Shopping for a bathing suit can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re standing in front of the mirror, unsure if what you’re trying on truly flatters you. Trust me, I’ve been there, and I want you to know that you’re not alone in this.
My goal with this guide on how to choose a swimsuit that works for your body type is to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to shine by the pool or at the beach.
Finding the perfect swimsuit is all about knowing your body type and picking styles that highlight your natural features.
Let’s navigate this together so that swimsuit shopping becomes less of a chore and more of a chance to celebrate your beautiful self. Whether you’re team bikini or love a good one-piece, this guide will help you discover the best swimsuits for your body type and make your next beach day a confidence-filled adventure! 🔥
Let’s learn how to choose a swimsuit that makes you feel like a million bucks, shall we?
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
How to Use This Swimsuit Guide?
To make the most of this blog post, first identify your body type from each of the 5 the descriptions below. Once you’ve pinpointed your shape, read the tips under your category to find the swimsuits that flatter you best.
For each body type, I’ve also included a section where you can browse some cute bathing suits handpicked just for your body shape.
I tried to find “budget friendly bathing suits”, but in my experience, if you want something that truly fits right, you won’t find that in a $20 bathing suit. That’s just how it is.
One of the bathing suits you’ll see in the photos below was $95, but guess what? It has lasted me 5 years, it still looks like new and makes me feel GORGEOUS! So, just know that if you spend the money once, you won’t have to keep buying bathing suits every summer 😉
That being said, let’s get to this in-depth guide on how to choose a swimsuit that works for you!
1️⃣ Triangle Body Type:
Your hips are wider than your shoulders, creating a gorgeous curve. If your body tends to carry weight in the lower half and you have a smaller upper body, this is likely your shape. Knowing how to choose a swimsuit for your shape will make shopping a lot easier!
Best Swimsuit Styles For Triangle Body Type:
👙 Bikini Tops: Look for tops with bold patterns, ruffles, or embellishments to draw the eye upward. Halter tops or bandeaus are fantastic for balancing out your proportions.
🩲 Bikini Bottoms: Stick to solid-colored, high-cut bikini bottoms to elongate your legs without adding extra volume.
🩱 One-Pieces: Asymmetrical or one-shoulder designs are your best friend! They create visual interest on the upper half of your body while keeping things sleek below.
Best Colors and Patterns For Triangle Body Types:
- Opt for bright or patterned tops paired with darker, solid bottoms.
- In general, avoid bottoms with too many frills or embellishments.
🎯 Here you can browse some cute bathing suits that will work for the triangle body types!
2️⃣ Inverted Triangle Body Type:
Your shoulders are broader than your hips, giving you a strong, athletic look. If you have a naturally wider upper body and a narrower lower half, this is your likely shape.
Finding the best swimsuits for your body type can help create a beautiful balance and make you feel a lot more confident!
Best Swimsuit Styles For Inverted Triangle Body Types:
👙 Bikini Tops: Triangle or scoop tops soften your upper body without adding bulk.
🩲 Bikini Bottoms: High-waisted or side-tie bikini bottoms can add volume to your lower half.
🩱 One-Pieces: Plunging necklines or designs with waist cutouts balance your shape.
Best Colors and Patterns For Inverted Triangle Body Types:
- Solid or minimalistic tops paired with colorful or patterned bottoms.
- Try to avoid tops with heavy embellishments.
🎯 Here you can browse some cute bathing suits that I think will work for your body type!
3️⃣ Rectangle Body Type:
Your shoulders, waist, and hips are fairly uniform, creating a straight silhouette. If you have an athletic frame without defined curves, this is your body type. Choosing flattering bathing suits for women with this body shape can add definition and more curves!
Best Swimsuit Styles for Rectangle Body Types:
👙 Bikini Tops: Tops with details like ruffles or ruching add the illusion of curves.
🩲 Bikini Bottoms: High-waisted bikini bottoms with belts or cutouts create a defined waist.
🩱 One-Pieces: Suits with side cutouts, ruching, or color-blocking add shape.
Best Colors and Patterns For Rectangle Body Type:
- Bold prints, bright colors, and playful textures.
- Avoid overly simple and minimalistic designs.
🎯 Here you can browse some cute bathing suits handpicked for your body type!
Take the Quiz: Is Your Closet Ready for a Refresh?
Got a gazillion bathing suits but feel like none of them truly work? Or maybe you’re not sure what pieces to shop for or how to begin building a wardrobe that reflects your personal style?
Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered!
Take the Closet Quiz to assess the state of your wardrobe and get personalized advice on how to purge and rebuild your closet with pieces that make you feel amazing ⭐️
It’s a fun and helpful way to start your style journey! Just answer the 7 questions below ⬇️
4️⃣ Hourglass Body Type:
Your shoulders and hips are balanced with a defined waist. If your waist is noticeably smaller than your hips and shoulders, this is your body shape.
