How to Find a Swimsuit That Fits and Feels Good

Swimsuit shopping can bring up a lot of feelings. It’s easy to get caught up in worries about how we look, but finding the right swimwear isn’t about changing your body, it’s about choosing something that helps you feel comfortable, supported and confident.

The most important thing to remember? Every body is worthy of enjoying the sun, the sea, and a swimsuit that feels good to wear.

This guide shares practical tips to help you choose swimwear that works with your shape, not against it.

Getting to Know Your Shape

Bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and each one is unique. But understanding your proportions can help when it comes to choosing clothes, especially swimwear.

Here are some helpful suggestions based on five general body shapes: hourglass, pear, rounded, rectangle and inverted triangle.

Hourglass Shape

Your shape: Balanced hips and shoulders with a naturally defined waist.

Swimwear ideas:

• Styles that highlight your waist, like belted or wrap swimsuits, can feel especially flattering.

• Structured tops offer support and enhance your natural shape.

• High-cut legs or mid-rise bottoms can work well with your proportions.

• Try prints or colour blocking to celebrate your balanced figure.

Pear Shape

Your shape: Your hips are wider than your shoulders, with a softer upper body.

Swimwear ideas:

• Draw the eye upward with details like ruffles, off-the-shoulder cuts or lighter colours on top.

• Keep bottoms simple in darker shades or subtle prints.

• A high-leg cut can help create a sense of length.

• Flowy tankinis or peplum styles offer gentle coverage and movement.

Rounded Shape

Your shape: A fuller bust and midsection, with a softer waistline.

Swimwear ideas:

• Ruching or gathered fabric can offer comfort and create gentle shape.

• Supportive tops with wider straps and soft shaping can feel secure.

• V-necklines and wrap styles help open up the neckline and add length.

• Diagonal prints and side panels can create a subtle, streamlined effect.

Rectangle Shape

Your shape: Shoulders, waist and hips are fairly aligned, with a more athletic silhouette.

Swimwear ideas:

• Look for details that add softness or curve—like frills, ruching, or padded tops.

• Side ties or belted styles can help create more waist definition.

• Asymmetrical cuts or wrap designs add movement and interest.

• Choose styles with a mix of textures or patterns to break up a straighter frame.

V Shape

Your shape: Your shoulders or bust are broader than your hips.

Swimwear ideas:

• Softer necklines like v-necks or scoop shapes help balance the upper body.

• Look for bottoms with ruffles, side details or lighter colours to add fullness below.

• Colour blocking with a darker top and lighter bottom works beautifully.

• Mid-rise bottoms and simple, well-fitting tops create an easy, balanced look.

Helpful Tips for All Shapes

• Shorter legs: A high-cut leg can gently lengthen your silhouette.

• Smaller bust: Ruffles, texture or lightly padded cups can add shape and detail.

• Fuller bust: Wider straps and supportive tops help with comfort and lift.

• Fuller midsection: Look for soft fabrics, ruching, or prints to create gentle shaping.

• Broader shoulders: Styles with wider straps or curved necklines can create visual harmony.

• Highlight what you love: Whether it’s your legs, waist, back or shoulders—let your favourite features shine.

About Sizing

Swimsuit sizing can be inconsistent and it’s completely normal to size up. A swimsuit that feels good, stays in place, and allows you to move freely is far more important than what the tag says. Be kind to yourself and choose comfort first.

Final Thoughts

Every body is a beach body. You deserve to enjoy your time by the water without overthinking how you look. The right swimsuit is the one that fits your body, supports your needs, and helps you feel relaxed and ready to enjoy the moment.

If you'd like gentle, personalised support in finding swimwear that suits your shape and your lifestyle, I’d love to help through a one-to-one styling session.