However, for many women choosing new swimwear is often a gut-wrenching experience as all the hidden rolls of lockdown excesses are unveiled. Often a sobering realisation, it’s often the path of best compromise that is the best route.
So let me help you with a few style hacks to improve the situation.
Firstly, always go for a colour you know really suits you and is great for your skin tone. Ignore every other swimsuit in the shop or online and focus only on the ones in a colour that suits you – this will immediately cut down a fair proportion of the options, saving valuable time and heartache.
Then think about your body shape.
If you have an hourglass body shape, choose a two piece with under-wiring or built-in support for maximum comfort. Avoid gathering on the bust or hips and instead opt for plunge necklines and hip ties. Bright, colourful asymmetric swimsuits in either solid colours or small prints are good options. Be careful to avoid anything that cuts you off mid - hip to avoid a ‘muffin top’!
If you have wider shoulders than waist and hips – an inverted triangle body shape - halter and square necklines are great options as they’ll work well with your straight shoulder line. Also consider styles where you can buy separates to give you the freedom to get a look that works best for you...play around with details on the hips, drawing attention to the hips with detailing, embellishments, belts etc. This will balance your broader shoulders.
A tankini that covers your tummy and isn't too figure-hugging or a one piece swimsuit with discreet control panels or ruching will work well for apple or oval shapes. Details on the shoulders will help draw the eye upwards. If you opt for a two piece then choose high-waisted bottoms or tankinis.
While swimsuits with a central panel in a darker colour is a great option if you’re a rectangle - geometric patterns will also look great. Bold prints and feminine prints work well, opt for tops with cups or padding and side-tie, high-leg bikini bottoms.
For those with an ample ‘booty’ and a smaller top half – a pear body shape - then create balance by drawing attention to the upper torso with plunging necklines, halter straps, moulded cups and less detailed, perhaps skirted bottom halves. Solid colours work best for this shape. Consider ruffles on top, high waist and a small print to the areas you’d like to conceal.
As a petite lady choose swimsuits that accentuate the smaller features. Suits with ruffles on top are bottom are helpful, and also swimsuits that are high-waisted to help any curves that are there pop. One piece suits work well.
Hopefully you have a few swimsuit options that you at least feel comfortable in.
Now to elevate the look, consider adding accessories that bring the "look" together, think things like a:
• Pretty sarong, kimono or cover up
• Fabulous wide-brimmed hat
• New sunshades
• Nail polish that goes with your swimsuit
• Beside the pool flip-flops in a funky colour or with a bit of embellishment (make sure they can either stand up to pool/beach wear and tear or that you don't mind them getting destroyed).
Above all, embrace your curves, accept your body – whatever shape or size it may be and wear a confident smile. It’s infectious! Body positivity and self acceptance is like prowess – it simply oozes confidence and positive energy. Dress for your own comfort and be sure to reflect your personality in your choices. Be your own person and celebrate who you are, filter free and authentic. Don’t let the fear of other people’s judgement stop you from being amazing and doing what you love.
