Choosing the perfect swimsuit can feel like an overwhelming task. With so many styles and options available, how do you find the one that flatters your body the most? In this guide, I’ll share some tips and tricks that have helped me find the best swimsuit styles for my body shape. According to a 2022 survey, 67% of women struggle with selecting the right swimsuit. I¡¯ve been there, but with a little know-how, you can find a swimsuit that makes you feel amazing.
What Is Your Body Shape?
Understanding your body shape is the first step in finding the perfect swimsuit. There are five main body shapes: pear, inverted triangle, apple, rectangle (also known as athletic), and hourglass. Knowing your body shape helps narrow down styles that enhance your best features.
How to Measure Yourself for Your Swimsuit
Accurate measurements ensure a perfect fit. Here¡¯s how to measure each key area:
How to Measure Your Torso for a Swimsuit
Measure from the top of your shoulder, down the front, through your legs, and back up to the starting point. This gives you the torso measurement necessary for one-piece swimsuits. According to industry experts, 80% of fit issues are due to incorrect torso measurements.
Measure Your Shoulders
Wrap the measuring tape around the broadest part of your shoulders to get an accurate measurement. Shoulder measurements are crucial for determining your body shape and picking the right swimsuit style.
Measure Your Bust for a Swimsuit
Measure around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape is level all around. This helps in selecting swimsuits that provide the right amount of support and coverage.
Measure Your Waist for a Swimsuit
Find the narrowest part of your waist, usually just above the belly button, and measure around it. Knowing your waist measurement helps in choosing high-waisted styles or designs that can accentuate your waistline.
Measure Your Hips for a Swimsuit
Measure around the fullest part of your hips, making sure the tape is level and snug. Hip measurements are essential for swimwear, as 70% of women prefer styles that provide adequate hip coverage.
What to Do with the Measurements
Use these measurements to consult size charts provided by swimsuit brands. This ensures a better fit when shopping online or in stores. Always check customer reviews for real-life fitting experiences.
Choose Swimwear According to Your Body Shape
Now that you know your body shape and have your measurements, let’s explore the best swimsuit styles for each shape. Using the keyword “what swimsuit style is best for my body” can guide you to more personalized recommendations online.
Pear Body Shape: Hip Measurements > Shoulder Measurements
If your hips are wider than your shoulders, you have a pear-shaped body. 34% of women fall into this category.
Swimwear for Pear Shaped Bodies
For pear-shaped bodies, opt for swimsuits that highlight your upper body. Ruffled or embellished tops draw attention upwards.
Pear Shape Swimsuit Recommendations
- Bikinis with patterned or bright tops and darker bottoms to balance the figure.
- One-piece suits with plunging necklines or detailed tops to enhance your bust.
- High-cut bottoms to elongate the legs and create a more balanced look.
Inverted Triangle Body Shape: Shoulder Measurements > Hip Measurements
If your shoulders are broader than your hips, you have an inverted triangle shape. This is common among athletic women.
Swimwear for Inverted Triangle Body Shape
Balance your broader shoulders with swimsuits that add volume to your hips.
Inverted Triangle Swimsuit Recommendations
- Bottoms with ruffles, skirts, or patterns to add volume to the lower body.
- Halter tops that provide support and create a balanced look.
- One-piece suits with cut-outs or designs at the hips to create an illusion of width.
Apple Body Shape: Shoulder Measurements > Hip Measurements
If you carry more weight around your midsection with slimmer legs, you have an apple shape.
Swimwear for Apple Shaped Bodies
Choose swimsuits that define your waist and provide support for your bust. Many women with apple shapes prefer tankinis for their flexibility.
Apple Body Shape Swimsuit Recommendations
- Empire waist or high-waisted swimsuits to define the waist.
- V-neck tops to elongate the torso and draw attention upwards.
- Tankinis with supportive tops and flowing bottoms for a balanced look.
Rectangle Body Shape: Shoulder Measurements = Hip Measurements
If your shoulder and hip measurements are roughly equal and you have a less defined waist, you have a rectangle or athletic body shape.
Swimwear for Rectangle Body Shape
Add curves with swimsuits that have ruffles, padding, or patterns. Approximately 18% of women have this body shape.
Rectangle Body Swimsuit Recommendations
- Bikinis with ruffled tops and bottoms to add volume.
- One-piece suits with cut-outs or belts to create a waistline illusion.
- Padded or push-up tops for added volume and curves.
Athletic Body Shape: Shoulder Measurements = Hip Measurements
Athletic body types are similar to rectangles but with a more toned appearance. These women often have a balanced shoulder-hip ratio.
Swimwear for Athletic Body Types
Highlight your toned physique with sleek and sporty swimsuits.
Athletic Body Swimsuit Recommendations
- Sporty bikinis with high-cut bottoms to showcase your legs.
- One-piece suits with bold colors and designs to highlight your shape.
- Strappy or detailed tops to add a touch of femininity.
Hourglass Body Shape: Shoulder Measurements = Hip Measurements
If your shoulders and hips are balanced with a well-defined waist, you have an hourglass shape. You¡¯re among the 8% of women with this shape.
Swimwear for Hourglass Body Shape
Show off your curves with well-fitted and supportive swimsuits. This shape is often seen as ideal for swimwear.
Hourglass Shape Swimsuit Recommendations
- Structured bikinis with underwire or support to enhance your bust.
- One-piece suits with defined waists and ample coverage for a smooth look.
- High-waisted bottoms to accentuate the waist and your hourglass figure.
General Tips for All Body Types
The Perfect Swimsuit For You Will Give You Confidence and Comfort
No matter your body shape, the perfect swimsuit should make you feel confident and comfortable. According to fashion experts, 59% of women feel more confident in swimsuits that fit well and highlight their favorite features. Always choose styles that you love and that make you feel great.
FAQ
What bathing suit would look best on me?
The best bathing suit for you is one that fits well, highlights your best features, and makes you feel confident and comfortable.
How to choose swimsuit style?
Choose a swimsuit style based on your body shape, personal preferences, and the level of support and coverage you need.
What swimwear best suits my skin tone?
Swimwear in colors that contrast with your skin tone will make you stand out. Darker colors for fair skin and bright colors for darker skin tones work well.
How to choose a bathing suit for a big stomach?
High-waisted bottoms, ruching, and tummy control panels can help provide a flattering and comfortable fit.