Dive into Summer: The Ultimate Swimwear Guide for Every Body Shape

John Lewis, Top £30 and Bottoms, £18

Summer is here, and with it comes the promise of sun-soaked beach days and poolside lounging. But finding the perfect swimwear can feel like an endless quest for so many of us. Fear not, fashion mavens! Whether you’re an apple, pear, curvy, or athletic shape, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to help you sizzle this season. From figure-flattering cuts to eye-catching styles, discover how to celebrate your unique silhouette with swimwear that makes you look and feel fabulous. Read on to uncover the top trends and tips tailored to your body shape, ensuring you make a splash wherever you go.

So You’re An ApplE

If your midsection is fuller, with a less defined waistline, and you carry weight around your abdomen, you’re likely an Apple. It may also be that your shoulders and bust are typically broader, and your legs are slender and shapely. To highlight your best features, seek swimwear that accentuates your bust and legs while drawing attention away from the tummy area. Here are the best styles for your body shape:

Asymmetric Necklines

Draw attention upwards with an asymmetric neckline, helping to balance the overall silhouette and distract from the midsection. Look for asymmetric swimmers with built-in support to enhance the bust and provide a flattering fit.

Empire Waists & Ruching

Look for swimsuits with an empire waist or ruched designs that help to create a defined waistline and draw attention upwards, away from the midsection.

Deep V-Necks and Halter Top

Opt for deep V-necklines or halter tops to highlight the bust and elongate the torso, creating a balanced silhouette.

High-Waisted Bottoms

High-waisted bikini bottoms can provide coverage and support for the midsection while accentuating the legs.

So You’re a Pear

If your hips and thighs are fuller, and your shoulders and bust are narrower, you’re a classic pear shape. This silhouette often boasts a well-defined waist and a curvaceous lower body. The key to perfecting your beach look is to balance your proportions by emphasising your upper body and showcasing your slim waist. Here are the best styles for your body shape:

Bold Patterns & Bright TopS

Choose swimsuits with bright colors or bold patterns on the top to draw attention to the upper body and balance wider hips.

A-Line or Skirted Bottoms

A-line or skirted bottoms can offer more coverage for the hips and thighs, creating a more proportionate look.

Off-the-Shoulder & Ruffled TopS

Off-the-shoulder styles or tops with ruffles add volume to the bust and shoulders, balancing the lower half.

so you’re Curvy

Embodying an hourglass figure, your bust and hips are well-balanced, with a distinctly narrow waist. This shape celebrates curves in all the right places. Flaunt your silhouette with swimwear that offers support and structure, enhancing your natural proportions and highlighting your waistline. Here are the best styles for your body shape:

Support & Adjust

Swimsuits with underwire and adjustable straps provide the necessary support and enhance the natural curves, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit.

WraP-style & Belted

Wrap-style swimsuits or those with belts help to define the waist and emphasize an hourglass shape, highlighting the curves beautifully.

High-Cut Legs

High-cut leg openings can elongate the legs and enhance the curves, giving a sleek and elegant appearance.

So You’re Athletic

Your body is naturally straight and lean, with minimal curves. Shoulders, waist, and hips are fairly uniform in width, reflecting a strong and athletic build. To add dimension and create the illusion of curves, opt for styles that feature ruffles, cut-outs, and bold prints. Here are the best styles for your body shape:

Ruffles & Frills

Swimsuits with ruffles, frills, or embellishments can add volume and create the illusion of curves, enhancing a straight body shape.

Cut-Outs and Monokinis

Strategically placed cut-outs or monokinis with side detailing can create a curvier silhouette and add interest to the overall look.

Bold Prints & Pattern

Opt for bold prints and patterns to add dimension and create the appearance of more curves, making the athletic figure look more dynamic.

When in doubt, remember that confidence is your best accessory. Embrace your body’s natural shape, and choose swimwear that makes you feel comfortable and fabulous.
— Nicola, Hood Digital Editor

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