When summer arrives, many people head for swimming pools and beaches. They check out bikinis online, and read about the hottest San Diego swim trends. By wearing the right attire, people can feel confident and fabulous as they soak up the sun. However, people's figures come in all shapes and sizes! In this article, we've curated a comprehensive guide on swimwear for every body type.

Hourglass Figures

One body type that's often envied and desired is the hourglass figure. This classic shape is characterized by a well-defined waistline, with hips and bust in proportion. One popular clothing choice is a high-waisted bikini bottom, paired with a halter or bandeau top. This style emphasizes the waistline, while providing coverage and support for the bust and hips. A further choice is a one-piece swimsuit with strategic cutouts. This can highlight the curves without revealing too much skin.

It's also important to select colors and patterns that enhance your hourglass figure. Opting for solid colors or vertical stripes can elongate the body, and create a slimming effect. Alternatively, playful prints (like polka dots or floral designs) can add visual interest, while still flattering your silhouette. When it comes to accessorizing, consider belts or wrap-around details on swimsuits. These can further emphasize your waistline, and enhance your natural curves.

Pear-Shaped Bodies

The focus here is on balancing out the proportions and highlighting your best features. One great option is a swimsuit with a plunging neckline or halter top. This draws attention upwards and accentuates the shoulders. In turn, this helps to create more balance between the bust and hips. Another option is a high-waisted bikini bottom paired with a tankini or crop top. The high-waisted bottoms help to slim down the hips and thighs, while creating an hourglass shape. Tankinis or crop tops provide extra coverage for those who prefer not to show too much skin, but still want a fashionable look.

In terms of patterns and colors, opt for solid colors on the bottom half of your swimsuit (to minimize attention in that area). Instead, draw people's eyes upward, by choosing bold prints or bright colors for the top half of your swimsuit. By looking online for bikini swimsuits for women, you'll discover photos, designs, prices and savings. You can search by size, color, padding level, panty style or swim style.

Apple-Shaped Figures

These are characterized by a fuller midsection, with weight evenly distributed around the waistline. When it comes to swimwear, the key is to draw attention away from the midsection. In turn, you can create a more balanced silhouette. One option is to opt for swimsuits with ruching or gathering at the waistline. This helps to camouflage any tummy bulges, while accentuating curves in all the right places. Another flattering swimwear choice for apple-shaped figures is tankinis. These two-piece swimsuits offer more coverage than traditional bikinis. At the same time, they still allow you to show off some skin.

Tankini tops that are slightly longer can help conceal the midsection. They can also be a comfortable and stylish option for lounging by the pool or strolling along the beach. Additionally, high-waisted bikini bottoms or swim skirts can be great choices. They provide additional coverage and support in the midsection area.

Athletic Builds

These are often characterized by a well-defined musculature, and strong physique. Such people are often admired for their toned bodies. When it comes to swimwear, these individuals have various options to flatter their figures. One popular choice is a classic one-piece swimsuit. This can accentuate the waistline and showcases the sculpted muscles of the arms and legs. This type of swimwear often features strategic cutouts or mesh panels. They can add an element of style, without compromising coverage.

For those who prefer a two-piece option, try a high-waisted bikini bottom, paired with a crop top or sports bra. These styles draw attention to the defined abdominal muscles, while providing ample support during water activities. Bikinis or one-piece swimsuits with adjustable straps can provide support for larger busts often associated with athletic builds. Sporty individuals may also opt for bold patterns or vibrant colors. These can show off their confidence and energy in the pool or at the beach.

Rectangular-Shaped Bodies

These lack defined curves, and have a more straight up-and-down silhouette. For individuals with this body type, choose swimwear options that add definition and create curves. One option is to go for swimsuits with ruffles or draping details around the bust and hip areas. These features can help create an illusion of curves (e.g. the appearance of a fuller chest) and add volume where needed.

High-cut bottoms can make legs appear longer and accentuate the hips. Choosing swimsuits in bold prints, cutouts or strategic patterns can add visual interest to this body type. These design elements can help break up the straight lines of the body, and give the look of a more defined waistline.

Petit Frames And Plus Sizes

Petite frames typically refer to individuals who are shorter in height, and have a smaller overall body structure. It can be hard to find swimwear that doesn't overwhelm their figure, or make them appear even smaller. It's wise to opt for swimsuits with higher cuts on the legs. These can help create the illusion of longer legs, and give the appearance of a taller frame. Choosing prints or patterns that are smaller in scale can prevent overwhelming their small stature. Additionally, consider wearing one-piece swimsuits with cutouts or strategic ruching. They can provide flattering shapes without overwhelming their figure.

Plus-size individuals often struggle to find swimwear that provides enough coverage and support, while still being stylish. High-waisted bikini bottoms paired with supportive bikini tops can help accentuate curves, and provide desired coverage. Tankini tops with built-in bras or underwires are ideal for those seeking additional bust support.

If you're pregnant, it's worth researching maternity wear to allow for your changing shape. With the right research and choices, you'll be all set. You'll have the perfect swimwear to flatter your body and maximize enjoyment.

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