The most flattering swimsuits for full busts, wide hips and more, according to a pro
If a flattering swimsuit is the only thing holding you back from enjoying a pool party with your friends or a beach day with the fam, it's time to tackle that. After all, nothing is more refreshing on a hot summer day than a dip in cool water. To help you on your hunt for a bathing suit you look and feel good in, I spoke with Dani Read, head of design for the Italian lingerie and swimwear brand Cosabella. She spends most of her days thinking about how to accentuate a woman's best assets in barely-there fashion, so who better to ask for swimsuit shopping advice?
Read's first tip? Before you add a single bathing suit to your shopping cart, take a look at the label. "Sun, salt and chlorine are very hard on materials, so I always choose fabrics with durability in mind," Read explains. Her recommendation? Look for swimsuits that "provide shaping compression, offer 50+ UPF sun protection, have vibrant fade-resistant color and quick-dry features, and are designed to be anti-pilling."
Next comes choosing the right silhouette. "Prioritize fit and comfort over trends," Read says. "Everybody is unique, and finding a swimsuit that fits well and makes you feel confident and comfortable is key. Having a few great-fitting styles can be far better than having tons of ill-fitting trendy swimsuits or bikinis. By experimenting with different options, you can find the perfect style that works for your body shape and personal preferences."
Not sure where to start? Check out Read's top fit tips for women with different body types below.
Try a swimsuit with wider shoulder straps. "Look for swimsuits with special features that will enhance, support and lift your bust," Read explains. "Adjustable straps will allow you to customize the fit, and wide straps will help distribute the weight more evenly for ultimate comfort."
"Look for swimsuits with built-in tummy-control features that will help streamline the tummy area," Read says. High-waisted bikini bottoms are another option that can be super flattering for the waistline, she adds.
Resist the urge to cover them up in a swim dress (though we've got some cute options there too). It may seem counterintuitive, but bathing suits that show a little more can actually be more flattering. "Swimsuits with high-cut legs can visually elongate the legs and complement a curvy figure," Read explains.
Don't limit yourself to solid-color swimsuits. "Playing with bold prints and patterns can draw attention away from certain areas and create a more balanced look," Read says.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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