What’s not to love about summer? Long, warm days, the sun, fun weekends, ice cream, the beach… Well, speaking of the beach, I can think of something a lot of us don’t love: bathing suit shopping. Body positivity aside, I can think of few things that can deflate self-esteem more than shopping for a swimsuit. But this summer, you don’t have to fall into that trap! It’s not so terrible when you know the secrets to finding a flattering bathing suit. So follow these tips and you’re sure to find something that will make you look and feel fabulous at the beach or pool this summer!
1.Know where to shop.
Choose a store that has a nice variety of styles and sizes, a helpful sales staff, and comfortable fitting rooms with full-length mirrors and good lighting.
2.Don’t rush.
Allow yourself enough time to try on enough options. Take your time considering how each one looks on you, and how you feel in it.
3. Bring a friend.
Some people like to do this alone, but it can be helpful to shop with someone who will give you an honest opinion.
4.Test it out.
Move around a little to make sure everything stays put: straps stay up, legs don’t ride up, and front doesn’t sag.
5. Try on a lot of suits.
Try a range of sizes and styles- sometimes you need to try everything until you find the best one for you. Also, remember that you really can’t judge from the hanger- you have to actually see a suit on your body to know if it works.
6. Don’t get hung up on size numbers.
Bathing suits typically run smaller than clothing, so you might need to size up and that’s perfectly okay. Don’t feel bad about it!
7. If you’re in between sizes, go with the smaller.
The material will stretch when it’s wet. The fit on a swimsuit should be comfortable, but snug.
8. Wear underwear.
Hygiene!
9. Flatter your skin tone.
Choose colors and patterns that go well with your skin tone.
10. Consider separates.
No one has a perfectly proportioned body and separates might be the answer if you’re a different size on top and bottom.
11. Shop online.
Some women prefer this option for privacy, comfort, and softer lighting. Make sure you can easily get refunds before you place your order.
12. Know your body type.
This is essential for choosing the most flattering bathing suit for you. Here is a brief guide for working with your body:
- large bust: dark, solid color on top; thick, strong straps and underwire for support.
- small chest: bright colors and prints, ruffles across the chest; padding.
- large tummy: high-waisted bikini to avoid muffin top; shirring or ruching across the stomach.
- large hips: vertical stripes or patterns; bright on top, dark bottom.
- large thighs: high-cut legs to give the illusion of longer, thinner thighs.
Now that you know the guidelines, swimsuit shopping doesn’t have to be a seasonal chore to dread! Go shopping and have some fun!
