The Best Swimsuits for Your Body Type

*By: Christi Shingara*

Summer days are on the horizon, which means time to grab the swimsuit and head to the nearest beach or pool. However, maybe you haven’t found the perfect swimsuit yet and dread the whole grueling process of choosing the right one. Here are some tips on how to pick the right swimsuit for your body type.

First, let’s talk about body type. The 5 common body types are hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, inverted triangle.

Hourglass – This shape consists of the hips and bust are close to being equal in size and a waist that is narrower than both.

Pear – This shape consists of large hips that are wider than the bust and shoulders. The waist is defined and arms and shoulders are proportionately slim.

Apple – The apple body type has characteristics that consists of a heavier mid-section with a wide torso and broad shoulders. An average sized bust and an undefined waist. This shape also includes thinner arms and legs with a flatter bottom and hips that are narrower than the bust area.

Rectangle – These characteristics include measurements that are equal in the bust, waist and hip areas.‍ This shape usually tends to be tall and lean and not curvy. The waist is not well-defined, and the bottom is flat.

Inverted Triangle – Characteristics of this shape include broader shoulders than the hips, very little waist definition. The body is a shape of a “V”. The shoulders tend to be straight or squared.

Now that we have defined the most common body types, let’s figure out which kind of bathing suit compliments each body type.

Hourglass body types should lean more toward triangle tops, halter tankini tops and full coverage bottoms. This is to help accentuate the narrow waist and downplay a more fuller butt.

Pear shaped body types will be most complimented with halter tops, skirted or high-waist bottoms, off the shoulder, or vertical designs. These suits will help the natural curve of the waist and balance out the butt and thighs.

Apple shapes look best in ruching tankini tops, tops with low necklines, high-waist bottoms and peplum. These suits take emphasis away from the stomach and draw the eye to the bottom half of the body.

Rectangle body types should steer more toward triangle bikini tops, tankini tops, classic bikini bottoms and suits that cut high on the hip and have plunging necklines. Suits with these styles will help add flattering curves to the bust and give a more feminine silhouette.

Inverted rectangle types asymmetrical necklines, V-necks, pattern bikini bottoms, and color blocking suits. These styles will break up the wide shoulders and balance out thick toros and short necks.

Whatever shape you are, there are swimsuits out there that will help you look your best and be proud of just how beautiful you really are! Enjoy the summer ahead.

Have a favorite bathing suit brand or style? Let me know in the comments below.