Metallic zip bandeau bikini set €39/£28
Going on holidays but scared of packing swimwear? Fear not, there are wings for every butterfly and so too, can you find a flattering bikini or swimsuit for your shape.
Apple: you are best opting for swimwear that provides good built in support in the bust area and is quite structured. Underwire is key, while wide adjustable straps, boning, seamed cups and sturdy linings are all your friends as they give more support to the chest. This way, you can dive in and out of the pool without having to worry about a wardrobe malfunction. Patterns work so well for those with weight on the top half – small patterns work to minimise while bigger patterns work in the opposite direction.
Tummy trouble: for those with a little bit extra on the tummy area, ruching or textured fabrics are fantastic for creating a slimmer illusion. To me and many of my friends, ruching is the best thing since sliced pan! It gives such a flattering shape to the tummy area and really nips and tucks in the silhouette. You can still opt for a bikini, just pick one with a high waistband that is shirred or folded at the top to give better coverage. Avoid tight fitting tankinis, low-rise bottoms and belt detailing.
Pears: go for bright colours, interesting patterns or something with detailing on the top. Whether it’s a bikini top or swimsuit you opt for, your best bet is to focus attention on your top half, which will automatically divert it away from your bottom. If you opt for a bikini, chose a simple colour on the briefs- nothing fussy and stay away from prints. A skirted bottom is also great giving the illusion of smaller hips.
Lacking curves: so you want to add the illusion of curves to your swimwear. There are lots of ways to do this – extra detailing is a great start. Items with three-dimensional details like ruffles, rings, padding are all great for your shape. What can really work well is a bikini or bathing suit with a halter-neck that gives some definition to the chest as the boob tube shape will just cut you across the middle and make you appear flatter. Get swimwear with lots of embellishments, particularly across the bottom half which will bring attention to the hips and give them the appearance of more volume.
FIVE RULES FOR SWIMWEAR SUCCESS:
- Patterns – smaller ones reduce the illusion of size while bigger ones increase it.
- Tummy tricks – ruching.
- Curve appeal – detailing.
- Pears – Halter-neck.
- Top heavy – keep it simple on top.