, and then watch out for additional shipping charges and return fees. Best to try on clothes in stores while you're losing weight so fast! Good luck shopping! ~Laura

I do greatly prefer to try on and buy things in the store now, but have not been able to find the kind of swimsuit I want anywhere but online. I'm sure in a couple of months they'll start to turn up, but they're not there yet since it's still out of season. I'm being very picky about the style of swimsuit because of my very vigorous water aerobics class. I need something with a full underwire bra built in because I need the support, and no skirt because the extra fabric gets in the way. I'm going to take my best shot on the size, erring on the side of too small. If it doesn't fit now, it should fit soon! I actually have a brand-new size 18 swimsuit onhand right now, but figured out really quickly that I couldn't do water aerobics with just a little shelf bra. Too well-endowed and saggy up top to be comfortable without the support of a built-in underwire. Someone suggested wearing a sports bra under my swimsuit, but it seems like that would look weird. I'll do it if I have to, though. Thanks for the reply! Based on what you guys have told me, I'm going to stick to 'W' sizes for now. ---- Leslie