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Swimsuit Style Guide

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Swimsuit Style Guide

written and photographed by abby wood
Summertime! It’s time to soak up some rays (with sunscreen, of course) and enjoy some time at the pool. Maybe you’ve spent endless hours at the gym and eating a healthy diet in order to prepare for this. You think, “The hard part is done!” And then you remember. Swimsuit. Shopping. Is. The.Worst. But I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be! Interested? Keep reading.

 

Whenever I shop for my clients, I shop with a strategy. I need to find styles that will work best with someone’s specific body type. And remember, dressing room lighting is your greatest enemy. Always remember you are going to look a million times better in natural light at the pool!

Wondering what styles might work best for you? My trusty swimsuit style guide will direct you to the perfect bathing suit that will make you confident to strut your stuff around any pool deck!

 

Petite-busted: You’re petite everywhere and especially up top. Bra size AA-B. There are specific styles that can give your bust a little extra “oomph.” Look for sweetheart necklines or tops with bra-style construction. Most tops in this size come with built-in padding, too. Tops with fun details such as ruffles or embellishments will give you that extra confidence you want!

 

Full-busted: You wear a C-cup or above in a bra. Did you know certain brands make swimwear in cup sizes? Hallelujah! And some even have underwire! Look at local boutiques and department stores. This applies to both two-piece and one-piece suits, so if you are a busty girl, finding a great bra-sized suit could be life changing.

 

Straight up and down: You are straight up and down in the torso and narrow through your hips. Look for styles that have the mono-kini one-piece look with cutouts on the sides. This helps to better define your waist and results in a more hour-glass look. You should also try two-piece suits with fun girly details. Tie-side bikini bottoms can be adjusted to enhance your curves and because they’re adjustable, you can ensure a perfect fit!

 

Pear/apple shaped: You have a smaller bust and larger hips. Highlight your body above the waist as much as possible. A gorgeous plunging neckline will draw the eye up in a vertical motion, creating length in your silhouette. Stay away from boy shorts if at all possible; they’ll highlight your hips instead of balancing your look overall

 

Hourglass: 36-24-36 may not be your exact measurements, but you’re definitely a more “little in the middle” shape. Emphasize your curves with styles that will support your bust and slim your lower half. A tankini with a retro-style halter top is perfect for you. Skirted bottoms (super cute and on-trend) complete your flirty feminine look and provide additional coverage on the bottom. Want something more modern? Grab a strapless suit with color blocking to help highlight your waist.

 

Tummy-Concealing: You feel great but want to slim your middle just a smidge. Ruched detailing along your midsection is your best friend. This style element will hide any imperfections and will still be flattering. If you’re feeling daring and a little trendier, find a suit with some peek-a-boo mesh fabric. It’s the best of both worlds, the illusion of a two-piece with the comfort and confidence you’re looking for when camouflaging your midsection. This look is super slimming and a little sexy, too!

 

Armed with tips for the perfect style, you can now focus on looking forward to pool parties, cookouts and weekends at the lake without thinking about what to wear. Happy summer swimsuit shopping, everyone! HLM