Any expert will tell you that buying a swimsuit is all about knowing your body type. Read on for our favorite finds for every type — from pear to apple, shy to bold!
Pear
As a pear, you are fuller on the bottom than on the top — try styles that are two-tone, dark on the bottom to minimize attention to that area and light colors on top.
Pictured: Camilla & Marc Ipanema Triangle Bikini, $209 at Asos.com
Apple
Those of us who have a larger bust, broader shoulders and a narrow waist are known as apple shapes, and should stick to styles that slim the waist and draw attention upward toward the face, such as styles with ruffles or a halter neck.
Pictured: Aerin Rose Watermelon Tri Halter Bikini ($78) and matching shirred skirted bottom ($88)
Full-busted
For the busty ladies, you know support is most important. Also, two-tone bathing suits will work here in the opposite way they do for pear girls, refocusing the gaze toward the bottom with light colors there. This Roberto Cavalli reversible bikini works perfectly in both respects. Plus, when you want to showcase your daring demeanor, wear the leopard print; when it’s time for a more low-key approach, switch to the black side. The high-waist bottom also has a fab retro appeal!
Pictured: Roberto Cavalli Reversible High-Waist-Bottom Two-Piece — $440 at Neiman Marcus
Small-busted
Small busted girls can have a lot of fun on the beach — go bold with fun prints, bold colors and ruffles to give your bust a boost. My motto? Flaunt what you have, but don’t be afraid to fake what you don’t!
Pictured: La Perla Studio Swimwear Malibu Molded Push-Up Bikini, $177 at NancyMeyer.com
Ruler
When your measurements in your hips, waist and chest are pretty much the same, this is known as the ruler shape — monokini or one-pieces that will give the illusion of a waist will work great on you, as will prints.
Pictured: Kenneth Cole Reaction Swimsuit, Bandeau Ruffle Tummy Control Swim dress in Pinkberry, $75 at Macy’s
Hourglass
You lucky hourglass, you: Your waist is narrow and tends to stay slim, even if you gain weight. Dress by placing an accent on top and bottom. You have the most options! Look for single-color tops and bottoms, and try to avoid square necks and tankini tops.
Pictured: Zimmermann Noir Printed Lace Bikini, $250 at Bloomingdale’s
Covering up the gals
A bikini wearer MUST have a cover-up within arm’s reach: Even women with the fittest bodies still want to be covered sometimes to feel confident and free to enjoy themselves. This swim shell is great because it doubles as a lunch-break appropriate casual beach dress with an empire waistband to embrace your curves.
Pictured: Beach freedom v-neck swim shell in turquoise ($62)
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