How To Choose The Best Bathing Suit For Your Body Type
We're officially halfway through summer (don't shoot the messenger), and that means the best swimsuits are finally going on sale. So whether you're heading to the neighborhood pool, planning a last-minute beach trip, or just plotting for next year, now’s the time to snag your forever favorite while it’s marked down.
The trick? Picking silhouettes that flatter your shape and make you feel confident and comfortable. From petite to pear-shaped to curvy and everything in between, here’s a breakdown of the best swimsuit style or cut for each body type (sans thongs), chosen specifically to enhance your natural proportions, flatter your curves, and boost confidence without trying too hard:
1. Pear
Best Style: High-cut bikini bottoms with a plunging or embellished top
Why: The high-cut elongates the legs, while details up top (like ruffles, bright colors, or plunging necklines) draw the eye upward to balance your proportions.
Shop: Cupshe x JoJo Sunstone Charm Bikini Top & Cheeky High Leg Bottoms Set, $40
Shop: Larroude Montce Peri Micro Gingham Added Coverage High Rise Bikini Bottom, $98
2. Petite
Best Style: String bikinis or one-pieces with high leg cuts and minimal coverage
Why: Less fabric helps avoid overwhelming a smaller frame, and high-cut legs visually lengthen short legs. Bonus: vertical stripes or plunging necklines add height.
Shop: Dippin Daisys Besties High Waisted Bikini Bottom, $26
Shop: Boden Rhodes Cup-Size Swimsuit, $149
3. Hourglass
Best Style: Classic underwire bikini or belted one-piece
Why: Supportive tops and belted waists highlight a balanced bust-to-hip ratio and accentuate the waist. Look for structured or retro cuts that celebrate curves.
Shop: Une Piece Original Bustier Balconette Bikini Bralette, $129
Shop: Monday Swimwear Miami One Piece, $189
4. Rectangle (Athletic)
Best Style: Cutout one-piece or ruffled bikini
Why: Cutouts and ruffles create the illusion of curves by adding volume and dimension. Tie-front details, side ties, or wrap styles help define the waist.
Shop: Dillard's Antonio Melani Ornate Border Bonded Ruffle V-Neck Tie Back Bralette Swim Top, $45
Shop: LSPACE Rosette Kyslee One Piece Swimsuit, $180
5. Plus Size
Best Style: Wrap one-piece or ruched tankini with adjustable straps
Why: Wrap styles cinch the waist beautifully, and ruching smooths and flatters. Look for styles that offer bust support and customizable coverage.
Shop: Amazon Yonique Plus Size One Piece Swimsuit, $37
Shop: Amazon Yonique Women Plus Size 2 Piece Tankini Swimsuit, $34
6. Apple
Best Style: Deep V-neck one-piece with tummy control and ruching
Why: The V-neck draws attention upward, while subtle compression and gathered fabric at the midsection offer shape without clinging too tightly. Bonus if it has thicker straps for bust support.
Shop: TA3 Swim Lifty, $188
