Tue 11th Jun 2024

How To Find The Perfect Swimsuit For Your Body Type

Finding the perfect swimsuit or bikini for your body type can be a little tricky, but once you find the one - it's a match made in paradise. It's not just about looking good, but also feeling good. When you wear a swimsuit that flatters your body type, it can boost your confidence and make you feel empowered. Imagine this - you're at the beach, the sun is shining, and you're in a swimsuit that fits in all the right places. You're not adjusting it or feeling self-conscious. Instead, you're comfortable, relaxed, and ready to enjoy the sun. Sounds dreamy, right? That's the power of perfect fitting swimwear. So, don't underestimate the importance of finding the ultimate piece for you.

Model sat wearing a multicoloured swimsuit

Understanding Your Body Type

Before you start the search for that perfect swimwear, it is super important to know your body type and its unique characteristics. Body shape has a dramatic effect on what swimsuit styles will look best on you.

Pear Shape

A pear-shaped body is characterised by having hips that are wider than the bust. When shopping for a swimsuit, pear shapes should look for styles that help balance the upper and lower body. A swimsuit that draws attention to the top half of the body (think bold colours, ruffles, or an interesting neckline) can be flattering. At the same time, solid, darker colours for the bottom half help to minimize focus on a wider hip area.

Model sat wearing a black swimsuit

Hourglass Figure


An hourglass figure comes with a bust and hip that are roughly equal in width, but with a noticeably smaller waist. This body type tends to be well-proportioned, allowing you to pull off a wide range of swimsuit styles. However, the most flattering swimsuits for hourglass figures are those that maintain these natural proportions. Try to find swimwear that does not pinch at the waist or is too loose at the bust or hips. Consider a one-piece or bikinis with added support in the chest area if you have a larger bust.
 

Model sat wearing a green bikini

Apple Shape

Apple-shaped bodies tend to carry more weight around the middle, with a fuller bust and less defined waist. The key to choosing a swimsuit if you're apple-shaped is to balance your proportions and draw attention away from the middle. Opt for one-piece suits, swim dresses or tankinis which offer more coverage and support for the bust and stomach. Additionally, swimsuits with ruching or shirring around the waist can create the illusion of a slimmer midsection. A V-neckline design also helps to elongate the figure and draw the eye upwards.

Model stood wearing a black swimsuit

Broad Shoulders

Broad shoulders are usually wider than the hips, giving a body appearance that can either be athletic or boxy. The goal for this body type when shopping for a swimsuit is to reduce the appearance of shoulder width and to bring attention to the lower half of your body to achieve a balanced look. You can do this by choosing swimsuits with wide-set shoulder straps, halter necks or V-neck styles that can balance shoulder broadness. Meanwhile, for the bottom, consider designs with ruffles, patterns, and even swim dresses to give the hips and legs more attention.

Model stood wearing a black and white polkerdot swimsuit

Rectangle Shape

Those with a rectangular body shape have measurements that are roughly even between their bust, waist, and hips. This figure may desire a swimsuit that adds more curves. One way to create the illusion of a more defined waist is by choosing a cut-out swimsuit or alternatively, embellishments like ruffles, padding, or bold prints can add volume in the bust or hip area. Don’t shy away from playful patterns and embellishments, they create visual interest and give the impression of a more defined figure.

Model stood wearing a multicoloured swimsuit

Now that you are familiar with what styles suit your body type and you’re potentially treating yourself to a new swimsuit or bikini, there’s some other important features you need to consider when finding the perfect fit. Here's a roundup of the key features you should consider:

  • High Waisted Bikinis - High waisted bikinis can be an excellent choice for those looking to accentuate a slim waist or elongate shorter torsos. They’re also well-suited to provide extra coverage for your tummy and hips.
  • Bigger Bust Support - For those with a larger bust, seek out swimsuits or bikinis that provide good support. Look for features like underwire or molded cups, wider straps for comfort, and full chest coverage. Swimsuits with adjustable straps can also provide a customized fit to your unique shape.
  • Tummy Control Swimwear - If you're self-conscious about your tummy, consider our Magisculpt swimsuit range with built-in tummy control which can provide a sleek, streamlined look. These swimsuits are designed with power mesh lining or ruching in the belly area that can help in minimizing the tummy while highlighting the waistline.
  • Adjustable Swimwear Straps - Adjustable straps play a crucial role in ensuring that your swimsuit fits perfectly and stays put. They offer the advantage of a customized fit on your shoulders, thus enhancing your comfort and overall swimsuit look.
  • Plunge Necklines - A plunge neckline can be an effective feature for elongating the neck and enhancing the bust area. This style flatters both small and bigger busts, and works great with most body figures too.
  • High Cut Leg Swimsuits - High cut leg swimsuits are designed to elongate your legs and accentuate your hips. Regardless of your body type, this feature brings the illusion of longer, leaner legs, which is generally flattering.
  • Colour and Pattern - Lastly, but certainly not least, is the colour and pattern of your swimsuit. The right colour can enhance your skin tone while the wrong one can make you look washed out. The same applies to patterns. Strategic patterns can highlight your best features and downplay areas you're less confident about. As a rule of thumb, dark colours and vertical patterns tend to slim while bright colours and bold patterns draw attention.
     
Model stood wearing a hooped multicoloured swimsuit

It's safe to say that looking for the perfect swimsuit or bikini goes way beyond just the aesthetics—it’s not just about the first style that catches your eye or the trend everyone is talking about. It's a real art knowing what styles fit you like a glove and understanding what flatters your body type. You deserve to feel fully confident in your own skin this summer.