How to Choose the Perfect Bikini for Your Body Type
Finding a flattering bikini doesn't have to be complicated. Here's what you need to know:
- Know your body shape (Apple, Pear, Athletic, Hourglass, Rectangle)
- Pick styles that highlight your best features
- Focus on fit, quality materials, and colors that complement your skin
- Try different styles to find what makes you feel confident
Quick comparison of bikini styles for body types:
| Body Shape | Best Bikini Styles |
|---|---|
| Apple | Plunging necklines, high-waisted bottoms |
| Pear | Bold tops, solid bottoms |
| Athletic | Padded tops, patterned bottoms |
| Hourglass | Matching sets, high-waisted styles |
| Rectangle | Ruffled styles, cut-out one-pieces |
Remember: The best bikini is the one that makes you feel great. Confidence is key!
Related video from YouTube
5 Main Body Shapes
Let's talk about the five main body shapes and how they affect your bikini choices:
Apple Shape
Apple shapes? Extra weight around the middle and often a fuller bust. But hey, you've got great legs and arms!
Bikini tips:
- Go for plunging necklines (slims the torso)
- Try high-waisted bottoms (hello, tummy control)
- Rock patterned bottoms with side-ties (hip highlight)
Pear Shape
Pear shapes have wider hips and thighs compared to their upper body. Your secret weapon? That defined waist.
Bikini tips:
- Bold patterned tops (draws eyes up)
- High-cut bottoms (legs for days)
- Solid colors on bottom (balances things out)
Athletic Shape
Athletic bodies? Broader shoulders and straighter waistline. Your superpower? That toned physique.
Bikini tips:
- Padded tops (adds curves)
- Ruffled or bold-patterned bottoms (creates balance)
- Mix simple tops with fancy bottoms
Hourglass Shape
Hourglass figures have a well-defined waist with balanced bust and hips. Your advantage? Those natural curves.
Bikini tips:
- High-waisted bottoms (show off that waist)
- Matching sets (keeps everything balanced)
- Supportive tops (flatter that bust)
Rectangle Shape
Rectangle bodies have similar measurements for bust, waist, and hips. Your plus? You can rock pretty much any style.
Bikini tips:
- Triangle tops and side-tie bottoms
- Ruffled styles (adds volume)
- Cut-out one-pieces (creates a waist)
Remember: These are just guidelines. The BEST bikini? The one that makes you feel like a million bucks.
| Shape | Features | Best Styles |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | Fuller bust/midsection | Plunging necklines, high-waisted bottoms |
| Pear | Wider hips/thighs | Bold tops, solid bottoms |
| Athletic | Broad shoulders, straight waist | Padded tops, patterned bottoms |
| Hourglass | Defined waist, balanced bust/hips | Matching sets, high-waisted styles |
| Rectangle | Similar bust/waist/hip measurements | Ruffled styles, cut-out one-pieces |
Key Bikini Buying Tips
Shopping for a bikini? Here's what to keep in mind:
Good Fit
A well-fitting bikini is crucial. It should:
- Hug your body without squeezing
- Stay put when you move
- Give you the support you need
Quick test: Bend over and adjust the straps. Does it still feel good? Remember, swimwear often runs small. Don't sweat sizing up.
Good Materials
Fabric quality matters:
- Go for thick, double-lined materials
- Look for good stretch (60-70% flexibility)
- Nylon blends (80% nylon, 20% spandex) are comfy
- Polyester blends last longer and block UV rays
| Material | Why It's Great |
|---|---|
| Nylon | Light, wicks moisture, dries fast |
| Polyester | Tough, resists chlorine, blocks UV |
| Elastane | Adds stretch when mixed in |
Colors and Patterns
Choose colors that complement your skin. Bold patterns can highlight your best features, while solid colors can slim you down.
Try Different Styles
Don't stick to one style. Mix it up:
- High-waisted bottoms
- Triangle tops
- Bandeau styles
- One-pieces with cutouts
The best bikini? It's the one that makes you feel like a million bucks.
