Flattering swimsuits are out there for all women, be it those who have big thighs and a small bust or those with bigger bellies or a big bust. Read on to find out what swimsuit is best suited for what body type.
Pear-Shape / Big Thighs and Bikinis
To make a pear-shaped body look more like an hourglass, go for a two piece swimsuit that has a plain darker colored bottom and a lighter colored, patterned or in some way accented bikini top. Ruffles, a patterned design or other details on a top will draw attention up and away from the bottom half.
High cut legs on swimsuit bottoms also help give the illusion of longer legs, slimmer hips and a more proportional figure. Low rise bikini bottoms also hav a slimming effect. Trying to cover up the area with high-waisted brief-style bottoms are a no-no when it comes to a bikini, they will emphasise the bottom half of the body.
Large Bust Swimwear
Bigger busted women need to make sure they have good support for the top half with a bathing suit that essentially provides the hold-up power of a good bra. DD to F cup bathing suits are available out there, but shoppers may have to go to a store that specializes in swimsuits to get a better selection. Traditional string bikini tops and halter bikini tops generally don’t offer enough support, although there are some that are made with underwire that may be able to do the trick.
Small Bust and Swimsuits
For women with small busts, there are many bathing suits that have padding, inserts and underwire to help fill out the top area. Triangle bikini tops and halter top bikini styles also make smaller busts look bigger. Bikini tops with ruffles, bows, beadwork, patterns or other eye-catching accents can also be another tactic.
Long Torso/Short Torso Swimwear
Some women may find that one piece bathing suits aren’t working for them, and that can often be due to the length of their torso. A woman with a long torso can find that a one piece her size is always too tight while a woman with a short torso will find a suit her size seems to have extra material and sags. Going for two piece swimwear is usually the best bet. Choose from tankinis and bikinis
Bigger Belly and Bathing Suits
Darker colors are slimming, and black is always classic. Get a one piece with rushing or strategically placed piping or panels for a slimming effect. If one-piece swimsuits are feeling too tight and digging in the shoulders, another great option is the tankini. Make sure to get a good-fitting tankini top that covers all the belly -- without any of it bulging out between the top and the bottoms. Get a larger tankini top if needed to get the right coverage.
Get a bathing suit that fits right and looks good by following these tips for flattering swimsuits for women with figures that range from pear-shaped to big-busted.
Also check out Swimsuit Fitting Tips, Shopping Tips for Swimsuits and Vacation Beachwear for Women.
Tami Nicholson - Tami is the Topic Editor for Parenting Methods at Suite101. She is a mother of two with a background in education and journalism.
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