How to Choose a Swimsuit

Co-authored by Erin Micklow

Last Updated: December 7, 2021

Choosing a swimsuit can feel like an overwhelming task! There are so many options and new style trends every year. Don’t worry, though—we’re here to help. Keep reading for plenty of tips on how to choose a swimsuit that’s flattering, high-quality, and true to your sense of style.

Method 1

Method 1 of 14:
Choose a one-piece if you want full coverage.

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A traditional one-piece swimsuit is the most modest option. One-piece swimsuits are also often better for exercise, so you might go with this option if you plan to swim laps or do water aerobics.
- You can find more daring one-piece styles if desired, such as a swimsuit with a deep v-neck, low-back, 1 strap, no straps, or side cutouts.^{[1]
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- Go with a high back one-piece to hide back fat and a low-back one-piece to show off your back.
- Try a swim-dress if you also want coverage for your hips and thighs.^{[2]
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- Consider a "modest swimsuit." These cover a wide range of swimsuit types, but the common factor is covering up more skin than a typical tank-style swimsuit. Some women require swimsuits for religious reasons. Some just enjoy the coverage. Others love not having to wear as much sunscreen.
EXPERT TIP

"Look for a vintage reproduction one-piece. Those silhouettes never go out of style."

Erin Micklow
Professional Stylist
Erin Micklow is an independent wardrobe stylist and image consultant based in Los Angeles, California. She has worked in the acting, beauty, and style industries for over 10 years. She has worked for clients such as Hot Topic, Steady Clothing, and Unique Vintage, and her work has been featured in The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Millionaire Matchmaker.

Erin Micklow
Professional Stylist

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Method 2

Method 2 of 14:
Select a bikini if you are comfortable baring your midsection.

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Bikinis are the most daring type of swimsuit. After all, they only cover your breasts and private area! This means that your entire midriff and back will be visible. If you are comfortable showing off your body, then this is a great option for you.
- You can purchase a bikini as a set, or get a coordinating top and bottom to wear together, such as a string bikini top with a bikini skirt bottom, a high-waisted bottom with a strapless top, or a full coverage top with a low-rider boyshort.^{[3]
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- Keep in mind that you may need a different sized bottom and top, which is another reason why it may be better to buy them separately.^{[4]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 14:
Opt for a tankini if you want a more modest two-piece.

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Tankinis can provide full coverage of your waist or show part of your midsection. Select a tankini that shows an amount of skin you are comfortable showing. This is also a great option if you are pregnant since you can get a loose-fitting top to drape over your belly.^{[5]
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- For example, if you want full coverage, then get a tankini top that overlaps the bottom.
- If you want to show part of your hips and waist, then get a tankini that falls just above your belly button.
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Method 4

Method 4 of 14:
Look for details on top to enhance a small chest.

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Ruffles, bold colors and prints, and padding can all help to accentuate your chest. If your chest is on the small side and you want to make it seem bigger, then opt for a swimsuit with extra elements to enhance and draw attention to your chest.^{[6]
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Tip: If you don't want to enhance your bust, go in the opposite direction. Opt for a simple top with no padding or accents, such as a simple triangle top in a muted color.

Method 5

Method 5 of 14:
Get a supportive top if you are full-chested.

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A flimsy swimsuit just won’t cut it. Check the straps and cups on any suit you consider to see if they are well-constructed and sturdy. Go with a halter, racerback, or something with thick straps.^{[7]
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- Avoid string bikinis, strapless suits, and less supportive swimsuits if you have a full chest.
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Method 6

Method 6 of 14:
Wear dark colors to minimize and light colors to accent a body part.

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Light colors draw attention while dark colors are less noticeable. Choose light colors for the part of your body you want to stand out or highlight, and dark colors for the part you want to minimize.^{[8]
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- For example, you could pair a black bottom with a bright red top to minimize your backside and accent your bust.
- Or, pair a white bottom with a navy blue top to minimize your bust and accent your bottom.

Method 7

Method 7 of 14:
Choose full-coverage bottom to distract from your hips.

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These types of bottoms can help make your hips seem smaller and hide imperfections. Go with one of these types of bottoms if your hips are a concern for you.^{[9]
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- For example, you could opt for a bikini, tankini, or one-piece with a sash-bottom, swim-skirt, or boy cut bottom.
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Method 8

Method 8 of 14:
Opt for a suit that fits you well above all else.

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Never get a swimsuit that does not fit you well. The swimsuit should be snug, but not uncomfortably tight on your body.^{[10]
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- For example, if you feel more comfortable in a string bikini than a one-piece, then that is what you should look for. However, if you don't like showing this much skin, choose something that provides more coverage, such as a one-piece or tankini.
- If the swimsuit is baggy or you find it difficult to breathe, then you might want to go with another option.

