Swimsuit Dress for Success … finding the right swimsuit for your body
For people with perfect bodies, bathing suits are all about showing off. For the other 99 percent of us, they involve a strategy consisting of equal parts concealment (where did that belly and muffin top go?) and flattery (yes, we all have our finer points). That's where selecting the swimsuit that suits you come in. Our favorites have fetching details that draw eyes to the right places, hidden support that reshapes you and mix-and-match separates that give the very best fit. Here's the bottom line: You can look functional this summer or you can look fantastic; it's up to you. So forget your fear of fluorescent lighting and three-way mirrors. Use this cute-suit crib sheet now and happily show your face, great legs and bottom at the beach, pool or your own backyard this summer.
Know your body type.
Be honest with yourself about what your best features are – and what parts you shouldn’t accentuate or highlight. Just like a pair of pants or a dress, certain fits will make your body look better than others. For instance, a bandeau top is typically more flattering on women with smaller busts. Larger breasted women should use an under wire top or something with extra support. |
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One-pieces are great for plus size women, but just because you are not a size 2 does not mean you must shun a two-piece. If you have larger legs and a smaller torso or if you have very broad shoulders a one piece might actually emphasize your flaws. Don’t automatically assume a one-piece bathing suit is more flattering than a bikini.
Pay attention to detail on the suit itself:
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Colors and patterns are very important and can make your body look better or worse. As an example, a solid color usually draws less attention to the rear. Conversely, if you are small busted and self conscious about it you can play up your bust with a swimsuit top that has bold patterns and colors. Playful suits with ruffles, logos, or really bold designs in certain areas can help draw attention towards one area of your body while masking others.
Fit is everything. Just like a business suit, a wedding dress, or a pair of jeans, the fit of the swimsuit is the most important item. Don’t worry about what size you are wearing. Too many women get hung up on trying to “fit into” size X because they don’t want to be in a size larger. If a 10 fits better than an 8, even if you are usually an 8, get the 10!
Find a suit that does not pinch (you should not get bulging above and/or below any of the straps or material). Go up a size if you feel pinched.
The swimsuit bottom should not be baggy in the front or the back. You want the bottom to contour your rear without pinching and without sagging. Women who would like to elongate their legs should wear a tie side or a thin hipster bottom with a high arch. Tie sides make the legs look longer.
With the top, always do the bottom strap first as tight as possible (don’t lose circulation!) and then tie the top around your neck. This has a dramatic effect on how the top looks.
Women who want to de-emphasize their butt should wear less fabric. The less fabric you have the smaller the target for people’s eyes. The more fabric, the bigger the butt will look. Also, another tip to draw the eyes away from the buttocks would be to wear a top that is eye catching. It can be more colorful, have jewelry, have a pattern or anything else that would catch attention. Then pair this top with a solid darker color. |
Disguise your waist:
Tankinis are wonderful options for those who like the movement of a two-piece but are not quite ready to bare their bellies. The tankini will generally also come in a variety of bottoms, offering as much or as little coverage as you desire. A one-piece with light shirring or gathering will also flatter the waist. Draw the attention upward by finding a suit with patterns or bright colors on the top and darker colors near the bottom.
Minimize your stomach:
One-pieces with ruching or gathered fabric along the seams will diminish the appearance of your tummy. Also try styles that have a surplice (crossing swaths of fabric) diagonally across the body
State of mind is important:
Do not go swimsuit shopping after a long day of eating or shopping or after a hard day at work. You will think NOTHING looks good because you are already in a tired, possibly negative state of mind. If possible, try to go swimsuit shopping in the morning or early afternoon after you’ve exercised and drank lots of water (no sugary soft drinks!). Your body always looks its best after a workout and ample water.
REMEMBER:
We are our own worst critic. You probably look better than you think! Don’t compare yourself to how another woman looks in a swimsuit. Focus only on what bathing suit makes you feel most confident in YOUR body.
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