How To Choose A Swimsuit For Your Body Type

Summer is a great time to hit the beach — but buying a bathing suit can feel overwhelming. Every body is different, and finding a swimsuit that flatters your shape makes all the difference. This guide breaks it down by body type so you can shop with confidence.

As important as swimwear trends are, fit and flattery matter more. Remember: your weight doesn’t determine your body shape. You can be a Pear, Hourglass, or Athletic shape at any size.

What Is Your Body Shape?

Start by identifying which of these five body types fits you best:

Pear
Apple
Hourglass
Athletic
Rectangle

Body Types and the Best Bathing Suits

1. Apple Shape

Apple shapes carry weight around the middle, with a larger bust and narrower hips. Look for swimsuits with a high neckline and wider straps for bust support. High-waisted bikini bottoms draw attention to the waist and create curves. Use darker colors where you carry the most weight and brighter colors or prints where you want to draw the eye. Finish the look with accessories like hats and sunglasses.

2. Hourglass Shape

Hourglass shapes have a defined waist with proportional bust and hips. Highlight your waist with a belted one-piece or high-waisted bikini. A plunging neckline adds glamour. Solid colors, bold prints, and stripes all work well. Avoid heavy embellishment around the waistband — it competes with your natural curves. Our three-piece bikini sets are a great option for this shape.

Swimwear guide by body type – apple hourglass pear rectangle and athletic shapes with flattering swimsuit styles

3. Pear Shape

Pear shapes have narrow shoulders and fuller hips and thighs. The goal is to add volume up top. One-piece suits with belts, plunging necklines, or one-shoulder styles work beautifully. For bikinis, choose bold or patterned tops with solid, darker bottoms. High-waisted bottoms elongate the legs and provide coverage.

4. Straight / Rectangle Shape

Rectangle shapes have similar shoulder, waist, and hip measurements with few curves. Create the illusion of curves with ruffles, frills, or embellishments. A padded or push-up bikini top accentuates the bust. Bold prints and horizontal stripes add dimension. Vertical stripes elongate the body for a streamlined look.

Best Features to Highlight

Bust

Padded cups, underwire, or push-up tops draw attention upward. Halter and triangle tops also highlight the bust beautifully.

Shoulders

Off-the-shoulder or one-shoulder styles create a feminine, elegant look. Ruffled shoulder details add volume and texture.

Waist

Wrap-around designs and high-waisted bottoms cinch the waist and create an hourglass effect.

Back

Low-back swimsuits are striking and elegant. Cutouts and unique back details add interest to any style.

Hips and Thighs

High-cut legs and ruched sides create a shapelier silhouette. Avoid horizontal hip patterns — they add visual width.

Bikini styles by body type – how to choose the right bikini top and bottom for pear apple hourglass and rectangle shapes

Legs

High-cut legs and Brazilian or thong bottoms elongate the legs and create a sleek, confident look.

Final Thoughts

The best swimsuit is the one that makes you feel amazing. Use these tips as a starting point, then experiment with styles that excite you. Confidence is always the most flattering thing you can wear. Browse our full Women’s Swimwear collection to find your perfect fit this season.