How to Choose the Most Flattering Swimsuits for Your Body Type

Summer is soon approaching and that means it’s time for a new swimsuit.

Let’s face it, shopping for a new bathing suit is not top of most girls’ list of fun things to do.

Knowing your body type and what swimsuit flatters your figure makes this shopping task less daunting and prevents you from trying on ill-fitting styles.

Here are my tips for trying on swimsuits according to your body type.

Best Swimsuits for Apple Shaped

If your trouble area is your tummy, then you probably have an apple body type. Apple shapes tend to gain weight first in their tummies, have broader shoulders, and toned, lean legs.

To minimize the tummy, be sure to pick a swimsuit that cinches in at the waist with fabric or even a belt. Examples are pleated bandeau maillot, a one piece with shirred panel, or a black print number with super tummy control panel.

Pleated Bandeau Maillot, Shirred Panel 1 Piece, Flower Surplice Tank

When choosing a two-piece, go for tankinis that also cover the stomach. Don’t forget to show off those fabulous legs!

• Best Swimsuits for Apple Shaped Body Type

Best Swimsuits for Pear Shaped

If you have narrow shoulders, small waist, and wider hips, you are probably pear shaped. To show off your tiny waist, avoid one-pieces as they tend to shorten the waist and make the hips look bigger. Choose two-pieces where the attention and details are on the top half.

Whether a loud print, bold color or  ruffles, wear these enhancements on the top half and keep the bottom half simple. This way, the eye is drawn to the top half of the body and you can show off your toned shoulders and tiny waist.

Crossover Swim Dress, Indigo Boyleg Maillot, Seaview Boyleg Maillot

However, if you do decide to go for a one piece, look for something with striking detailing on top. Details such as crossover style on top, halter and bowed cup top, or interesting patterns on top will always look flattering on you.

Best Swimsuits for Boyish Shaped

If you have narrow hips and an undefined waist, you are probably boyish-shaped. These types of figures are the most versatile when it comes to swimsuits, however, you want to find one that add curves and defines your waistline. Go for bold print bandeau bikinis that will create the illusion of curves.

Horizontal stripes will also create curves while two-pieces with higher waistlines will help define the waist.

V-Plunge Swimsuit, Plum Swimsuit, Spot One Piece

Having a straight figure requires you to look for swimsuits that give an illusion of a narrow waist and some curves. Go for a belted one piece with deep V-neck, a wrap style ruffle detailed one piece featuring a scooped back, or a colorblocked retro one piece with slim contrast belt.

See How to Look Fabulous in Swimsuit with Color and Details

Best Swimsuits for Smaller Busts

If your bust is on the small side, there are many swimsuits with padding and ruffles that will help make the bust look bigger. Adding ruffles or more fabric to the top half of bikinis will add bulk and even out your figure. Also, look for bikini tops that have padding and under-wire which will lift the bust to appear bigger.

Take advantage of this season´s swimsuit trends—the stripes, floral bandeaus, and polka dots. The print will add volume to your bust area while paddings and underwire support will give more shape.

Stripe Swim Top, Green Pleated Bustier, Green Pleated Hipster
Bow Bra Top, Women’s Shirred Brief

Best Swimsuits for Larger Busts

If you have a larger bustline, I’ve got one word for you: Support. Many bikini tops and one-pieces don’t include the necessary tools to keep “the girls” in. Look for bikini tops that offer support such as underwire as well as full coverage (to avoid side cleavage). Keep tops simple to not draw more attention and be sure to buy the right size.

Look for bandeau tankinis or one piece swimsuits with built-in cup construction with shelf bra for good support. If you´re going for a two-piece, cup halter tops are the most comfy and gorgeous bikini top for you.

Bandeau Tankini, Pleat Front One Piece, Cup Halter Top, Skirted Pant

See Fashion Tips for Hourglass Body Type

Best Swimsuits for Petite

You have a “petite” figure if you are less than 5’5” tall and are either slender or curvy. Look for swim wear that elongates your legs, like high waist bottoms. Any kind of top will fit this type of silhouette.

Best Swimsuits for Plus size

You have a “plus size” figure if you are curvy or have large breasts, large hips and a big tummy. The best swimsuits for you are those that conceal the flab yet emphasize the curves, like tankinis or laced and V-neckline one-piece suits. Dark colored swim wear is highly preferred.

Best Swimsuits for Short legs

You have a “short legs” figure if you have a long body and short legs. The best swimsuits for you are those with high cuts on the thighs and with vertical stripes. This design helps elongate the legs. Skip the skirted bikinis and boy shorts.

Best Swimsuits for Long legs

You have a “long legs” figure if you have a short torso and long legs. Look for swimsuits that emphasize your bust line and hip, like ruffled and jewel-designed tops, boy shorts or skirted bikinis.

Best Swimsuits for Heavy Bottom

If your hips are wider that your waist and bust line then you have a large bottom. Mini-skirted bikinis and wide-strapped or horizontal neckline one-piece maillots are just the perfect swim wear for you. Never go for boy shorts or anything with too many details and near the hips.

Swimsuit shopping can be intimidating, so be sure to figure out your body type and follow the appropriate tips above. Whatever your body type may be, remember that the most attractive asset any girl can have is confidence. Be sure to wear plenty of it and you will look great!