Understanding how to choose a swimsuit that highlights your natural balance is key. You don’t want to hide your waist!
Best Swimsuit Styles for Hourglass Body Types:
👙 Bikini Tops: Classic triangle tops, underwire bras, or styles that accentuate your curves.
🩲 Bikini Bottoms: High-waisted or cheeky cuts highlight your curves beautifully.
🩱 One-Pieces: Belted, wrap styles, or deep V-necks emphasize your balanced proportions.
Best Colors & Patterns For Hourglass Body Shapes:
- Feel free to go bold with vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns. Your balanced shape makes it easy to pull them off.
- Solid, darker colors can also beautifully highlight your natural curves, especially when accented with contrasting or playful details.
🎯 Here you can browse some cute bathing suits that will work for your body type!
5️⃣ Apple Body Type:
Your waistline is wider than your hips and shoulders, creating a rounded silhouette. If you tend to carry more weight around your midsection, this is probably your shape.
Best Swimsuit Styles For Apple Body Types:
👙 Bikini Tops: Tankini tops or flowy tops that skim your midsection comfortably.
🩲 Bikini Bottoms: Mid or high-rise bottoms provide comfortable coverage and smooth your silhouette.
🩱 One-Pieces: Wrap designs around the midsection enhance your shape beautifully.
Best Colors and Patterns For You:
- Solid, darker colors around the midsection with lighter or brighter accents elsewhere.
- Patterns that visually slim and elongate your torso. Some of these patterns are: vertical stripes, tiny florals, polka dots and ombre or gradient colors (a gradual fade from dark to light elongates the body and creates a more streamlined look)
🎯 Here you can browse some cute bathing suits that will work for your body type!
And How About Cover-Ups?
Before we dive in, I just want to remind you: You absolutely don’t need a cover-up to feel beautiful. You already are!
But, speaking from personal experience, I know that sometimes adding a stylish cover-up can provide that extra boost of confidence we’re all looking for.
So, if it helps you feel more comfortable and confident (which is exactly the goal of this post!), here are five great cover-up options to consider:
⭐️ Kaftan: Effortless and flowy, perfect for feeling chic without fuss.
⭐️ Bottom Cover-Ups: Sarongs, beach skirts, or shorts—versatile options for adjustable coverage.
⭐️ Cover-Up Tops: Breezy tops, tunics, or cropped shirts that pair perfectly with swim bottoms. (a linen button down shirt is a great cover-up piece)
⭐️ Wrap Dress: Instantly creates a flattering waistline and feminine silhouette.
⭐️ Oversized Button-down: Timeless and casual, offering easy style and a relaxed vibe.
Pair these with a fabulous hat or headband, cute statement earrings, stylish flat sandals and a chic beach bag and you’ll be turning heads no matter where you go!
You know your body shape, now what?
Now that you (hopefully!) have a better idea of how to choose a swimsuit for your body shape, it’s time for the fun part; shopping!
Take note of the styles that work best for you and browse through these three amazing brands that focus on fit, inclusivity, and style:
- Quince – Affordable, high-quality swimsuits made with luxurious fabrics that feel amazing on the skin. Perfect for those who love minimalist, timeless designs.
- Albion Fit – A brand that prioritizes fit and comfort, offering swimsuits with great support, stylish details, and options for ALL body types.
- Summersalt – Known for its inclusive sizing and sculpting fit, Summersalt designs swimsuits that flatter in all the right places while keeping you stylish (my one-piece bathing suit in the photos is from here).
These brands aren’t just about cute styles. They prioritize fit, comfort, and body confidence, so you can feel amazing in whatever you choose. Now go find that perfect swimsuit and own your summer! ✨
Final Thoughts on Choosing A Swimsuit That Makes You Feel Good:
Swimsuit shopping can feel overwhelming. I know firsthand how vulnerable it can be to step into that fitting room. The light is always terrible in those… like, why? 😅 (that’s why I prefer online shopping, but I digress)
Remember, the perfect swimsuit isn’t just about looking great, it’s about feeling amazing, too. My hope is that this guide on how to choose a swimsuit that works for you, has given you all the tools you need to confidently pick out swimwear that makes you feel like your best self.
Embrace your beautiful body, celebrate your shape, and remember, confidence is your best look this summer (and always!).
Thanks for being here!
XO,
Aimara
PS: If you’ve found this post valuable, the closet quiz is basically like customized wardrobe advice! By just answering 7 fun questions, I will tell you exactly how to purge your closet and what to do next. My goal is to help you find your personal style and LOVE your outfits!
>>> Take the closet quiz here.
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
Related posts you will also enjoy:
- 5 genius spring break packing tips!
- What to pack for a beach vacation
- The ultimate guide to styling linen this summer
- How to create looks with a one-piece bathing suit
- How to create a summer capsule wardrobe
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