Summer is here so it’s time to bust out the bathing suits!… However, it isn’t that easy, some of us experience a lot of frustration trying to pick out the most flattering bathing suit for our figure. Have no fear, I am here to share a few helpful tips to take the stress out of shopping…
–>Small Bust??…
DO pick a swimsuit top that is either padded; has contouring features like boning, has a bold pattern or ruffles to add some “heft” to your chest!
DON’T go overboard with ruffles/extra material; there is a fine line between enhancing the appearance and trying too hard!
–>Busty??…
DO choose a bathing suit top like you would choose your bra. We know the importance of a properly fitting bra in everyday life–the same goes for your beachwear. This will give you support and keep “the girls” in place while you frolic in the sun. Suits with thicker straps are also a good choice.
DON’T choose a string bikini or choose a suit that comes in a generic size like small, medium, large, etc.
–>Narrow Shoulders??…
DO select a racerback top to make your shoulders seem wider or a suit that draws the eyes attention downward; maybe a nice V-neck or even a suit with ruffled straps.
DON’T take the (V-neck) plunge to far…you want to be comfortable in your swimwear and not constantly worrying about ‘falling out’ or constantly be re-adjusting.
–>Broad Shoulders??…
DO choose a suit with an asymmetrical neckline to divert the eyes or a suit that is solid in colour but has panels along the side for an hourglass effect.
DON’T choose a bathing suit that has a neckline or striped pattern that cuts straight across the body.
–>Flat Bottom??…
DO embrace the frills, ruffles, bright colours and funky patterns and consider a slightly “skimpier” bottom.
DON’T automatically default to super full coverage bottoms.
–>Full Booty??…
DO rock a suit that offers more coverage on the bottom (in addition to being a solid colour) but spice up the ensemble with a patterned top.
DON’T rock a string bikini or one that is high cut; trust us they ride up and you spend more time re-adjusting than having fun. Also, don’t choose a suit that has a ruffled bottom!
–>Short Torso??…
DO opt for a bathing suit that will draw the eye to your shoulders (ruffles, halter style top or asymmetrical neckline) paired with some low rise bottoms.
DON’T opt high waisted bottoms.
–>Short Legs??…
DO choose a high cut suit or dare we say a thong.
DON’T choose a suit that is cut straight across.
–>Athletic Build??…
DO go with swimsuit tops that have padded cups and come in feminine prints and/or bold colours.
DON’T go with bandeaus, boy-cut shorts or one pieces.
In addition to body shapes and sizes, there are also a few other concerns that many of us have when shopping for suits. That being said, if you are worried about….
1. The Spare Tire aka the Muffin Top aka the Love Handles (or whatever cute nickname we give it): Go with high waisted bottoms that extend past the navel.
2. Thick thighs: Go with bottoms that offer more coverage; or even suits with a skirt.
3. Back Fat: Thick straps and suits with a high back is the answer to this problem.
4. Belly Pooch: One pieces with ruching or one pieces with funky necklines will divert attention from your belly.
5. Cellulite: Tankinis can go a long way to helping you cover this up…if you so choose!
6. Scars, stretch marks, psoriasis, body acne or other skin issues: Use the variety of cuts, lengths, details and fabrics (such as mesh) available to your advantage to hide or protect these areas of your body if you want.
7. UV Protection: For those who are sun-sensitive, sun-conscious or burn easily going the long sleeved swim top route might be for you.
Based on the guide…
I would pick Tommy Bahama Pearl One-Piece swimsuit in black from Nordstrom!