Women's Bathing Suits
From LoveToKnow Swimsuits
Warm weather brings with it sun, surf, sand, and the promise of women's bathing suits aplenty. A diverse selection of styles and colors, available at a wide variety of stores, means shopping for a bathing suit has never been more fun!
What to Look for in Women's Bathing Suits
Once considered a mere cover-up for the woman daring enough to swim in public, swimsuits today are trendy, stylish and as versatile as a great pair of shoes. They are available in a wide variety of styles, colors and fabrics. Some are ideal for competitive and recreational swimmers, while dressier pieces are best for sunbathers who want to show off their fashionable sides.
Don't be daunted by the unlimited selection of suits. There is truly something for everyone, and the important thing is to find a suit that flatters your figure. Take a moment to reflect on what you consider your strongest features. Then focus on the areas you would rather the rest of the world not focus on! The ideal suit draws attention to your standout features while minimizing focus on other areas.
Types of Bathing Suits
There are more styles of women's bathing suits available today than ever before. They include the following:
- Tank: This is the most basic of women's bathing suits, featuring a simple silhouette and an easy, comfortable fit.
- Hi-neck: The hi-neck reaches the collarbone and creates an illusion of an elongated figure.
- Jogger: Available either as a one or two-piece, the jogger suit includes full shorts to conceal the bottom, thighs and hips.
- Tankini: This suit has achieved great popularity in recent years. Sportier and more laid-back than a bikini, it leaves just a small section of the stomach bare.
- Halter bikini: The halter bikini is sweet and simple, with either ties or hooks that connect behind the neck.
- Triangle bikini: More revealing, this bikini's top features triangle-shaped fabric pieces that tie behind the neck and around the back.
- Bralette bikini: This bikini features over-the-shoulder straps similar to a regular bra. It provides great support, especially for women with smaller busts.
- Bandeau bikini: The bandeau-style is strapless and fastens closed with ties or hooks. Many are available with detachable straps.
- Halterkini: Similar to the tankini, the halterkini features a top similar to that of the halter bikini. It ties closed at the neck.
- Bandeau tankini: For a fresh look, consider this unique piece. It offers strapless support and coverage on top.
- Skirtini: An ultra-short skirt conceals an attached bottom and a multitude of flaws, should thick thighs or hips be a concern.
- Monokini: This edgy, revealing suit is great for the woman who dares to bare some skin. The top and bottom are connected in the center, leaving the sides exposed.
Types of Bathing Suit Bottoms
Several types of bathing suit bottoms are also available. They include:
- Boy shorts: These are flattering on almost any body type. They provide coverage of the hips and bottom.
- Scoops: This is the classic bikini bottom in a feminine, pretty shape. It curves slightly beneath the belly button.
- High-waist: Slightly higher than the classic bottom, the high-waist sits just slightly below the belly button.
- Hipsters: Not only do they boast a cool name, they also offer excellent coverage. They are cut to sit straight on the hips.
Swimsuit Shopping How-To
You know your body type. You know what you want to show off and what you would rather keep concealed as much as possible. Based on that, you can select a swimsuit type that best suits your individual needs.
Small Bust
Small-busted women shouldn't be afraid to take advantage of a padded bikini top. It provides just the right amount of cleavage – natural, but not over-the-top. If you prefer a one-piece, try a halter suit that dips slightly lower in the front.
Of course, it's always fun to choose colors and prints that you love. Those with smaller chests should stick to a bright palette. Diagonal stripes in the chest area will also create an illusion of a fuller bust.
Ample Bust
The key is to draw attention away from the bust. To do so, choose a suit that features a darker color on top and a pattern (or a contrasting, lighter shade) on the bottom. It is also important to ensure the suit provides proper support. Look for sturdy straps and full neckline and armhole coverage.
Short Torso
A bikini with a low-rise bottom is ideal for women with short torsos. This type of style serves to lengthen the torso's appearance.
Long Torso
Women with long torsos may benefit from suit bottoms that sit high on the hip. For both short and long torsos, the cut of the leg is the most important factor in choosing appropriate women's bathing suits.
Large Waist and Belly
Slimming vertical stripes are your best friend, and so are color blocks. Tankinis and bandeau tankinis are ideal swimsuits for women who wish to conceal these areas. Try something with a light textured finish to disguise any unwanted rolls of fat.
Large Hips and Thighs
Again, vertical stripes work wonders in creating an illusion of slimness. A suit that is bright on top and dark on the bottom is ideal, as it draws attention away from the lower part of the body.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 18,927 times. This page was last modified 21:11, 13 March 2009.
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