Marisa Anziano
Well, that dreaded time of year is fast approaching for many of us: bathing suit season. Whether you are on hunt for something a little more flattering or you are just looking to try something new, this is the article for you. Bathing suit shopping and bathing suit season in general can be two of those most infuriating and sometimes depressing things a girl goes through. After compiling some research together, I am proud to present a few tips and tricks to use when picking the perfect bathing suit for your body type.
If you are smaller on top, I suggest looking for bathing suit tops with a touch of padding or underwire that will make the most of your bust line. Try to find tops with adjustable straps at the shoulders and even around the back so that you can adjust things if need be. Accentuate your body type by picking out cute, ruffled or similarly decorated tops. Opt for purchasing tops and bottoms separately instead of a set. Avoid tops with too much fabric or are too unstructured.
If you are larger on top, extra support is a must so once again look for underwire tops that will make you feel comfortable and secure. Halter-tops are recommended because they offer support while showing off your best assets. Wider shoulder straps will provide added comfort and security. Avoid strapless, bandeaus, or tiny tops that offer minimal coverage.
If you have a longer body type, you can get away with lots of embellishments at the hips and the bust. Horizontal striped tops and bright colors are highly suggested. If you’re in the market for a one-piece, try one with cut-outs. It will break up your longer torso, just like a bikini but with a touch more coverage. Avoid vertical stripes, dark and solid colors, and high necklines.
If you have a shorter torso or legs, highlight your figure by finding a suit cut high on the thigh. This will elongate the legs. Remember, vertical strips can create the allusion of lengthening the body. Solid bottoms with a printed top draw the eye upward and give you a longer appearance. Solid one-pieces create a continual, long look.
If you want to look curvier, wear a one-piece with a high cut on the thigh. A cinched in or belted waistline shapes your waist. Gravitate towards bikinis if you are comfortable or confident enough. Add some illusion at the hips with ruffles, bows, and more. Dark, solid colored bottoms and wild tops create the appearance of curves. Avoid solid colored or horizontally striped one-pieces though.
If you are plus size or fuller figured, look for one-piece swimsuits with lace or mesh detailing. A purposefully place cut-out or deep v-neck can alter your visual image. Lengthen the thigh with “ruched” details at the hips. Sarongs can give you added glamour and confidence. As you might have guessed, darker colors are more flattering. Avoid too much fabric and bright neon colors. Modesty is certainly valued but being too covered up isn’t necessarily better. If you are self conscious about your midsection, try a control panel swimsuit. Tankinis are a really great option because they provide just enough coverage while still being hip. Some minor draping around the waist or hips also helps conceal any imperfections or insecurities.
No matter what your body type or confidence level, I promise you that your perfect bathing suit exists. As difficult as I know it is, try not to stress out about shopping for bathing suits. At the end of the day as long as you feel confident, you will not only look but feel great as well. Bathing suits can be found in practically any store these days so the options are endless. Happy bathing suit shopping, ladies!
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