Knowing what works for your body shape can take the “ugh” out of swimsuit shopping.
PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK
Swimwear for body shapes: Simply Sweet
Pairing an asymmetrical bikini top with retro-style bottoms is guaranteed to add curves to any rectangular frame. As the one-shoulder top and high-waist bottoms call on the power of strong lines to envelop the body, a soft pink hue just makes this silhouette that much sweeter.
Old Navy Texture-Stripe One-Shoulder Top, $27, and High-Rise Bottoms, $37 at oldnavy.ca.
PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK; LA VIE EN ROSE
Swimwear for body shapes: Magic Mix
It starts with the colour block construction, moves on to the elongating stripes and finishes strong with a floral layer that’ll distract more than attract. Oh, and don’t overlook the built-in bandeau top. There’s more than one design trick at work here, but the bottom line is that any tummy troubles shall fade away.
La Vie En Rose One-Piece Swimsuit with Bow, $76 at laveenrose.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK
Swimwear for body shapes: Beast Mode
From the bold red palette to the gathered texture and extended bandeau top, everything about this suit is unexpected. And it all works! The longline top with ruffled strap details make this top ideally suited for anyone looking to balance the appearance of curvy hips and thighs.
Ganni Shirred Leopard Print Bikini, US $190, at net-a-porter.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK; HOLT RENFREW
Swimwear for body shapes: Ballerina Girl
A knockout suit doesn’t always demand a lot of bells and whistles. Sometimes, it’s all about a classic cut in a surprisingly gorgeous shade FTW. If you’ve got an hourglass shape, keep this maillot with plunging neckline in mind.
Vitamin A One-piece Swimsuit, $220, at Holt Renfrew.
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Swimwear for body shapes: Haute Tropic
You betcha this print’s fabulous but it’s what’s on the inside that counts—especially when it comes to swimwear designed to support a large chest effortlessly. Underwire and side boning are two essential details that won’t let you down. It also pays to look for substance in two key elements: the shoulder straps and in the cut of bikini bottoms. This swimsuit earns major points for comfort alongside adjustable, multi-way options.
Seafolly F Cup Halter Bikini Top, $162, and Active Multi Strap Hipster Bikini Bottom, $80 at swimco.com.
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Swimwear for body shapes: Check Mate
How to make a gingham swimsuit less sweet and more sassy? Start with a chunky black and white pattern and add a peek-a-boo detail. Besides upping the sass factor, did you know cut-out panels can flatter a range of body shapes? A perfect fit all comes down to placement and proportions (i.e. you may have to try on a few), but they can magically enhance a frame whether column-shaped or extra curvy.
Marshalls One-Piece Swimsuit, $35 at Marshalls stores.
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Swimwear for body shapes: Frill Seeker
Ruffled details are tailor made to draw attention to your top half. This bikini top works overtime thanks to its criss-cross ruffles in an off-the-shoulder design that runs right across the body. Down below, matching high waist bottoms sporting clever diagonal stripes compliment ample hips and booty.
H&M Bikini Top with Sleeves, $30, and High-Waist Bottoms, $20 at hm.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK; BILLABONG
Swimwear for body shapes: Special FX
There’s nothing but good things to see here—especially if you’re concerned about your mid-section. Colour and pattern join forces, as a rainbow of balanced bright and dark tones converge in a strong V to deliver a very slimming effect. The plunging neckline helps, too.
Billabong One-Piece Swimsuit, $110, at Bikini Village.
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Swimwear for body shapes: Nice ’n Nautical
When you don’t want the girls to be the center of attention, try a bit of bait-and-switch. This dynamic duo uses strategic panels of colour and print to help elongate the torso, plus the high neckline helps contains a bustline. Meanwhile, fully printed bottoms complete with side ties demand more visual consideration to help even things out.
Joe Fresh Halter Swim Top, $24, and Striped Ruched Bikini Bottom, $20 at joefresh.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK; ZARA
Swimwear for body shapes: More is More
Those blessed with a small chest can pull off heavily embellished necklines with ease. Lots of printed options abound, but solid colour can pack just as chic a punch. In a minimalist black and white combo, this beauty brings maximum glamour to any pool party or lakeside appearance. It’s a style that’s totally timeless and ultra-modern all at once, which is never a bad way to make a splash.
Zara Halterneck Swimsuit, $50 at zara.com.