Have questions about swimsuit shopping? We crowd sourced our creative team for their most puzzling pool-wear quandaries. Check out the resulting swimsuit FAQ for expert tips on fit and styling.
Q: Can I add volume to my chest without resorting to push-up cups?
A: Don’t be so quick to dismiss push-up styles. Modern push-up cups are soft and subtle for a natural appearance. Plus, many styles are offset with feminine accents, so you can rest assured you won’t look like you’re swimming in your bra.
But if you’re still not sold, try two of our favorite new trends: handkerchief and fringe bikini tops. Both styles are flattering and free-spirited, creating the illusion of a larger chest while balancing the overall shape of your figure.
Shop the Suits: Coco Rave Practical Magic Underwire Top, Gianni Bini Butterfly-Print Flutter Top, Roxy Surf Essentials Fringe Bandeau Top
Q: Do I have to stick with solids to look my slimmest?
A: Of course not! Just remember, small-scale prints minimize while large-scale prints emphasize. Mixing and matching different patterns and solids lets you spotlight your best assets. For example, pairing a boldy printed bikini or tankini top with a solid bottom is a simple, chic way to keep the focus on your upper body.
Shop the Suits: GB Bird-Print Halter Top & Stripe Hipster Bottom, Christina Swimwear Woman Floral-Print Tankini Top, Coco Rave So Social Bandeau Top & Solid Bottom
Q: Any tips for finding tummy-taming suits that aren’t constricting?
A: We’re loving this season’s peasant-inspired tankini tops. They’re fitted through the bust but softly skim your midsection for a slimming illusion. Blouson tops – which feature loose bodies with banded hems – keep you covered and feeling confident even when you’re in the water.
Spanx and Magicsuit swimsuits are also great options. Both lines offer comfortable control designs that couple light compression with flattering accents (like draping, shirring and tiers) for a slimmed-down look in seconds.
Shop the Suits: Athena Pick Your Fit Mandalay Bandini Top, Kenneth Cole Reaction True Love Tankini Top, Spanx Riveting Ruching One-Piece Swimsuit
Q: I’m young but not confident about my rear and upper thighs. How do I hide my problem areas and still look my age?
A: Skirted bikini bottoms and swimdresses not only conceal your lower body, but also make a feminine statement. In fact, we find many skirted suits flirtier than traditional bikinis. Look for skirts with ruffled or pleated hems to achieve that coveted balance of coverage and youth.
Another way to minimize thighs and hips? Put the emphasis on your upper body. Think ruffled bandeau tops, shoulder-accentuating halter tops, or striped tops paired with solid bottoms. Basically, anything that draws the eye up.
Shop the Suits: Betsey Johnson Beauty Mark Floral-Print Swimdress, Kenneth Cole New York Haute Wave Bandeau Top & Skirted Bottom, Eco Swim Galaxy Ruffle Bandeau Top & Hipster Bottom
Q: How do I choose a suit that complements my skin tone?
A: Finding a swimsuit that complements your complexion is just like shopping for a dress or top. If you always feel good in purple, take some purple suits into the dressing room. And though black is a traditionally slimming choice, avoid it in favor of other dark shades (navy, plum, olive) if you typically look washed out in it.
To fake a tan, turn to warm shades such as coral, orange, red and neon. These hot hues not only bring a bronze glow to pale complexions, but also enhance darker skin tones.
Shop the Suits: Miraclesuit Up & Coming One-Piece Swimsuit, Gianni Bini Striped Ruffle Top & Bottom, GB Monokini One-Piece Swimsuit
Q: I want a coverup that provides coverage but is still sexy. Any suggestions?
A: Coverups are key to pulling together a glam pool or beach look. While caftans are a classic choice, we’re smitten with this season’s crochet styles. They provide crucial coverage but also reveal playful hints of skin – the best of both worlds.
If you’re trying to pack lightly for vacation, go with a maxi dress. The multitasking silhouette pairs with flip-flops for the beach and wedge sandals for dinner.
Shop the Suits: Gianni Bini Crochet Tank Coverup, Becca Colorized Romper Coverup, Trina Turk Tokyo Bay Maxi Dress Coverup
Click here to see our entire selection of women’s swimsuits.
Do you have fit or styling tips? Tell us in the comments!
