Time to put an end to the fear, frustration + dread that comes with swimsuit shopping!
We’re breaking down the BEST FIT TIPS for EVERY body type – whether your specific problem area is your waistline or your bottom half, or maybe you’re looking for something to keep your curves under control, we’re helping to break down the BEST FIT for your BODY TYPE so you can feel GOOD lounging in the sun this summer!
REMEMBER – DON’T choose a certain style just because it’s TRENDY this season. Not every trend is flattering to every body type. You will look for more stylish if you pick a suit that’s flattering to YOU, not just what the latest new thing is in the magazines.
SO LET’S DIVE IN!
THE PEAR
You’re curvy at the hips and thighs and smaller on top, like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Jennifer Love Hewitt.
The key to the perfect swimsuit is balancing your proportions and getting the coverage you need for your bottom half.
BEST FIT TIPS:
- For a traditional fix, look for a clean-skirted bottom that falls just below the largest part of the upper leg.
- Avoid reaching for a boy short or thick-banded bottom. The extra fabric will only call attention to the area you’re trying to mask.
- A plunging neckline or eye-catching top draws the eye upward, minimizing the bottom.
Victoria’s Secret Closeup Halter ($36-41) and Forever Sexy Skirted Bottom ($37)
THE BUSTY
Ample cleavage; you’re chesty and require more support up top like Brooklyn Decker, Katy Perry, and Sofia Vergara.
If you're more well-endowed on top, then support is key. Opt for suits with underwire or molded cups to give the girls the support they need. Avoid ruffles or embellishments up top if you're hoping to minimize the focus on your chest.
BEST FIT TIPS:
- Bra-style tops with underwire and adjustable straps provide extra bust support. The thicker the strap, the more support.
- Higher backs are also a good fit for helping to keep the girls up.
- Molded cups provide extra support and are available in many different styles.
- Explore suits marked with sizing like your regular bra, including styles that go above a D, which are constructed to support a larger bust.
Tory Burch Issy Printed Underwired Bikini ($285)
THE SMALL BUST
Proportionally, you’re smaller on top with an A or B cup, like Kate Hudson.
A smaller chest requires less support, so you can look for styles with more minimal coverage or embellished detailing, bows, and patterns to create the illusion of a larger chest and balance out the proportions visually.
BEST FIT TIPS:
- Triangle tops create the illusion of curves, as do tops with bold prints or embellishments with ruffles.
- Bra tops and padded push-up tops offer extra lift and can create cleavage, as can certain halter tops.
- A smaller bust always means you can wear tiny scoop tops or bandeaus — embrace them!
Nasty Gal Vitamin A Neutra Bikini Top ($88) and Bottom ($78)
THE ATHLETIC
You’re more straight up-and-down and have fewer curves, like Cameron Diaz, Jessica Biel, and Jennifer Aniston.
The name of the game here is playing up your curves with styles that flaunt your frame. Suits with less coverage help to create the illusion of a shapelier figure, in addition to showing off your athletic + toned physique!
BEST FIT TIPS:
- Tops or bottoms with bold prints, ruffles, and embellishments add intrigue and feminine flair and can create the appearance of more curve at top and bottom.
- Monokinis create fabulous curves, as do one-pieces with slashes or strategically placed cutouts.
- The smaller the swimsuit bottom, the fuller and curvier the derriere appears.
- Tie-side bikini bottoms enhance curves and adjust perfectly to your size.
Amuse Society Stella Colorblock Triangle Bikini Top ($45) and Bottom ($44)
THE CURVY
The goal here is to accentuate the hourglass shape that curves create while keeping them under control.
Whether you prefer to be more covered up, or you're out to slim your middle, there are a number of one-piece and two-piece suits, like high-waisted or tankini styles, that help to smooth out your middle.
BEST FIT TIPS
- Tankinis are very slimming + let you show off just enough…
- Shirring works miracles. The gathered fabric hides bulges and creates definition in the waist.
- A figure-flattering surplice-wrap silhouette trims the waist with its crossover fabric.
- If you carry your weight in the lower part of your belly, try on a retro-inspired, high-waisted suit. They’re on-trend and ideal for covering the abdomen.
Anthropologie Mix-and-Match Peplum Tankini ($78)