It’s summer in the Northern hemisphere and if it’s actually hot (sadly summer isn’t always so hot everywhere), but if you need a new swimsuit and want some tips to flatter your body shape, as they are the most unforgiving of garments, then read on.
Swimwear to Flatter Your Body Shape
I shape – horizontal stripes will give you more curves
A shape – darker bottom and lighter top will balance your booty.
X shape – enhance your curves with a suit that draws the eye upwards
H shape – look for built in waist shaping or a cross-over design
V shape – lighter bottom and darker top and halternecks all flatter.
8 shape - your classic shape was born for 50s retro swimwear and anything that highlights your waist.
O shape – look for built in waist support and contouring. A boy leg offers more coverage.
Body Variations
Want longer legs? Look for a higher cut leg.
Small bust – from padding to strapless, extra horizontal detail or other embellishments work for you.
Large bust – to avoid the mono-boob look, find a swimsuit that has built in underwire to keep your girls lifted and separated. Check out Bravissimo for some great options if you need that extra support.
thanks v much for this!!
My pleasure Susie
Any suggestions for an X-shape looking to hide those hateful low-hip saddlebags? They’re easy to camouflage with regular clothes, but they do seem more noticeable in just about any swimsuit!
You can do as I do – wear board shorts and a Tankini top!
Any tips for someone too long in the torso for the 8 shape suits? I can definitely see where it would help with my high hips, but monokinis and one-pieces give my 6’0″ frame a serious *ahem* camel toe. Any two piece options for an 8 shape? Would a high waisted skirt work?
Hi. I have found your posts about Figure 8 so helpful. Discovering your site has been such a relief as I knew I wasn’t fitting into the standard shapes I kept reading about.
I would really love if you could do a post on how Figure 8′s can wear belts. I love belts but find it hard to get them to not make me look ten times wider across my hips.