We’ve all done it, at least once…
Put off working and spent hours looking at every online store we can think of, all the while wondering: What bathing suit do I buy this year?
With spring break just around the corner, the annual online bathing suit searches are in full force and internet “bookmarks” are starting to rack up. Whether or not it’s the ability to browse multiple stores at once, or simply a desire to avoid the always-unflattering dressing-room lights, it’s safe to say that many of us purchase our bathing suits online. But, shopping online for bathing suits tends to be a daunting and difficult task and can be especially risky when you don’t really know what you’re looking for…
Here are a couple things to keep in mind when you’re trying to find that perfect suit for your body type this season:
The Bust: Small or big?
For those of you with a smaller chest, the bandeau top was made for you, and will give you the perfect shape. Embellishments and patterns can also add shape to the chest. For example, horizontal stripes have a widening effect and give your tiny chest a fuller look.
Avoid choosing a top with a v-neck cut because it will call more attention to the bust and can emphasize any disproportion (especially if you have wider shoulders).
With that said, avoid the bandeau top if you are well-endowed up top. Instead, aim for an under-wired or structured top to ensure proper support; thick strap halter-tops have more material for support and will be significantly more flattering on than a string-halter. In terms of print and design, smaller, more-detailed patterns tend to distract and overwhelm the eyes. Solid, brighter colored tops accent a fuller chest without adding too much extra, unnecessary information.
No Hips?
The right suit should add some curvature to a straight, boyish shape. If possible, stray away from solid colors and consider patterned bottoms and/or embellishment around the waist. Horizontally arranged patterns and embellishments such as belts, ties, loops, or rings on the bottom have a widening affect that can accent the waist nicely. Bikini ties and boy short bottoms can also be a good choice for someone with narrow hips; indeed, draw can have an hourglass effect.
On the other hand, to avoid calling unwanted attention to wider hips, stick to the regular-cut bikini with no side ties or flashy attachments.
Big butts? Small butts?
Before you consider anything else, be sure to browse and buy the top and bottom as separates—a medium on top might not be a medium on bottom, and vice versa. Bottoms that have a little bit more material, such as the hipster or cheeky style, are necessary for those who are larger on the bottom because they are less likely to pinch or cut awkwardly into the skin. Also, more material tends to prevent any riding up. To avoid putting too much attention on a bigger backside, consider larger prints on bottom and/or solid, darker colors.
If you are smaller in the butt, definitely try exploring some smaller, crazier prints. Smaller prints offer the eyes more to look at and, in effect, will call less attention to the actual sizeof the bum. Meanwhile, a solid color on the bottom gives little else to look at besides the size.
Quick pointers:
1. Bright colors and small patterns call more attention to an area than darker solids and bigger prints. Busier prints attract eyes to the suit; plainer prints/solids emphasize the skin and body around it.
2. Add curvature to the hips with embellishments on the suit bottom
3. Certain patterns can have specific affects:
4. While horizontal lines and patterns provide a widening and fuller look, vertical patterns lengthen the overall look.
Be practical:
As much as we’d all love to look like the Victoria’s Secret models, most of us just don’t (which is normal!). Don’t let those beach babes seduce you into buying a suit that isn’t right for you. Beware of shopping online: images can be misleading! Keep the above tips in mind to guarantee your satisfaction and avoid shipping returns (what a pain!).
Whether or not you’ve already started your search or are just beginning to look for the perfect suit, be sure to consider these tips in order to truly compliment and flatter yourbody.