Deny it as we may, we all share some marginal hatred of swimsuit season. I mean, what’s all the fuss about? We spend outrageous amounts of money on these skimpy, waterproof outfits and jump through hoops just to find the perfect one(s). And for what? A few months of feeling self-conscious during sunbathing sessions and backyard barbeques? The point is, we’re all self-conscious about something, perhaps the bit of weight we’ve accumulated over the cooler months or how pale we are due to a lack of vitamin D. But does that mean that you should be so terrified of these flaws that you wear a cover-up all summer long?
Of course not! The key (as we discussed earlier in the year and in many subsequent articles) is finding swimwear that flatters your shape and makes you feel confident! You may be thinking, Yeah, right. All bathing suits are the same. Well, newsflash, missy! You’re wrong! There are, in fact, various swimsuit styles that flatter certain shapes. Just keep the following suggestions in mind, and you can have all the fun in the sun humanly possible this summer—and look fabulous doing it!
Pear-shaped:
If you consider your body to have a pear-shape, look for two-pieces with girly, skirted bottoms. The free-flowing nature of the skirt coupled with its length will balance out your lower half, making it appear smaller. Another option is wearing a neon, patterned, or otherwise eye-catching top with a solid bottom in a dark color. This will draw attention to the upper portion of your body—and your tiny waist!
Curvy:
If you are well-endowed, you may feel like finding cute bikinis that actually have support is a nearly impossible task. But don’t despair! First of all, I can assure you that you’re the envy of every other girl out there. Second of all, there are options! Look for tops with underwired/thinly-padded cups and adjustable ties (Halters usually provide the most support). If you want to draw attention away from your upper half completely, choose a dark or otherwise simplistic top and a patterned bottom.
Apple-shaped:
Typically, the best swimwear options for bodies with an apple-shape are funky one-pieces that narrow the midsection of the body. So, congratulations! You can pull off a retro trend that would make the rest of us look completely and utterly ridiculous. Asymmetrical cuts and vertical color-blocking will slim your midsection while giving you the air of an all-knowing, sophisticated fashionista. Another great option is the retro, high-waisted bottoms paired with a sweetheart or V-neck halter; from polka-dots to nautical patterns, you’ll be sure to look stun with your 50s pin-up model look!
Athletic:
If you have an athletic frame, opt for pieces that add dimension to your shape—or rock the surfer look, that goes, too! Find tops that are padded and with fringe, ruffles, or other embellishments. Bows are very popular this season, which will add dimension to your shape, as well. Otherwise, go for athletic swimwear to show off that bod you worked so hard for! Sporty swimwear is very popular this summer, as well.