Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The Mae Bottom is designed for real water time, not just Instagram poolside poses. It’s made in swim fabric intended for repeated water use, the Crossover V waistband helps keep the bottom secure without digging in, and the higher leg with a medium/high front rise delivers a balance of mobility and medium coverage so you can paddle, snorkel, or splash around comfortably. This suits active beach days, paddleboarding, casual surfing, and pool laps. If you need maximum coverage for high-impact water sports like waterskiing, you might prefer a full-coverage or sport-specific brief, but for most swims and seaside adventures the Mae is a stylish, functional choice.
The crossover V waistband gives a more flattering and secure fit by creating a gentle V-shape at the front that visually elongates the torso and reduces pressure at the waistband. Because the Mae pairs that V detail with a medium/high front rise and engineered swim fabric, it stays put during movement while still feeling comfortable at the waist. This design benefits anyone who wants a polished, tummy-friendly silhouette without committing to a full high waist. If you’re between sizes, the crossover style can feel snug at the very top of a size range, so consider sizing for your preferred waistband comfort.
Yes. The Mae Bottom is part of Carve Designs’ collection where 100% of the line is made from recycled, upcycled, or organic materials and produced without toxic chemical finishes. That means the fabric choices and manufacturing approach aim to reduce waste and exposure to harsh treatments. This is a good fit for shoppers who care about clean fashion and want elevated swim pieces with intentional material choices. If you need specific certification details or a fiber breakdown for a particular print, check the product details on the item page, since sustainability approaches can vary by fabric and print.
Hand wash cold and rinse after each use to keep the Mae Bottom looking sharp. Rinsing removes salt, chlorine, and sunscreen that break down elastics and fade prints, gentle detergent preserves stretch, and laying flat to dry away from direct sun prevents premature fading and loss of shape. Avoid bleach, hot water, machine drying, and ironing to protect the swim fabric and the Crossover V detail. Following these steps helps the elasticity and color last longer, though all swimwear will slowly show wear over time with heavy chlorine or sun exposure.
The Mae Bottom flatters many shapes, especially anyone who wants a polished, flattering look without a full high-waist. The crossover V waistband creates a cinching visual at the waist, the medium/high front rise offers tummy coverage, and the higher leg visually lengthens the silhouette while providing medium rear coverage. That makes it ideal for Mainstream Stylish Women who want effortless, versatile swimwear that reads both classic and slightly retro. If you prefer maximum rear coverage or a dramatic high-waist brief, this is less of a fit, but for balanced coverage and a chic silhouette the Mae is a strong pick.
Ratings & Reviews
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
Based on 133 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 95 Total 4 star reviews: 19 Total 3 star reviews: 9 Total 2 star reviews: 6 Total 1 star reviews: 4
86%would recommend these products
FitRated 0.1 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
Reviews Summary
Customers say these high-waisted swimsuit bottoms are extremely flattering and comfortable, with many praising the perfect fit and soft, buttery fabric. The crossover front detail and high-cut legs create an elongating, feminine silhouette that works well for various body types and ages. Users appreciate the moderate coverage that feels secure during active water sports while maintaining a stylish, slightly cheeky cut. Many mention the bottoms provide good tummy coverage without being too high-waisted. Some note sizing runs large and recommend sizing down, while a few find the back coverage too revealing for their preference.
133 reviews
  • KR
    Katherine R.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Mae Bottom: Fleur
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn MD
    Height 5'9 - 5'11
    Body Type Athletic
    Size Purchased MD
    Rated 4 out of 5 stars
    3 minutes ago
    So Flattering

    These bottoms are so flattering! Love the leg cut and v-shaped waistband. I wish they were slightly more secure - the legs ride up a little bit with movement and I catch myself trying to adjust - but it's not a full-blown wedgie situation.

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • EO
    Erin O.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Mae Bottom: Palmetto
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn LG
    Height 5'3 - 5'5
    Body Type Average
    Size Purchased LG
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 days ago
    great print!

    i have this bottom in lots of different colors, this one is so fun and looks great with the nightdive color top!!

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • EO
    Erin O.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Mae Bottom: Nightdive
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn LG
    Height 5'3 - 5'5
    Body Type Average
    Size Purchased LG
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 days ago
    Perfect Color & Fit

    I had this same bottom in a different color last year, and this one fits even better, the color is amazing too. I bought the matching top too!!!

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • CL
    Chelsi L.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Mae Bottom: Garden - FINAL SALE
    I recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn MD
    Height 5'9 - 5'11
    Body Type Hourglass
    Size Purchased MD
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    AMAZING

    I never leave reviews but this is the actual most comfortable bikini I have EVER worn.

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
  • RT
    Rebecca T.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Mae Bottom: Black
    I do not recommend this product
    Usual Size Worn MD
    Height 5' - 5'2
    Body Type Athletic
    Size Purchased MD
    Rated 2 out of 5 stars
    2 weeks ago
    Wanted to love

    Along with the top I bought, I had expectations of this suit being an active bikini but as I wore it to swim a the beach, I found myself adjusting the waist from rolling down. By the end of the day the seams were all twisted. Again, for what it cost, I expected more.

    FitRated 0.0 on a scale of minus 2 to 2
Sustainability Isn't A Feature - It's Our Foundation

When Carve Designs began in 2003, we didn't add sustainability to our checklist - we made it our core vision. That hasn't changed.

Sustainability Mission