"Find a swimsuit that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable." - Danielle Black Lyons, Co-Founder of Textured Waves
Best Bikinis for Each Body Type
Finding the perfect bikini isn't just about style - it's about feeling great in your own skin. Let's dive into the best options for different body types:
Apple Shapes
Got a broader bust and waist? Here's what works:
- Plunging necklines to slim the torso
- Tankini tops with high-waisted bottoms
- Swimsuits with tummy control panels
Try the Youswim Aplomb One-Piece. Its high-leg design shows off your legs, while thick straps offer solid support.
Pear Shapes
Rocking wider hips? Balance your figure with:
- Bold patterns or embellishments up top
- High-cut bottoms to lengthen legs
- Darker bottoms and brighter tops
Check out the Reformation Campo Bikini Bottom. Its mid-rise, high-leg cut flatters your shape. Pair it with their full-cup Maldives top for extra support.
Athletic Shapes
Broad shoulders with straighter hips? Add some curves:
- Tops with padding or ruffles
- Bottoms with bold patterns or side-ties
- Asymmetrical designs
The Hunza G Jamie Twist-Front Metallic Seersucker Bikini is a winner. Its high waist and high-leg cut create the illusion of curves.
Hourglass Shapes
Similar bust and hips with a defined waist? Show it off:
- Matching sets to keep proportions balanced
- High-waisted bottoms to highlight your waist
- Structured tops with good support
Try the Tona Luna High Waist Bikini Bottoms with their Ava bikini top. It's designed for bigger busts and works wonders for this shape.
Rectangle Shapes
Similar bust, waist, and hips? Create some curves:
- Tops with ruffles or embellishments
- Bottoms with side-ties or bold patterns
- One-pieces with cut-out sides
For slimmer rectangle bodies, skimpy triangle tops and side-tie bottoms can work magic.
Types of Bikini Tops
Picking the right bikini top can make or break your beach look. Here's a rundown of popular styles:
Halter Tops
Halter tops tie behind your neck. They're great for:
- Supporting larger busts
- Flattering broader shoulders
- Offering adjustable fit
Many come with padding or removable inserts for extra oomph.
Bandeau Tops
Bandeau tops wrap around your chest, no straps needed. They're perfect for:
- Avoiding tan lines
- Smaller to medium busts
Need more support? Look for bandeaus with built-in underwire.
Triangle Tops
Triangle tops are the classic bikini style. They're:
- Adjustable
- Versatile for many body types
- Best for smaller busts or a natural look
But heads up: they're not big on support.
Underwire Tops
Want lift and support? Underwire tops are your go-to. They:
- Come in various styles (plunge, balconette, etc.)
- Work wonders for larger busts
- Offer both comfort and shape
Crop Top Bikinis
Crop top bikinis are trending. They:
- Provide more coverage
- Pair well with high-waisted bottoms
- Suit many body types
- Stay put during beach activities
Here's a quick comparison:
| Style | Best For | Support Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Halter | All bust sizes | High | Medium |
| Bandeau | Small to medium busts | Low | Medium |
| Triangle | Small to medium busts | Low | Low to Medium |
| Underwire | Medium to large busts | High | Medium to High |
| Crop Top | All bust sizes | Medium | High |
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Types of Bikini Bottoms
Let's break down popular bikini bottom styles:
High-Waisted Bottoms
These sit above the navel, offering more coverage and a retro look.
- Smooth the tummy
- Create an hourglass shape
- Give a vintage vibe
The Molokai Bottom, for example, has a high-rise waistline at the belly button, covering the lower tummy and hips.
