Let’s face it: our beach body insecurities can all too often keep us from strutting our stuff in front of that cute lifeguard on duty. But why do we do this to ourselves? We’re here to show that you can look and feel extra sexy when hitting the sand, no matter what your shape. The key is in embracing your unique body, and we know this is easier said than done. Amping up your confidence can be easy though; finding the perfectly flattering swimsuit that’ll emphasize all the right spots on your figure can work wonders—every collegiette has an inner beach goddess that’s waiting to be revealed. That’s why we searched out the most flattering and adorable suits for all shapes, sizes, and budgets!
A-Cup Collegiettes
ViX Swimwear Ruffle Triangle Bikini Top: Nordstrom, $84
ViX Swimwear Side Tie Ruffle Bikini Bottom: Nordstrom, $84
Bridget Bandeau Bikini Top: Figleaves, $21
Bridget Ring Bikini Brief: Figleaves, $18
AE Cinched Bikini Bottom: Aerie, $24.50
Floral String-Bikini in Pink Bottom, and Top: Old Navy, $19.94 each
The Madi Push-Up Bandeau Top & Matching Bottom: Victoria’s Secret, Top: $28, Bottom: $18
Having a smaller bust might sometimes make you feel not as sexy as you’d like, but we have great news for you collegiettes: consider yourselves lucky, because you can experiment with all the embellishments and fun patterns you want! Boston-based stylist Elizabeth Kamm suggests trying a bandeau-style bikini top, because they “lift your bust by increasing support from the bottom, giving a similar effect that a corset would give you to create cleavage.” When it comes to enhanced tops, you can also spring for a triangle-shaped bikini. Have as much fun as you want with ruffles, fringe, and jewels, because they add some more volume to your chest while keeping your suit fashion-forward. Bold patterns bring added attention to your top half, so feel free to experiment with different details! Padding in your tops can also help to create a little more fullness, but don’t go overboard; feeling (and looking) sexy on the beach is all about showing off your unique figure while subtly emphasizing that feminine silhouette.
Dress Your Chest
Lauren By Ralph Lauren Color Block Halter Top: Bloomingdale’s, $67
Lauren By Ralph Lauren Color Block Hipster: Bloomingdale’s, $58
Mix and Match 2-Piece Swimsuit: Target, $16 each
ELLE Polka-Dot Swim Separates: Kohl’s, $27 each
Ruched Swimsuit: Old Navy, $29.94
Being top-heavy, it can seem nearly impossible to find an on-trend swim suit that actually gives you coverage without riding up in all the wrong places. Having a fuller bust means you need more to hold everything in place, but this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fashion! V-neck one pieces are a great option for larger chests, because they show off your assets on top, but not too much. This suit style also makes your torso look even longer, bringing the focus back to you and not your boobs (hello, my eyes are up here!). Structure is key in finding the perfect suit for your larger chest, as Kamm explains: “Look for underwires and styles that feature deep V’s with wide straps. If a halter style top is worn, straps should be about one inch in width to hold everything in place.” Avoid string bikini tops, because they don’t provide nearly enough support, and no one wants to deal with accidental spillage. Instead, try thicker, sturdier straps that keep your chest in place, like this option from Lauren by Ralph Lauren. A thick band just below your bust has the same effect while emphasizing the smallest part of your torso, so it’s a win-win! Looking for support and structure in a bikini will definitely pay off; you’ll be showing off those enviable curves on the beach with sky-high confidence.
Cheeky Situation
Black Halter Bikini Top & Foldover Bikini Bottom: American Eagle, $20 each
Tankini with Zebra Detail: White House Black Market, $52
Bikini Bottom with Zebra Detail: White House Black Market, $44
Retro Ring Top: Gap, $35
Retro Drawstring Bikini: Gap, $36.95
Apt. 9 Geometric Swim Separates: Kohl’s, $25-$28
There’s no reason you should try to hide that great butt of yours; your ideal suit is one that flatters those extra curves. The best way to keep things in place on your lower half is by rocking bikini bottoms with a fold-over band. They’re not only functional for your figure but also seriously cute for some poolside flirting. The thicker side support keeps your cheeks in check while giving them an extra lift. You might also have to choose different sizes for your top and bottom, so look for suits that are sold as separates. Color blocking is one of the chicest trends this year, and bathing suits are the perfect way to bring this statement into summer! Stick with a dark bottom and lighter top so the focus is on your overall fabulous shape, not just your booty. Patterns are another great way to flatter your bottom half, because they smooth everything out, instantly giving you an even hotter behind.
[pagebreak]
Sporty and Sexy
Bandeau-style Swimsuit: H&M, $24.95
Bandeau Bikini Top and Tieside Pants: Topshop, $40
Keyhole Monokini Swimsuit: Target, $25
Mini Delicious Apple Underwire Top: J. Crew, $52
Mini Delicious Apple Boy Short: J. Crew, $48
Having a lean, athletic body is super sexy and we’re here to show you that it’s super feminine, too. The key is in highlighting your small waist and toned limbs. Cute details like ruffles and ruching around your chest will emphasize your pair while adding some softness to your look. When choosing a bikini top, a simple bandeau style with a halter strap brings the perfect amount of attention to your bust while showing off those toned shoulders. Tankinis and monokinis with cutaway details help draw in your already small waist, giving you the chance to see the contour of your body! Just stick with the classically feminine details, and you’ll feel like a girly beach goddess in no time.
Curvy and Chic
Halter Top Swimsuit: H&M, $24.95
AE Bandeau One-Piece: American Eagle, $39.50
Women’s Control Max Tab-Back Swimsuit: Old Navy, $44.94
Ditsy Sun Shirred One Piece: Roxy, $82
For all you fuller-figured collegiettes, your curves-in-all-the-right-places body is sexy and powerful. It can still be tough to find swimwear that’ll also fit correctly, though. In order to show off that hourglass silhouette, choose one-pieces that have “ruching, shirred, or bandage designs that accentuate a tiny waist,” Kamm advises, and a v-neck suit will flatter your chest while keeping it in place. Keep it fun by experimenting with different patterns like this suit from Roxy, but steer clear of ones that will shorten your torso, like horizontal stripes. Trust us: with these styles, you’ll be oozing femininity, and nothing is more irresistible than that. With a healthy dose of confidence, you can own anything!
Tankinis for Tummies
Bathing Beauty One Piece in Red: ModCloth, $90
Ruched Tankini: Delia’s, $29.50
Foldover Hipster Bottoms: Delia’s, $29.50
Women’s Plus Ruffle Swimsuit: Old Navy, $54.94
Mossimo Womens Plus-Size Two-Piece: Target, $23-$27 each
Tankinis and one-pieces, preferably with ruching in the midsection, are your go-to suit style to camouflage any tummy troubles. This detail instantly defines your waist and brings the emphasis back to your overall shape. Tankinis are a great option because they give you the feel of a bikini while elongating your midsection. Styles with an empire waist are even better; they highlight the smallest part of your middle, right under your bust line. Don’t be afraid to rock a one-piece, either! They can be ultra chic, unlike the ones you had to wear to middle school swim practice. Just choose bandeau or deep-v necklines because they’ll accentuate your chest in the sexiest way possible.
What’s your favorite style suit for your shape? Share with us below!