Whether you’re a one-piece or bikini devotee, you can make a flattering statement poolside. We reveal the styles to suit all body shapes
Nothing says ‘holiday’ like a new bikini or swimsuit – or three. With so much variety, it’s difficult to select just one piece of swimwear for your suitcase.
Narrow down your search using your body shape to paddle through the sea of options.
From tropical prints to jewel brights, this season’s trends have been translated into swim-friendly options. All you have to do is decide on the most flattering style for optimum pool posing.
BOTTOM MARVELS
Pear-shaped figures can employ clever trickery to balance out proportions and boost body confidence.
A common mistake is resorting to boy-short bikinis, which can emphasise the area. Instead, opt for full pants that give good rear coverage but have a flattering cut to lengthen your legs to the max.
Choose a swimsuit or bikini with a darker colour on the bottom half. The optical illusion will instantly slice off inches.
CURVE CREATORS
Athletic or boyish figures can plump for curve-enhancing cuts, ruffles, and prints to create the illusion of a bigger bottom and bust.
If you’re looking to boost your chest, try bold prints, horizontal stripes, or cups with cleverly placed ruffles and frills.
TUMMY TAMERS
Swimsuits now rival bikinis in the sexiness department and many of them offer hidden support that slim you in all the right places.
High-tech layers between the lining and outer fabric will hold in tummy overhang that you want to hide. Ensure that you try on for size, as they may feel snugger than usual, depending on the intensity of the support.
WAIST WHITTLERS
The hourglass figure is the elusive swimwear shape. If you’re lucky enough to flaunt a Coca-Cola-bottle body, accentuate it by wearing block-colour bikinis or swimwear in jewel brights to keep your top and bottom half in perfect proportion.
If you don’t fit into this category, cheat. Use panelling and streamlined detailing to cinch in your waist.