Low-Rise Bottoms
Sitting below the hip bones, these:
- Elongate the torso
- Show more skin
- Work for shorter torsos
Boy Shorts
These provide more coverage, like short shorts. Great for:
- Active beach days
- Extra thigh coverage
- Pear-shaped figures
Brazilian Cut
For a bold look, these:
- Show off more backside
- Have a Y-shaped cut
- Suit athletic builds
Classic Briefs
These timeless bottoms offer moderate coverage:
- Sit at the natural waistline
- Provide a secure fit
- Flatter many body types
SwimZip's Classic Bikini Bottom offers medium coverage with a low-rise waistline, making it versatile.
| Style | Coverage | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Waisted | Full | Tummy control | Sits above navel |
| Low-Rise | Minimal | Elongating torso | Sits below hips |
| Boy Shorts | Maximum | Active wear | Covers upper thighs |
| Brazilian | Minimal | Showing curves | Y-shaped back |
| Classic Briefs | Moderate | Versatility | Standard cut |
Bikini Shopping Tips
Finding the perfect bikini doesn't have to be a headache. Here's how to make your swimsuit shopping a breeze:
Store vs. Online: Pros and Cons
| Store Shopping | Online Shopping |
|---|---|
| Try on instantly | Shop from your couch |
| Staff help available | More options |
| Feel the fabric | Often cheaper |
| Limited hours | 24/7 shopping |
| Possible crowds | No fitting room stress |
Online Bikini Shopping: Do's and Don'ts
1. Size matters
Check those size charts. Measure yourself and compare.
2. Read the reviews
See what other shoppers say about fit and quality.
3. Size up (and down)
Order your favorite in multiple sizes. Better safe than sorry.
4. Know the return policy
Make sure you can send it back if it's not right.
Mix It Up
Don't stick to one style. Try:
- High-waisted bottoms
- Halter tops
- Boy shorts
- Bandeau tops
Quick tip: Shop in the morning. You'll feel less bloated and more comfortable.
Here's what Natasha Oakley, swimsuit designer and model, says:
"Don't get hung up on size labels. I wear everything from x-small to x-large in swimwear. Go with what fits, not what the tag says."
Remember: The best bikini is the one that makes you feel like a beach goddess. Happy shopping!
Taking Care of Your Bikini
Want your bikini to last? Here's how to keep it beach-ready:
Wash and Dry Right
Treat your bikini with care:
- Rinse after use
- Hand wash in cool water with mild soap
- Don't wring it out
- Air dry flat in the shade
Store Smart
Keep your bikini safe:
- Make sure it's dry before storing
- Short-term: fold in a drawer or bag
- Long-term: use airtight bins with silica gel
- Don't hang wet suits
Make It Last
Extend your bikini's life:
- Switch between suits
- Put on sunscreen before your bikini
- Sit on a towel
- Skip the hot tub when possible
"To keep your suit looking good for years to come, care for it using these eight tips from laundry pros." - Olympic Hot Tub
Wrap-Up
Picking a great bikini isn't about magic transformations. It's about feeling awesome in your own skin.
Here's the deal:
- You're beach-ready, no matter what
- Pick a suit that feels good
- Your attitude trumps any swimsuit
Boost your bikini confidence:
- Have fun, forget flaws
- Hang with positive people
- Take care of yourself
"You deserve to enjoy yourself. You deserve to have fun. You deserve to feel good in your skin." - Jenn Trepeck, Health Coach
Don't let worries stop you from making summer memories. Rock that bikini and dive into your best beach season yet.
FAQs
What bathing suits are in style this year?
2024's swimwear scene is a mix of classic and bold:
- Minimalist one-pieces with cutouts (Saint Laurent)
- Black-and-white patterns (Solid & Striped)
- Metallic finishes in pink and blue
- Butter yellow hues
- Animal prints
- 3D floral appliqués
"I'm excited prints are back. Summer of 78 has a beautiful seventies-inspired leopard print." - Summer Rapp, Founder of Summer Of 78
Shopping tips:
- Try different styles
- Consider timeless designs
- Choose between bold prints or minimalist cuts
- Look for flattering details like contouring