Choosing a Flattering Style
Choose a one-piece if you want full-coverage.
A traditional one-piece swimsuit will cover your entire torso, so this is the most modest option. One-piece swimsuits are also often better for exercise, so you might go with this option if you plan to swim laps or do water aerobics.
- You can find more daring one-piece styles if desired, such as a swimsuit with a deep v-neck, low-back, one strap, no straps, or side cutouts.
- Go with a high back one-piece to cover your back or a low-back one-piece to show off your back.
Select a bikini if you are comfortable baring your midsection.
Bikinis are the most daring type of swimsuit because they only cover your breasts and private area. This means that your entire midriff and back will be visible. If you are comfortable showing off your body, then this is a great option for you.
- You can purchase a bikini as a set, or get a coordinating top and bottom to wear together, such as a string bikini top with a bikini skirt bottom, a high-waisted bottom with a strapless top, or a full coverage top with a low-rider boyshort.
- Keep in mind that you may need a different sized bottom and top, which is another reason why it may be better to buy them separately.
Look for details on top to enhance a small chest.
Ruffles, bold colors and prints, and padding can all help to accentuate your chest. If your chest is on the small side and you want to make it seem bigger, then opt for a swimsuit with extra elements to enhance and draw attention to your chest.
Tip: If you don’t want to enhance your bust, go in the opposite direction. Opt for a simple top with no padding or accents, such as a simple triangle top in a muted color.
Get a supportive top if you are full-chested.
Whether you are opting for a bikini, tankini, or one piece swimsuit, you will want to have good support if you have a full chest. Check the straps and cups on any suit you consider to see if they are well-constructed and sturdy. Go with a with a halter, racer back, or something with thick straps.
- Avoid string bikinis, strapless suits, and less supportive swimsuits if you have a full chest.
Wear dark colors to minimize and light colors to accent a body part.
Light colors draw attention while dark colors are less noticeable. Choose light colors for the part of your body you want to stand out or highlight, and dark colors for the part you want to minimize.
- For example, you could pair a black bottom with a bright red top to minimize your backside and accent your bust.
- Or, pair a white bottom with a navy blue top to minimize your bust and accent your bottom.
Choose full-coverage bottom to distract from your hips.
These types of bottoms provide full coverage for your hips, which can help to make them seem smaller and hide imperfections. Go with one of these types of bottoms if your hips are a concern for you.
- For example, you could opt for a bikini, tankini, or one-piece with a sash-bottom, swim-skirt, or boycut bottom.
