Spring break is just around the corner. Now that you’ve been dieting and exercising, it’s time for that exciting moment to shop for your bikini- But with so many styles, how can you choose?!
Don’t fear, fellow USFers. Her Campus is here to offer some guidance on which suit suits your body best. You don’t have to be a Sports Illustrated model to look stunning at the beach!
Small Bust:
Small chests unite! Go for string triangular tops or bandeau tops, especially if they have a tie in the center. With the strings, you can adjust the suit to give you an extra boost. Look for busy patterns or ruffles- something that embellishes. Be careful not to have too much going on. Horizontal stripes make your breasts look fuller. If that’s still not enough oomph, check out tops with extra padding. Flaunt what you have and fake what you don’t!
Avoid too much fabric and poor fits.
Small Bottom:
You’re one of the few who can wear string bikini bottoms with little to worry about. You can also go wild with embellishments. I.e. Ruffles, rings, bows.
Avoid blah solid-colors.
Full Bust:
There’s a lot more to support here. You will need a halter top with an underwire or wide band around the midriff and wider straps. This will give you gals enough support and an opportunity to show off your sexy cleavage.
Avoid strapless tops or tops with thin straps. They offer minimal coverage and support.
Short Legs or Torso:
Look for bottoms with a high cut on the thigh. This will make your legs look longer. Vertical stripes can visually lengthen the body. Another trick is to pair a solid bottom with printed top. The attention would be drawn upward to give you a longer look. Solid one-piece suits with plunging necklines create a continual, long appearance.
Avoid boy shorts and skirted bottoms. Those draw attention downwards and can make you look shorter.
Plus Size:
You may think you need lots of fabric to cover up everything. Guess what? Too much fabric can look sloppy and not help you at all. Go for one-pieces with ruching details at the hip. This will lengthen your thighs. Your color palette includes dark or cool colors. Draping around the waist and swirling patterns will also help minimize.
Avoid too much fabric and bright or neon colors.
Long and Lean:
Go wild with embellishments at the hips and bust. Pair with boy shorts or skirted/ruffle bottoms. Be edgy and try a cut-out one-piece suit. It will break up your long torso like a bikini. It’s like it was made just for your body type!
Avoid vertical stripes and dark, solid colors.
Hide That Belly:
Sometimes mother nature gets the best of us. If you find yourself to always be bloated or just uncomfortable with your belly, then opt for a tankini. They cover up just enough to get rid of your insecurities but also show enough skin to make you feel sexy. Your one-piece suit should have draping around the waist or hips to help conceal.
Avoid solid colored one-pieces.
Large Bottom:
Play up your top to minimize your bottom. Maillot swimsuits have wide straps and a horizontal neckline. There are a variety of maillot swimsuits that are possibly the chicest, most classic swimwear out there. Look for one with a skirted bottom. Speaking of skirted bottoms, there are mini-skirted bikinis made for women like you! The skirt is short and covers what it needs to without drawing too much attention. If you want that classic bikini look, get a bikini bottom with a three-inch side.
Avoid boy shorts, skimpy bottoms, and over-detailed bottoms. Too many ruffles will draw attention in an unattractive way.
Whatever you end up buying, don’t forget to get in shape. Exercising and feeling healthy will boost your confidence, and that’s always attractive!
