Which swimming costume to choose according to your body type?
The summer season is finally here: the days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising and the idea of escaping to the seaside is becoming more and more appealing. But when you think of the beach (or pool), you think of a swimming costume. While you can wear whatever you like, it's best to take the time to choose a style you'll feel comfortable in. Some cuts are more flattering than others and some swimming costumes are better suited to certain body types. Making the right choice is not complicated. All you need to know is a few best practices for selecting the right piece to enhance your body. Follow our complete guide and find out how to choose the perfect swimming costume for your body type.
- How to know your morphology?
- Which swimming costume should I choose for an A-shaped body?
- Which swimming costume should I choose for a V-shaped body?
- Which swimming costume should I choose for an X-shaped body?
- Which swimming costume should I choose for an H-shaped body?
- Which swimming costume should I choose for a figure 8?
- Which swimming costume should I choose for an O-shaped body?
- Which swimsuit should you choose if you're curvy?
- The tee-shirt dress, a summer piece for every figure
How to know your morphology?
Knowing how to determine your body type is undeniably the first step in the quest for the perfect swimming costume. But how can you do this when you know that every woman and every body is unique? Don't panic, it is possible to easily identify which of the 6 types of morphology our body corresponds to.
- The A shape: very feminine, this shape is characterised by hips that are wider than the shoulders.
- The V shape: more sporty, this shape is distinguished by shoulders that are wider than the hips.
- The X-shaped morphology: this morphology is characterized by a marked waist and a perfect alignment between the shoulders and the hips.
- The H shape: for this shape, the waist is only slightly marked. The shoulders and hips are perfectly aligned.
- The 8 shape: a fuller version of the X shape, the waist is marked but the hips and chest are generously rounded.
- The 0 morphology: this morphology groups together women with generous and harmonious curves.
Have you identified which body type you belong to? Great, now it's time to find out which types of swimwear are best suited to each of these shapes.
On the same subject: Choosing your jewellery according to your body type
Which swimming costume should I choose for an A-shaped body?
For the A-frame, the most important thing is to emphasize the chest. The most suitable shapes for this type of body type are favoured.
For the top :
- For one-piece swimming costumes, use ruffles or prints to create volume in the chest and shoulders.
- For bikinis and other two-piece models, you can choose triangles or strapless bandeaus, preferably coloured or with printed patterns.
- Dare the color sparkling on the top.
For the bottom :
- If you feel uncomfortable with your hips, avoid eye-catching bottoms.
- Choose simple designs, without too much detail or bright colors .
- Also avoid tassels, frills and voluminous details on the sides of the panties.
Which swimming costume should I choose for a V-shaped body?
If you have a V-shaped figure, focus on suits that do not accentuate your shoulders. To maintain a good balance, it is necessary to focus on other details of the body.
For the top :
- Choose asymmetrical pieces or triangular cuts.
- You can also opt for swimwear tops that tie behind the neck.
For the bottom :
- Go for very low cut bottoms, thongs or even Brazilian knickers with bows or tassels.
- If you don't want to show too much of your belly, opt for high-waisted panties which are just as elegant and flattering as the more classic models.
Which swimming costume should I choose for an X-shaped body?
The well-balanced X-shaped silhouette allows you to wear absolutely any swimming costume. You have the luxury of choice: follow your desires and let yourself be tempted by the outfits that catch your eye.
For the top :
- Go for bandeaux or triangles. Dare to wear plunging necklines and extravagant cuts.
- Same freedom in colors and prints. Note that some shades will be more suitable for your skin tone and that you should try several colors before deciding.
For the bottom :
- Same as for the swimwear tops: all the bottoms are adapted to the X shape.
- Low cut, Brazilian cut, high waist, with or without details... Everything is possible.
Which swimming costume should I choose for an H-shaped body?
With the H shape, focus on outfits that will break up the body lines and create volume to enhance your figure.
For the top :
- Ideally, you should opt for styles with a bit of original detailing. For example, swimming costume tops with a single strap or with a plunging neckline.
- Regarding colors and prints, you can afford anything as long as you feel comfortable.
For the bottom :
- Look for panties that show off your waist. High waists are a good choice, as are panties that ride high on the hip.
- If you prefer One-piece swimsuits, choose a model with a marked waist to emphasize your shape and enhance your silhouette.
Which swimming costume should I choose for a figure 8?
Resolutely sensual and feminine, the figure 8 is generally the one that requires the least effort. So there's no need to overdo it. If your body belongs to this type of morphology, the simplest thing to do is to select simple yet elegant swimming costumes that will adapt to all styles and situations.
For the top :
- Let yourself be tempted by a safe bet: a bandeau or a classic triangle top.
- For one-pieces, also opt for a simple look with discreet details and small necklines.
- On the side of colors and prints, it is advisable to stay on plain or discreet tones to not overload the composition.
For the bottom :
- The right reflexes to adopt are the same here: favour classic swimming costume bottoms, such as knotted briefs, bikinis with a low cut or even discreet thongs.
- At the level of colors, stay in the same tones as the top to keep a real harmony.
Which swimming costume should I choose for an O-shaped body?
For O-shaped figures, it is essential to choose outfits that will give you real support around the bust. The golden rule: choose swimming costumes that you feel good in and that you will wear proudly all summer long, on the beach or by the pool.
For the top :
- Keep an eye on the straps: they should be wide enough to support your chest perfectly. If you can find a swimming costume with adjustable straps, that's even better.
- If you have a large bust, don't hesitate to choose an underwired top. This will make it even more comfortable for you.
- In any case, choose a top that perfectly envelops your chest (it would be a shame to lose it in the first wave).
For the bottom :
- Choose stockings that you feel comfortable and pretty in.
- If you opt for a two-piece, high-waisted panties will guarantee you an ideal fit.
- Avoid low-cut stockings at all costs if you don't like them.
- Finally, if you want to feel perfectly comfortable, a one-piece swimming costume is the best choice.
Which swimsuit should you choose if you're curvy?
If you have a few curves, then choose models that flatter your figure while ensuring optimum comfort:
- One-piece swimsuits with details like draping or gathers at the waist are great allies when you've got a bit of a tummy, as they offer good coverage while remaining elegant.
- High-waisted bikini bottoms are also an excellent option, as they support and smooth the lower tummy. There's no better way to feel comfortable in your own body.
- You can also accessorize with matching pareos or beach tunics for a look that's both elegant and confident.
- Finally, choose materials such as Lycra or nylon/elastane blends for optimum support.
The tee-shirt dress, a summer piece for every figure
Once you've found the ultimate swimming costume, all you have to do is slip into it before heading to the beach or enjoying an ice cream. However, walking down the street in a bikini can be a bit tricky... The solution? Adopt the T-shirt dress, a versatile piece that fits absolutely everyone. Easy to put on and perfect for the warm weather, it is the ideal summer garment to wear without moderation all summer long. A must-have.
To find out more, read on for our complete guide to tee-shirt dresses.