The Best Bathing Suits for Women: Top Picks for Every Body Type

Finding the perfect bathing suit can be a challenge, especially with so many styles, cuts, and fits to choose from. The right suit can make all the difference in how you feel while lounging by the pool or hitting the waves. Whether you have an hourglass shape, a pear shape, or a straight silhouette, there’s a bathing suit out there that will accentuate your best features and boost your confidence. In this article, we’ll explore the best bathing suits for women based on different body types, helping you find your perfect fit.

1. Best Bathing Suits for Hourglass Figures

If you have an hourglass figure, characterized by a balanced bust and hip measurement with a defined waist, you’re in luck! Almost any style will complement your shape, but there are certain styles that really highlight your curves.

Top Picks:

• Belted One-Piece Swimsuit: This style cinches at the waist and accentuates your curves while offering coverage and support. Look for one-piece suits with a plunging neckline for an added touch of glamour.
• High-Waisted Bikini: High-waisted bottoms paired with a supportive bikini top will emphasize your narrow waist and balanced proportions. This style also provides extra tummy control, enhancing your natural shape.
• V-Neck One-Piece: A deep V-neck will elongate your neck and draw attention to your waist while maintaining balance between your bust and hips.

Why It Works:

• Emphasizes curves without overwhelming them.
• Highlights the natural waist, creating an hourglass silhouette.
• A wide variety of styles work, allowing you to experiment with different looks.

2. Best Bathing Suits for Pear-Shaped Bodies

Pear-shaped bodies typically feature a smaller bust, narrower shoulders, and wider hips. The key to flattering a pear shape is drawing attention to the upper body while balancing the proportions.

Top Picks:

• Bandeau or Off-Shoulder Bikini Tops: These styles help to broaden the shoulders and draw attention upward. Pair with a solid or dark-colored bottom to minimize focus on the hips.
• Halterneck One-Piece: A halterneck swimsuit creates the illusion of a broader upper body, helping balance out wider hips. Look for one-piece swimsuits with gathering or ruching around the stomach area for added tummy control.
• High-Cut Bottoms: High-cut bikini bottoms elongate the legs and accentuate the waistline, giving you a more balanced overall look.

Why It Works:

• Adds volume and focus to the upper body, balancing the proportions.
• High-waisted or high-cut bottoms help elongate the legs.
• Tops with embellishments or patterns draw attention to the neckline.

3. Best Bathing Suits for Apple-Shaped Bodies

Apple-shaped bodies typically have a larger bust, broader shoulders, and a rounder midsection. The goal for apple shapes is to create balance and elongate the torso.

Top Picks:

• Tankinis: Tankinis are a great option as they offer more coverage and can help smooth out the midsection. Opt for styles with a slightly looser fit around the stomach area to create a more balanced silhouette.
• V-Neck or Deep Scoop One-Piece: A V-neckline will draw attention downward, creating a longer, leaner look. One-piece swimsuits with strategic shaping or ruching around the waist are also excellent for tummy control.
• Supportive Underwire Bikinis: Underwire bikinis with wide straps provide ample support and structure for the bust, allowing you to feel secure and confident.

Why It Works:

• A V-neck or scoop neck elongates the torso and draws attention away from the midsection.
• Tankinis provide extra coverage while allowing for more flexibility in fit.
• Structured tops with underwires provide support for the bust and help define the shape.

4. Best Bathing Suits for Straight or Athletic Bodies

Women with a straight or athletic body type often have a more rectangular shape, with similar bust, waist, and hip measurements. The key to flattering this body type is adding curves and creating a more defined waist.

Top Picks:

• Belted One-Piece Swimsuit: A belted or cinched waist one-piece adds shape and creates the illusion of curves. Look for swimsuits with ruching, draping, or cutouts to add definition to the body.
• Bikini with Ruffled or Peplum Top: Ruffled or peplum bikini tops add volume to the bust and hips, creating the appearance of more curves. Pair with a simple bottom to keep the focus balanced.
• Halterneck or Triangle Bikini Top: A halterneck or triangle bikini draws attention to the shoulders and creates curves by emphasizing the bust.

Why It Works:

• Ruching, belted waistbands, or peplum designs add dimension and shape.
• Ruffled or textured tops create the illusion of curves, enhancing the bust and hips.
• A defined waist helps create more feminine curves and a more hourglass look.

5. Best Bathing Suits for Full Figures

For women with fuller figures, it’s important to choose swimsuits that offer support, coverage, and a flattering fit without compromising on style. The goal is to create balance and accentuate curves while providing comfort and confidence.

Top Picks:

• Full-Coverage One-Piece: A full-coverage one-piece swimsuit provides ample support and smooths out any areas you may want to minimize. Look for one-pieces with built-in bras or underwires for added support.
• High-Waisted Bikini: High-waisted bikini bottoms are a great option for fuller figures as they provide tummy control while creating a smooth, flattering silhouette. Pair with a supportive top, such as a halterneck or tank-style bikini, for balanced proportions.
• Swim Dresses: If you prefer more coverage, swim dresses are a stylish option that provides both tummy control and a feminine look. Opt for swim dresses with a structured built-in swimsuit to ensure proper support.

Why It Works:

• Full-coverage swimsuits provide support and smooth out any areas for a flattering fit.
• High-waisted bottoms or swim dresses offer extra coverage without sacrificing style.
• Swimwear with built-in bras or underwires ensures comfort and support for a full figure.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Shape with the Right Bathing Suit

The best bathing suits for women are the ones that make you feel comfortable, confident, and stylish. By understanding your body type and selecting swimsuits that accentuate your natural curves, you can embrace your shape and enjoy your time in the sun. Whether you’re looking for a flattering one-piece, a supportive bikini, or a swim dress, there are endless options to suit your needs. Remember, the perfect bathing suit is one that makes you feel great—so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and find the one that works for you!