How to Find a Flattering Swimsuit for Your Body Type
SHOP THE LOOK: Bikini Top | Bikini Bottom | Kimono
Let’s get one thing straight: the most flattering swimsuit is the one you feel confident wearing! Whether you’re rocking a string bikini, a classic one-piece, or a high-waisted two-piece, confidence will always be your best accessory. That being said, certain swimsuit styles can help highlight your favorite features, complement your natural curves, and create a flattering silhouette. From pear-shaped and hourglass figures to athletic and apple-shaped bodies, there are a few simple styling tricks that can make swimsuit shopping a whole lot easier. So, if you’re wondering which bathing suit styles work best for your body type, I’ve got you covered!
What Are the Best Swimsuits for Different Body Types?
Not sure which swimsuit style is most flattering for your body shape? You’re not alone! Between pear-shaped, hourglass, apple-shaped, and athletic figures, finding the perfect bathing suit can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are so many flattering swimsuit styles for every body type. Whether you’re looking to highlight your curves, create the appearance of a defined waist, or find a little extra support, these tips can help you narrow down your options. And remember, these are just styling suggestions, not rules. If you love a swimsuit, wear it!
Best Swimsuits for Pear-Shaped Bodies
If you have a pear-shaped body, your hips are typically wider than your shoulders, with a more defined waist. One popular styling trick is choosing swimsuits that draw attention upward while providing a comfortable fit around your hips. Flattering swimsuit styles: Ruffled bikini tops, halter necklines, bandeau tops, high-waisted bikini bottoms, and one-piece swimsuits with eye-catching details around the bust. Mixing a printed bikini top with solid-colored bottoms is another cute way to balance your proportions.
Best Swimsuits for Hourglass Figures
Hourglass figures typically have a defined waist with shoulders and hips that are similar in width. Swimsuits that follow your natural curves can beautifully highlight your shape. Flattering swimsuit styles: Wrap-style one-pieces, belted swimsuits, high-waisted bikinis, triangle bikini tops, and matching two-piece sets. Swimsuits with adjustable straps and supportive cups are also great for finding a comfortable fit.
Best Swimsuits for Apple-Shaped Bodies
Apple-shaped bodies generally carry more fullness around the midsection, often with slimmer hips and legs. If you prefer a little extra tummy coverage, look for swimsuits that offer comfortable support without feeling restrictive. Flattering swimsuit styles: Ruched one-piece swimsuits, wrap-front bathing suits, high-waisted bikinis, V-neck swimsuits, and flowy tankinis. Ruching and diagonal details can create a defined-waist effect, while adjustable styles help you find the perfect fit.
Best Swimsuits for Rectangle or Athletic Body Shapes
If your shoulders, waist, and hips are relatively similar in width, you may have a rectangle or athletic body shape. Swimsuits with playful details can help create the appearance of curves if that’s the look you’re going for. Flattering swimsuit styles: Cutout one-pieces, ruffled bikini tops, tie-side bottoms, belted swimsuits, and high-cut bikini bottoms. Bold prints, textured fabrics, and color-blocking can also add dimension to your swimwear look.
Best Swimsuits for Inverted Triangle Body Shapes
An inverted triangle body shape typically features broader shoulders and narrower hips. If you want to create a more balanced silhouette, try swimwear that adds visual interest around your hips. Flattering swimsuit styles: Scoop-neck bikini tops, supportive V-neck swimsuits, printed bikini bottoms, tie-side bikinis, and swim skirts. A simple, solid-colored top paired with patterned bottoms can be especially cute.
Best Swimsuits for Petite Women
If you’re petite, finding a swimsuit that fits your proportions comfortably can sometimes be tricky. Certain cuts can create the appearance of longer legs and a more elongated silhouette. Flattering swimsuit styles: High-cut bikini bottoms, triangle bikinis, plunging one-pieces, and swimsuits with vertical details. Adjustable straps and petite-friendly sizing can also help prevent excess fabric or awkward bunching.
Best Swimsuits for Tall Women
As a tall gal myself, I know that finding swimsuits with enough length can be a struggle! If you’re tall or have a longer torso, comfort and proper fit are especially important. Flattering swimsuit styles: Long-torso one-piece swimsuits, adjustable bikinis, high-waisted bottoms, halter tops, and mix-and-match bikini sets. Two-piece swimsuits are especially convenient because you can choose different sizes for your top and bottom.
What Are the Best Swimsuits for a Tummy?
If you’re looking for a swimsuit that provides a little extra coverage around your midsection, there are plenty of flattering options! High-waisted bikini bottoms are one of my favorite styles because they offer comfortable coverage while still giving you that cute two-piece look. One-piece swimsuits with ruching, wrap details, or a defined waist are also popular options. These designs add texture and shape while creating a comfortable, flattering fit.
Swimsuit styles to try:
- High-waisted bikini bottoms
- Ruched one-piece swimsuits
- Wrap-style bathing suits
- Tankinis with adjustable coverage
- Swimsuits with tummy-control panels
Of course, you don’t need to hide your tummy to look amazing in a swimsuit. These are simply options if you prefer a little more coverage or support!
What Swimsuits Are Most Flattering for Small Busts?
As someone with a smaller chest, I know the struggle of finding bikini tops that fit properly without awkward gaps or constantly needing adjustments. Thankfully, there are so many adorable swimsuit styles that work beautifully for smaller busts. Bandeau bikini tops, triangle bikinis, halter styles, and lightly padded tops are all great options. If you want the appearance of a fuller bust, look for details like ruching, ruffles, lace, or structured cups. Personally, nothing beats a classic black bikini. I always make sure to have one in my closet because it’s timeless, easy to style, and perfect for vacation.
What Swimsuits Are Best for Curvy Women?
If you have a curvier figure, finding a swimsuit with the right amount of support and coverage can make all the difference. Look for styles with adjustable straps, supportive underwire, wider bands, and comfortable bottoms that stay in place. High-waisted bikinis and one-piece swimsuits with defined waistlines can be especially comfortable and flattering. If you have a fuller bust, consider bikini tops with cup sizing rather than traditional small, medium, and large sizing. This can help you find a more supportive fit without sacrificing style. And remember, being curvy doesn’t mean you have to stick to one-piece swimsuits! If you love bikinis, wear the bikini. Life is too short to spend your beach vacation worrying about whether you’re showing too much skin.
What Are the Best Swimsuits for Tall Women?
At 5’10”, I know that shopping for swimsuits as a tall girl comes with its own challenges. Sometimes one-piece bathing suits simply aren’t long enough in the torso, and bikini bottoms can sit differently than expected. If you’re tall or have a longer torso, look for swimsuits specifically designed with extra length. Adjustable straps and two-piece bikinis can also make finding the right fit easier. Personally, I love bikini sets because I can choose different sizes for my top and bottom. Mixing and matching pieces makes it much easier to find something that fits my proportions comfortably.
I selected the Midi Bandeau Bikini Top for a fun and flirty look. This structured bandeau top matches perfectly with Target’s Strappy Hipster Bottom. To complete the look, I paired the bikini with my White Crochet Cocoon Shawl and Oversized Floppy Hat. This outfit is perfect for a pool party, and allows me to feel confident and carefree.
Thank you to Target for sponsoring this post! As usual, all opinions are my own.