Method 9

Method 9 of 14:
Move around in the swimsuit to ensure that it moves with you.

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Feel free to walk around, squat, do some jumping jacks, and bend over. Try a variety of movements to make sure that the swimsuit will not come off, bunch up, or expose you as you move in it.^{[12]
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- For example, if the swimsuit bunches up along your backside when you walk, then it might not be a good choice.
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Method 10

Method 10 of 14:
Check the thickness of the swimsuit to see if it's durable.

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Opt for swimsuits made from materials that feel durable and thick. Feel the material of the swimsuit. If it feels flimsy or cheap, then it will probably not last very long.^{[13]
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- Even if the swimsuit is lined well and you cannot see through it, thinner materials will not hold up over time.

Method 11

Method 11 of 14:
Look at yourself from behind to make sure your bottom does not sag.

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The way your backside looks in the swimsuit can also give you a hint about its quality. Check to see if the back of the swimsuit is taut and flattering. If the bottom of the suit looks baggy or saggy, it may not be a high-quality suit.^{[14]
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Tip: Even if the swimsuit has a skirt built into it, lift up the skirt to ensure that the bottom is form-fitting and flattering. You will notice if it fits poorly even if no one else can see it.

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Method 12

Method 12 of 14:
Compare the color of the suit to your skin tone.

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Swimsuits come in a wide range of solids colors and prints. With this in mind, you can express your style with the color you choose. Find a color or print that appeals to you and that will complement your skin tone.^{[15]
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- For example, you might opt for a red and white polka dot swimsuit for a vintage look, a swimsuit with pink roses on it for something feminine and romantic, or a dark brown swimsuit that complements your skin tone.

Method 13

Method 13 of 14:
Look for swimsuits with built-in hardware.

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Built-in hardware saves you from losing jewelry while at the beach or pool. It gives the appearance of jewelry without the risk of losing it.^{[16]
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- For example, you might opt for a black one-piece swimsuit with silver accents along the neckline or a bright blue string bikini with rainbow-colored beads on the ends of the ties.
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Method 14

Method 14 of 14:
Pick a chic coverup to wear over your swimsuit.

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Try picking one that matches or complements your swimsuit. Wear it on your way to and from the pool or beach, which will make it easy for you to slip it off to go for a swim, and back on again to go about your day.^{[17]
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- For example, you could opt for a lavender-colored coverup to wear over a plum one-piece suit, or pair a zebra print coverup with a white bikini.
Tip: Complete your swimsuit look with a comfortable pair of sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, and a pair of sunglasses. And don't forget the sunscreen!

Community Q&A

Question

My dress size is XL. Shall I select size L?

Community Answer

If your dress size is XL, you should probably buy an XL swimsuit. However, if you can fit into a size L comfortably, go ahead.
Question

If I am 13 and I am going to play in the pool. Should I wear a bikini or not? They are all the rage for teens. I don't want to embarrass myself.

Community Answer

Don't do anything you feel uncomfortable with just because everyone else is. You can still look great in a one-piece suit or tankini. Just wear whatever you want to.
Question

I have a big belly, what swimsuit should I wear?

Community Answer

I would suggest a one piece or tankini in a dark color, with some ruffles on the stomach/chest area. The ruffles and the dark color will disguise your stomach.
Question

I have big thighs and I would like to hide my stretch marks on my belly. What type of swimsuit should I get?

Community Answer

I'd recommend an open-back one piece. Pick a color or pattern that's flattering to draw attention away from your thighs.
Question

I have an unusually large chest for my age and a big butt. I am also a little chubby, but I feel like I am fat in the belly and my thighs are huge. What swimsuit do I pick?

Community Answer

You could wear a one piece with padding fitted into it. Also, if you feel like your thighs and belly are fat, you could wear some long, high-waisted shorts. A big butt is also considered attractive, but if you don't want the extra attention, the shorts I mentioned earlier are great at hiding that.
Question

If I'm fat, should I wear a one piece swim suit?

Community Answer

You should wear whatever you think is cute and comfortable. If that's a one piece, awesome. If you like two pieces, go for it. It's your body.
Question

How should I prevent my nipples from showing on my swimsuit?

Community Answer

I would consider buying a swimsuit with padding built into it. If you can't find one in your size, pull your hair forward so that it covers your chest if your hair is long enough. Most people won't be staring at your chest, but it is good to use these options.
Question

Is it okay to wear board shorts if I'm a girl?

Community Answer

Yes! If you want a more traditionally feminine fit, you can also try women's swim shorts.
Question

Do I buy a swimsuit in the size pants that I wear?

Community Answer

It depends on the swimsuit. Most are designed to fit according to traditional sizes, but some companies have their own system.
Question

How do I buy a swimsuit when I have tiny breasts?

Community Answer

Look for a top in the junior's section. If that doesn't work out, you can always get an alteration.