Continuing my summer theme, this time I’m focusing on swimsuits.
If the thought of wearing swimwear fills you with anxiety, be assured that many people feel the same. Most people really are more concerned with their own bodies rather than looking at yours!
Understanding how to dress your body shape is key to any garment so that you can feel confident and relaxed, especially on holiday.
Projecting confidence is infectious, and I give my clients the knowledge so that they can strut their stuff around the pool.
If you’ve tried to find a swimsuit and struggled to find the right fit, read on as I share some tips on choosing the right one for your shape.
Neat Hourglass
Many would consider you very lucky and most styles will work on your frame. Choose a style that emphasises your figure; particularly your waist. If you need support, opt for it (I know I prefer it and miss the Floozie range which Debenhams used to stock! Try Pour Moi, Fantasie, Freya via Next and Marks & Spencer or Boden). Choose a flattering colour from your colour palette to really finish the look..
Full Hourglass
Due to your amazing curves, support really is recommended. A spaghetti strap is unlikely to provide sufficient support and you’ll likely find that they will dig or pinch your shoulders and neck. Seek out a style with a cup size which matches your bra size and you’ll find the fit much much more comfortable and flattering. Boden have a good range or try Next or M&S.
Be aware of frills on your bottom half which can add bulk making you appear hiding on your bottom than you are. A belted style will help to highlight your waist too. A flattering all over colour will also flatter and finish your look.
Triangle
You want to take attention away from your bottom and thighs. Choose your brighter colours on your top half and go for plain deeper shades on your bottom. High cut legs can lengthen the leg and adding detail to your top half where possible. This could be padding, embellishment or pattern.
If you’re looking for a bikini, be sure to choose one wear you can pick two pieces in different sizes or you’ll always find one is bigger/smaller than the other half. An off the shoulder swimsuit or asymmetric detail will visually broaden your shoulder line.
Inverted Triangle
Aim to keep any detail on your top half to a minimum, the bottom half will be more flattering and will help to balance the proportion between your broader shoulders and hips. A halter neck style will draw the eye inwards. Boy short style bottoms and floaty short/skirts will build up your bottom half too. You’ll also benefit from brands that sell two pieces in different sizes.
Oval
A good fitted one piece can help to elongate your frame. Try and invest in one with good tummy control to provide you with some extra confidence. An all-over print will distract the eye though be aware of too big or bold which could highlight any areas you want to distract from. One colour will help to lengthen the body too and can create a slimming effect. Choose one with a bra cup support if you need it.
Tankinis are also a great alternative as they tend to float over the tummy area.
Rectangle
Try a style with side panels or cut outs which will give the illusion of shape to your straighter body. If you do carry weight around your tummy, look for swimsuits with a busy print and detailing on your bust and hips to help disguise the area. Boden do a style called Portofino which creates some great panels to give the illusion of a waist. Ann Summers and Boux Avenue like their cut out options too!
Fit
Not everyone is equal in their proportions.
You’ve got to try them on! If you’re shopping online, read the descriptions – particularly the sizing guides and measurements. If you frequently find that a swimsuit is bit baggy on the bottom area then it’s likely that you have a shorter body area. Knowing the measurements means you can check before you order and save time (and money) ordering something which won’t fit. You may need to switch to a different style to accommodate your shape and proportions.
If you’re bigger in the bust, choose one with a proper fitted bra cup. Yes, they will be more expensive but they’ll be much more comfortable to wear and flatter your shape more.
Colour
I’ve touched a little bit on colour already but more colours really do exist than black. Many people want to hide behind black but simply choose a deeper shade which will be more flattering. If you know your colours, choose one from your swatches (which you get with a colour analysis consultation)