We all know that choosing a bikini (especially if you aren’t a size zero) can be a daunting task… but don’t worry, I’m here to help! No, it’s not impossible—you really can find the perfect swimsuit to flatter your shape if you just recognize a few key things. Know your body type! Your body shape or where you naturally distribute weight that determines what swimsuit looks best on you.

Don’t follow fashion trends if they don’t flatter your body type.  Whatever you are insecure about, whether it’s a tiny bust, a bigger bottom, or no curves at all, you can find something that looks incredible!

CHOOSING YOUR STYLE 

One-Piece or Two-Piece Swimsuit? Don’t feel like you have to pick a bikini just because it’s the norm. One-piece swimsuits can be very sexy, especially when you choose lovely colors, plunging necklines, halter necks and a beautiful fit. A rule I go by when choosing a one-piece suit is ‘Don’t reveal everything.’ Just show what works best for you and keep the rest interesting.

KNOWING YOUR BODY TYPE

Are you small on top? If you’re small on top, look for bikini tops with an adjustable strap and padding, or an under wire, demi-bra style that makes the most of a dainty bust line. Ruffled, fringed, frills and bandeau tops are so hot right now and that style is best for your body type—it exaggerates the appearance of a fuller chest. Pump up the volume to create an optical illusion! With a smaller bust, you are lucky and can get away with a variety of styles, as you don’t need much support. Try a sexy bandeau style for throwback Brigitte Bardot chic!

Are you bigger on top? Support is your best friend. Hello, underwire tops that hold everything in place. Halter-top offers plenty of support, while providing some cleavage too. Look for styles that are banded around the midriff and can be tied in back and around the neck as well as wide shoulder straps. Lift + adjustments = perfect, personal fit. Do NOT wear a bandeau-style top. It offers no support and will flatten and lower your chest.

Are your legs on the shorter side? The perfect excuse to show off those thighs! Play up your figure by finding a suit that is cut high on the thigh. This will make your leg look much longer. If you have curvy hips, that is A-OKAY! This cut will accentuate your smaller waist and give you a flirtatious look.

Is your body tall, lean and long? Clothing always drapes so beautifully on your body type. The only issue is, you do not want to look like a bean-pole in a swim suit. You can go wild with the embellishments at the hips and bust line. Rings, jewels, ties and bows are all flattering things for you. Try horizontal stripes and stretchy fabrics like terry. Cut-out suits are going to look best on you as it can break up a long torso and are extremely fashion forward.

Are you self-conscious about your tummy? No problem, ladies. One-piece suits with a cinched in waist create a foxy hourglass shape that distracts from other, unflattering areas. A belted waistline on a one-piece suit will give the appearance of a whittle middle. If you are self-conscious about your tummy try fabulous tummy control panel, empire waist or black color block swimsuits as they really work wonders.

Do you have wide, statuesque shoulders? Miss model, confident and statuesque. Balance is the key word here. You will want to play up the bottom of your torso and minimize the top.Wear bikini bottoms that have lots of color and print and also sport accents at the hips such as ties, belts and sashes.

Do you have a bigger bottom? If your bottom is bigger than your top, separates are the best choice. Bottoms with rings are cute but most importantly they keep your suit from riding up and exposing anything you’d rather keep hidden! Choosing a bikini is about balance. Try a plunging neckline. This look will draw attention to your top half and help balance your figure. Also, dark colors have a slimming effect and minimize the look of hips and butt. A ruffled or highly decorated top is OK too. The details will draw attention to your top half.

The wardrobe stylists at Urban Darling have one goal: to build a wardrobe you can count on™. Try us. You’ll love us.