Summer can be the season of dread for women who regard stripping Lycra on the beach or by the pool as exposing rather than exciting. But it is possible to make most of any figure with the right advice. Here are a few nifty tips for working our swimwear. This season’s crop includes a new classic style for plus-cup wearers from Sunseeker (above right) and the fabulous starburst Prism print cossie from Moontide (centre) which shapes the body with optical illusion. Whatever your body shape, we hope these pointers may help point you in the right direction…
Fall in love with a one-piece:
A swimsuit doesn’t have to be matronly. It can hide a multitude of sins if the shape and fabric are right for you. It’s usually accepted that a bikini is sexier but a swimsuit can really show off and smooth curves. It’s also sometimes better to hint at your lovely shape rather than to put everything on display.
Try: Cut-away swimsuit, £62, by Sunseeker.
Big Bosoms require careful handling:
It’s easy to feel self conscious in swimwear if your chest is on the generous side but with a well fitted, properly supported swimsuit you can feel secure and know that you’re enhancing your assets. You can also boost what nature nature has given you with underwired bikini tops. Either way, V–shaped necklines are the most flattering and wide straps will balance a heavier shape and add extra support.
Try: Ruched plus cup swimsuit, £62, by Sunseeker.
Enhancing a small but perfectly formed chest:
This can be a great shape to possess because you can easily work a bandeau type bikini or a string bikini. Balconette tops will boost a small bosom with padding and under-wiring although it’s a good idea to keep the enhancement modest and lifelike! A decent fit is as important as it is for a larger chest.
Try: Underwired Bandeau Top, £49, by Moontide.
The added extras that help modest bathers:
Some swimsuits come with deceptively good coverage, using low legs, skirts and shape-enhancing panels that can make most of us feel more confident nowadays. A sarong or beach kaftan sarong will minimize the time you spend feeling exposed but don’t let them drown your figure.
Try: Sheer Leopard Print Poncho, £165, by Roidal.
Leave bikini shorts to those with long legs:
Swimwear with a lower leg can make you appear shorter so avoid them unless your legs can take them. Go instead for a high leg option which extends the figure and is generally more flattering if you have a curvaceous behind. A one-piece swimsuit with a plunging neckline can create the illusion of a lengthened body.
Try: Pin-up Twist Swimsuit, £67, by Moontide
The super-slim have their issues too:
Most people think that skinny women and swimwear go together like Kate and Wills but there are pitfalls to this shape. Solid colors and high necks can create a bean-pole look so opt instead for patterns, bright colors and shapely, cut-out styles. The monokini is great for a sleek look. Tie legs and beading are a cute addition for adding interest.
Try: Prism Halter Swimsuit, £69, by Moontide.
Above all, remember that we all have good and bad points and there are swimwear styles out there for everyone. So enjoy your body and remember that finding the right swimsuit is something everyone has to work at.