Suiting Yourself for Swimming
When it comes to online swimwear shopping, it can be nothing short of a nightmare. There will be a dozen of the same swim bottom with a slightly different cut. Who’s to know who that swimsuit was intended for? Fuller figures? Slimmer figures? Long legs? Short legs? You have to also consider cut, coverage, and support. It can all be too overwhelming to think through, especially when shopping is supposed to be ~relaxing~ above all else.
BOTTOMS
High-Rise
(What to Consider: CUT)
High-rise bottoms are perfect if you want to accentuate your waist more than any other part of the body.
Aerie Ribbed Crossover High-Cut for $35
Low-Rise
(What to Consider: CUT)
Though high-rise has been hailed as the universally flattering swim bottom cut, this is not always the case. Low-rise bottoms give the illusion of an hourglass figure on flatter figures. This is because it adds more emphasis to the hip bones, which puts more visual weight on the bottom half of the body.
Abercrombie High-Leg Cheeky Bottoms for $29
Cheeky
(What to Consider: COVERAGE)
Swim bottom coverage is all about preference, so no matter your body type, you’ll rock it. Cheeky bottoms are generally the most full coverage you are going to find.
Aerie Waffle Cheeky Bottom for $25
Bikini
(What to Consider: COVERAGE)
Bikini bottoms are the happy middle ground. This is for when you want to show a tad more skin, but still stay a little more PG.
Pacsun Roxy Reversible Sea Waves Bottom for $40
Thong
(What to Consider: COVERAGE)
Thongs are fun and are excellent at avoiding tan lines. Is the bottom you want to wear at your grandparents’ pool? Maybe, maybe not. Think about where you’ll be sporting this suit before investing.
Pacsun Kendall & Kylie Blue Giselle Band Bottom for $25
TOPS
Triangle
(What to Consider: SUPPORT)
The triangle bikini is a classic style, but it is inadvisable for those more well-endowed in the breast region, due to slippage. If you are worried about things staying right where you want them to, triangle bikini tops probably won’t be your go-to. That said, triangle tops are lightweight and available almost anywhere.
Abercrombie Shoulder-Tie Triangle for $35
Bandeau
(What to Consider: SUPPORT)
Bandeaus give more support and coverage for medium to large chests. If you have a smaller chest, be sure to try on before swiping.
Aerie Printed Ruffle Bikini for $40
Underwire
(What to Consider: SUPPORT)
To add some oomph to your chest area, go for underwire. Underwire is now acceptable for more than just push up bras! This top is great for anyone who wants some more lift.
Abercrombie Ruffle Strap Underwire for $45
Halter
What to Consider: SUPPORT)
Halter tops have that nice little bit of vintage to them. This top is ideal for those who want more coverage for their chests and make a statement with something different.
Venus Wireless Marilyn for $44
Written by Katie Collins and Adena Hoxha, Photography by Savannah Patterson, Design by Dana Dang, Media by Taylor Lammi