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You are planning to go on a sunny vacation or just considering taking a trip to the beach and are looking for a perfect swimsuit. There is a lot to choose from and the process can take ages if you try on every single style and color swimwear there is on the market.
It will take less time and effort if you already know what looks good on you so the search for a perfect swimsuit is narrowed. Swimsuit styles look differently on body shapes and the guide below shows how to establish what body shape you have and what styles look best on you. This page will show you how to pick the right swimsuit for your body type.
Tips
- Horizontal stripes make a shape appear wider and vertical stripes make it look longer. So to lengthen the body you can go for vertical striped one-piece, whereas to emphasize hips and bust a horizontal-striped bikini can be chosen.
- Bright colors empasize and dark monotone colors disguise, so if you want to for instance accentuate the bust while hiding the middle part in a one-piece or tankini, choose a bright warm color for the top (yellow, orange, red, green) and go for a darker one for the middle (black, brown, grey).
- A swimsuit must be well fitted. It can't be too loose, especially if you intend to swim as to avoid a game of pick-a-boo. Swimsuit also should not be too small and dig into the skin, as it is not comfortable and will make you look bigger.
- When selecting a two piece swimsuit try different top and bottom sizes and ask the retailer if you can mix and match.
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Introduction
To get started you will need a tape measure and a calculator (or the Internet program that converts values in percentages). Step 1 describes how to measure yourself and Step 2 shows what body shape you have together with swimsuit style suggestions. It may be a good idea to spend enough time on taking accurate body measurements, as you only need to do it once. Right measurements will not only help you define your body shape, but can help when buying a swimsuit abroad where size charts are different. -
How to Choose the Perfect Swimwear for your Body
This swimwear selection guide will provide you with info on what styles work best with different body types and give you suggestions on how to enhance or cover parts of the body for a balanced look. Some swimwear mentioned in the guide and tips on how to choose a swimsuit can be found in this video.
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Take Your Measurements
To start, pick up a measuring tape and take the measurements of your bust, waist and hips. Bust and hips are measured at the fullest parts and true waist is the smallest part just above the belly button and is also normally located 9 inches above the hip line.Once you have your measurements, convert them into percentages. For example if your bust is 40 inch and the waist is 36, the bust is 110% of the waist.
Now that you have your measurements you can see which of the body shapes listed below fits best and choose the perfect swimsuit. There are 5 common female body shapes: Apple, Pear, Banana, Hourglass and Round.
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Apple Body Type
The waist is at most 75% of the chest, and the chest is at least 110% of the hips. Apple shaped women tend to have broader shoulders and larger busts comparing to narrow hips. Actress Gina La Piana has an apple shape. A halter top adds support but also makes the bust appear bigger. A bandeau (strapless) swimsuit whether one or two piece will work great if you want bust and shoulders to appear smaller. A hip length V-neck caftan will draw attention to the legs and it is also advisable to wear a heavy shoe (wedges) to balance the look. -
Pear Body Type
The waist is at least 75% of the chest, and the hips are at least 110% of the chest. Narrow bust and torso with heavier hips and thighs are common for pear shaped women like Rihanna and Jennifer Lopez. A halter neck or wonderbra effect top works great to accentuate the bust and balance the body. High-waisted bikini bottoms will make the legs appear longer and leaner and emphasize your narrow waist. The look can be finished with a floor or knee length beach skirt. -
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Banana Body Type
The waist is at least 75% of the chest or hips, which are virtually the same. Most catwalk models are banana shaped, including actress Cameron Diaz and singer Celine Dion. Ruffled and accessorized bikinis and monokinis work great to accentuate bust and hips. If you are tall, ruffled low rise shorts can add curves. You can finish the look with multiple accessories: bracelets, necklaces, charms, etc because you can pull it off and they will help you stand out. -
Hourglass Body Type
The waist is less than 75% of the chest or hips, which are virtually the same, where bust and hips measurements are almost equal with a significantly narrow waist. Sophia Loren, Scarlett Johansson and Marilyn Monroe all have an hourglass shape. Most swimsuits look great on an hourglass frame. A classic small bikini will emphasize every body curve and for those who don’t want to reveal too much a classic one-piece can do the trick. Be careful not to pick a one-piece in monotone colors as it can make you look older. Choose accessories wise and do not overdo it. A hip chain or a couple of bracelets paired with a wrap skirt above the knee will complete the look. -
Round Body Type
The waist is at least 110% of the hips. Celebrities with round body shape include Queen Latifah and Magda Szubanski. A loose tankini with a halter top will draw attention to the bust and away from the stomach. It is advisable to avoid shorts as they make the legs appear shorter. To draw attention to the legs, however, a hip length beach caftan can be worn. -
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Choosing the Right Swimsuit for Your Body Type - Associated ...
We all hate spending hours in the fitting room to find the perfect swimsuit. Learn about some of the things that you may want to think about when choosing the right swimsuit for yo...associatedcontent.com
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