At Last, The Perfect Bathing Suit for Your Body.
You just can't deny it anymore. It's time to pull out your swimsuit. If it's been a while, why not invest in something new that makes you feel fabulous? After all, if it's not working for you- it's not you, it's the suit. As a personal stylist in Seattle, I'm well aware of the mysteries involved in finding the right swimsuit for your figure. So, this week we'll be diving into finding the right suit for you. Our first post in this series is all about the ideal suit to flatter your figure right now. Here we go!
Know Your Body, Know Your Swimsuit.
1. Triangle silhouette.
Draw attention up top by choosing a suit with bright colors or embellishments up top. Cleavage draws the eyes up and that can be created with texture or an underwire top, as well. On the bottom, go for an arched leg line. You are looking for something that hits about an inch below the hip bone. Another option, a mid-rise waistline with pattern or prints that draw attention to your waist shows off a smaller waist while distracting from larger thighs. A larger bum looks great in this season's must have- a retro high-waisted brief.
Yes, a swim skirt is flattering for your figure, but you'll want to be especially particular to keep it current.
Create the illusion of curves by drawing attention to your hips and bust through print and texture. Ruffles, hardware and patterns are best. Avoid solid colors, basic stripes and sharp lines that make your body look angular. Padding and wide set straps can be helpful, too.
3. Diamond silhouette.
You are living the dream this year. Hiding your tummy is easy with a high waisted bottom and those are all the rage for the upcoming warm weather. Tankinis are great for you with soft a-line tanks that skim your frame and fall slightly over your bottoms, rather than a tight tank with bottoms that creates a muffin top. Avoid suits that draw attention to your mid section with belts, patterns that emulate belts or string bikini bottoms. Ruching also provides support and is forgiving.
4. Hourglass silhouette.
While your body is perfectly proportioned, it can be challenging to find a suit that gives you the support up top that you need. Go for structure and support above all else- underwire, adjustable straps, wide straps, boning, etc. If you don't need extra support at the bust, a fun two piece like the striped option above works well, too.
You may be more comfortable in a higher neckline, that's a personal preference. The key is ensuring that you have the support you need to enjoy yourself in the water without a concern about your suit. Ensure that the armholes are higher. As always, highlighting your mid-section is a great way to show off your figure. Go for suits with belts or patterns that have the same effect.
5. Inverted triangle silhouette.
As with clothes, your goal is to balance out your frame by drawing attention to your lower half. Raglan sleeves are great for broad shoulders and I'm absolutely channeling one of my clients who is sporty and has an inverted triangle body shape. Sure the pattern draws attention up top, but if you are going to do it, do it with a raglan sleeve or a deep v-neck suit. In this case, I'd pair with red bottoms to balance out your frame. Otherwise, dark tops paired with bright and embellished bottoms are the way to go for you. Color blocking can accomplish this as easily as the cut of the suit.
6. Long Torso (AKA Long Waisted) silhouette.
If you are especially long waisted and have trouble finding one piece swimsuits, J.Crew if your friend this year. If you aren't into the aesthetic, not to worry. Simply opt for a two piece.
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