Let's face it, swimsuit shopping can sometimes be a daunting task. As women, it can be a challenge to find the perfect bathing suit that enhances parts of our body we like, while camouflaging areas that we might not be too confident about. 

So, let's start by choosing the right suit that suits you!

In this blog, we are going to cover five common female body shapes (although there are more!). The shapes we will be discussing today are Pear, Apple, Rectangle, Inverted Triangle and Hourglass. This guide will help you to decipher what your body shape is, and which swimwear best complements your body! By no means should this hold you back from experimenting with other swimsuit styles!

Pear

A Pear shape is described as slender shoulders, a well-defined waist and hips that are larger than your bust (think Beyoncé). To create balance to your body, the top of your figure should be visually emphasized!

Styles for Pear

For bikini tops, go for a bandeau top! A swim top that has defined cups, prints, ruffles or fringe will help to enhance the bust line. If you have a smaller bust, opt for a push up bra! If you have a larger bust, try an underwire balconette swim top.

For bikini bottoms, the simpler the better! Go for plain colors, and styles that aren't bulky on the sides. Stay away from high-waisted bottoms, since these often have thicker bands. Go for a bikini bottom style like this one.

For one piece swimsuits, go for a style that has cups or underwire. Ruffles or frills near the bust line are ideal.

Apple

You have an apple shaped body if you have full curves, with a rounded tummy, bottom and hips, a generous cleavage and a waist with little definition. You have a voluptuous figure (like Kate Winslet!), so you'll want to focus on a swimsuit that emphasizes your cleavage, optically defines your waist and draws attention away from your tummy.

Styles for Apple

For swim tops, don a top that will support your bust and emphasize your cleavage, like this sport tie top.

For swim bottoms, any that have a higher waist band will help to define your waist! These bottoms by Pualani Hawaii are perfect for providing full coverage and definition.

As far as one piece swimsuits, most apply body type woman choose this route. Try to find a piece that has an underwire bust and beaded details around the neckline and/or waist! 

Rectangle

A rectangular body shape if described as shoulders and hips at equal width, and little to no definition at the waist (think Charles Angel's Cameron Diaz). Go for a swimsuit that redefines your waist and adds fullness to your upper and lower body.

Styles for Rectangle

For a bathing suit top, you can easily go for a triangle top or halter top to balance your shoulders. It's up to you if you want to go for extra padding or au naturel! Your body type has no limitations on color or print (but your skin type might, read more about that here), so you can opt for geometric, tropical, floral, and spotty prints to help enhance the bust. 

For bathing suit bottoms, choose anything that gives fullness to your curves! Try bikini bottoms that have fringe, frill or side ties! Any patterns that are bright and eye-catching are a must.

For one piece swimsuits, opt for a piece with a fairly low neckline that will bring attention to your bust, or a piece with side cuts to give definition to your waist.

Inverted Triangle

An inverted triangle body shape is defined as having broader shoulders and narrow hips (lucky you, you have the body type of Angelina Jolie!). The swimsuit that will suit you best will make your figure look more curvaceous.

Styles for Inverted Triangle

For bikini tops, you can wear anything that emphasizes your neckline! A triangle top is the most simple go-to, but don't be afraid to try tops that have underwire or padding.

For bikini bottoms, any type of swim bottom that adds volume and draws attention to your lower body is ideal! Shorts or bottoms that are thicker on the sides will help you to achieve a full-bodied look!

If you're looking for a one piece swimsuit that complements your shape, choose an asymmetric design, such as a one-shoulder swimsuit, or a swimsuit with a plunging neckline that ties at the neck. 

Hourglass

You have an hourglass body shape if your shoulders and hips are aligned, with a a well-defined waistline.

Styles for Hourglass

For swim tops, you can get away with any style that you choose! Dare to adventure new trends, textures and styles!

For swim bottoms, any high cut, or Brazilian style bikini bottoms will help to accentuate your figure. 

Go ultra sexy in monokinis and one-piece swimsuits that play with sheer and textured fabrics, or cut outs that further emphasize your curves. You can wear anything you want! 

These are just a few body types out there, but there are tons! Play around with creating your own unique style. Feel free to stop by the shop to try on a variety of swimwear we carry, or even send us an email for a personalized styling session.

Until next time #bowbabes xoxo