Discover The Perfect Swimsuit For You!
Is there anything worse than swimsuit shopping? I don’t think so. Especially if you shop in the store and change in the fitting rooms with bad fluorescent lighting. That is soul-crushing.
I’m going to share some essential tips to help you find the right swimsuit for you and your body shape, that will fit and flatter you, and make you feel more comfortable.
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You might not fit neatly into any of these categories (below), but this guide will definitely help you get on the right track toward finding what does complement your body and have you feeling your best! Yes, it’s possible.
How to Choose the Best Swimsuit For Your Body Shape
#1 | Small Bust
To address a small bust I recommend wearing a top or a one-piece with a top that has ruffles, a print, a bold color, or embellishments like sequins, fringe, beading, etc. To build your bust, padded tops are also a great way to go.
#2 | Larger Bust
The next common area of self-consciousness in a swimsuit might be a large chest. It can be very difficult to find a suit that makes you feel secure, supportive, and comfortable, while still feeling modern and sexy. I recommend a top that comes in cup sizes, so you can pick the appropriate cup size for you. It will traditionally have an underwire, and might also be adjustable. Also, thicker straps will help you with the support that you want and need for a fuller bust. Two brands I recommend are MiracleSuit and Sea Level.
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#3 | Broad Shoulders
Another common concern when it comes to selecting a swimsuit is broad shoulders.
A halterneck style is an easy choice, as it softens the shoulders and makes it less pronounced. I’ve also found that asymmetrical necklines will help. A cap-sleeve swimsuit top is a great choice as well, if you can find it. It will also soften shoulders.
#4 | Flat Booty
When you don’t have a lot of shape in your behind, the goal is (of course) to build shape. You want to grab a swimsuit bottom that has ruching, or one that has a print or embellishment. A ruffle bottom also builds volume, similar to the small chest option. All of these options add some volume in a way that looks natural and not forced, and still very stylish.
#5 | Large Booty
If you have a bigger behind, you are going to want more coverage. This doesn’t mean overdoing it with coverage, but just to get something that covers enough to make you feel comfortable. (If you wear bottoms that have too much coverage, that can have the opposite effect and make your bum look larger.) A solid color bottom with a printed top works great as well, as the eye is drawn upwards, away from the areas you are self-conscious about.
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#6 | No Waist
Where are my fellow Spongebobs?? 😉 That’s what a troll called me and I think it’s hilarious. If you are like me and you are a rectangle body shape, there are options for you as well. I tend to prefer bikinis because I feel this makes it appear as though I have more of a waist.
Another great option is cutouts at the waist. These sharp cutouts will make the waist look more defined, and add the appearance of curves. A waist belt or any waist-defining details on your swimsuit can also create a waist.
#7 | Love Handles
If you want to conceal your sides, I would suggest a bathing suit with a high-waisted bottom. Not only is this on-trend right now, but it also covers up some areas that you are conscious about. A one-piece with built-in shapewear can help smooth lumps and bumps too!
#8 | Tummy
A tummy is, let’s face it, one of the more common problem areas, and the great news is… there are SO many options to help! Suits that cover up the tummy include the tankini, a suit with strategic ruching, any swimwear with shapewear like Miraclesuit, or a one-piece with a peplum. Another option …a faux-wrap front swimsuit!
#9 | Short Torso
What if it feels like you have no real estate between the bottom of your bust and your hips? If you are wearing a bikini, I would avoid tops with lots of fabric or straps under the bust. That will cut into that space. What you really want is this space to appear maximized so your short torso is lengthened. You can also lengthen the upper body by wearing a top that extends upwards, not downwards, like a bikini top with ruffled shoulders. Keep in mind that the same rule applies to the bottoms. If you wear a high-waisted bottom, you will cut into your torso. A lower rise bottom will create the illusion of more space.
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#10 | Short Legs
If you have shorter legs, try one of the newest trends in swimwear, the high-cut, or French-cut, bottom. This swimsuit bottom is cut high so that your legs appear longer.
#11 Wider Hips or Thighs
Fuller hips or thighs are a common concern, and there are many options out there.
Boyshorts are one option, and you’d be surprised at all the fun styles. There are many cute boyshorts that cover the hips and make you appear slimmer. Swim skirts and swims dresses are also great for minimizing the hips, butt and thighs. Additionally, I’d always go with a solid color no your lower body if you want to make your hips and butt look smaller. Prints tend to add volume.
Some Of My Favorite Brands
Some of my favorite swimwear brands especially for women over 40 include: Karla Colletto, MIRACLESUIT, L*SPACE, and La Blanca.
These are all excellent brands that are really designed for a more mature woman, but the styles are still modern and sexy! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve ordered swimsuits, only to put them on and think… where’s the REST?? LOL. You know what I mean.
You CAN Find A Flattering Suit!
I hope this guide helps you find the best swimsuit for your body shape. (If you need help figuring out your body shape, be sure to watch my video here.) I strongly suggest skipping the whole ‘fitting room nightmare’ and carefully ordering a selection based on my tips above. Try the suits on in the privacy of your home to save your sanity and be patient with the process. You WILL find the perfect suit for your body.
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