When it comes to clothing, there are few things that give women more anxiety than the swimsuit: First, there’s the process of weeding through the multitudes of possibilities, and then there’s the actual wearing of it. Finding the right suit—one that’s designed for your figure—can go a long way toward quieting that anxiety. We’ve done the weeding to find suits meant to flatter women with different body types: those with large chests, those with a tummy they prefer to camouflage, those with full hips and thighs, and those with straighter shapes. So let the sun shine—we’ll see you on the beach.
Small Bust
Less-endowed ladies, consider yourselves lucky! You can pretty much wear any style, regardless of how supportive. To emphasize what you’ve got, make your M.O. “lift and separate.” Stick to suits that have a bit of padding or boning to add contours, or try busy patterns or ruffles for a little enhancement without any added material.
Calvin Klein Swimsuit
This simple, high-neckline silhouette draws attention to your arms and shoulders, making them the main focal point of your upper body (not your chest). This suit also has removable padding so you can play up your shape as much—or as little—as you want.
Zoë Ayla NEO Full-Coverage Neoprene Bikini Set
If you’re of the “go big or go home” mentality, this bikini is basically the push-up bra of swimsuits. Serious padding and structure will give a major boost to your bust (and even add a little cleavage). A cute pineapple print and high-waisted bottoms complete the retro, pin-up look.
Straight Figure
Narrower figures need not worry about balancing proportions, and can wear nearly anything they want. But if it’s curves you’re after, consider adding dimensional details like cut-outs, shirring, and bold prints to create the illusion of a more hourglass shape.
Tummy
Feeling a little self-conscious about exposing your midsection? (Honestly, who isn’t?) Don’t shy away from swimwear—options from one-pieces to tankinis to, yes, even bikinis, come in cuts so flattering you’ll feel confident flaunting your figure.
Wala Swim Coast to Coast High Neck Maillot
Talk about an optical illusion! This halter’s on-trend black and white print draws the eye up and down in an elongating line. Built for cup sizes A through C, the cups and boning are removable, so you can control the amount of shape and support you want on top.
Full Hips and Thighs
Balance out a bottom-heavy figure with bold patterns or colors on top that draw the eye upward. Watch out for cuts like boy shorts that hit straight across the thigh, making them appear wider, and look for suits with higher-cut leg-lines instead.
Jessica Simpson Strappy Days Plunge Keyhole Maillot
A deep neckline and bright bands of color highlight the waist and bust, rather than the hips and thighs. A halter neckline that ties behind adds appeal, but also ensures slip-free coverage.