How to Shop for Flattering Swimwear That Isn't Wearing You
Swimsuit season is upon us and this year you don’t have to settle for the same old suit. Regardless of age, you can go with something that has a little more style. Think about choosing a suit that mimics the classic style that you usually choose for your clothes because you know it flatters your figure. Then add in a little bit of flare with a touch of a bolder cut, color or print in just the right places!
If you’re curvy at the hips and thighs with a smaller bust…
Swimsuits that enhance/show off your slim shoulders and bust are a perfect choice. A two-piece option allows you to choose bottoms and tops separately for a perfect fit— and many have different cuts available for the tops or bottoms allowing you to choose your most flattering cut. A higher cut on the leg will elongate and slim legs. A high-waisted bottom elongates and slims your curves while providing perfect coverage.
For tops choose a true halter or square neckline to visually broaden shoulders creating balance with the hips. An eye-catching pattern on top draws the eye to your upper half. Some ruffles or ruching enhance a smaller bust as will any top with a bit of push-up or padding! If you’re looking for something a bit more daring, plunging necklines accentuate and flatter a smaller bust, but still provide plenty of coverage where you need it most.
If you’re straight up and down with fewer curves…
Less coverage will accentuate the curves you have. Side cuts (or color blocking) in particular create a slimming effect through the waist by showing off skin at the side and visually creating a waist. Or try choosing suits with embellishments or color drawn across the waist. A high waisted bottom naturally helps to define a waist and create curves, While a boy short will accentuate the hips and add some curves.
For tops, create shape by choosing bold prints, ruffles, and embellishments around the bust or opt for pushup or padded styles. A wide or off the shoulder look will also broaden shoulders and enhance the inward curve of the waist.
Colorblocking is our favorite way to highlight our shape!
If you’re balanced and curvy throughout…
Classic two piece suits look great on this shape. If you want more coverage than a regular bikini but still want it to be two pieces, look for high waisted bottoms and underwire tops with solid straps for the support and coverage you want. Or opt for a boxy halter tops. This gives you the coverage that you’re looking for and keeps your swim look more current.
V-neck and wrap on the top flatter the waist while also breaking up a larger bust avoiding a boxy look. A higher cut on the leg will elongate and soften curves through the hip.
If you want to camouflage a tummy…
Tops styles that broaden the shoulder will always conversely make your waist more defined. True halter tops or wide necklines like boatneck or off the shoulder are great choices. A beautiful neckline like sweetheart draws the eye to the upper body and balances the silhouette. Subtle angled ruching at the waist or empire waist can subtly shape a waist. Or opt for a top style that nips in below the bust and flare slightly on the way down.
Shopping for swimsuits online can be challenging when you don’t know how the cuts and styles will look on your silhouette. Shopping in-store can also be disappointing when you try on unflattering styles that don’t flaunt your beautiful shape. After a consultation with our stylists, we’ll make swimsuit shopping easier (and fun!) by providing you with options you will love to try on featuring the best colors, trends, and styles for your beach body.