Swimwear is notoriously challenging to shop for. Let’s break down what to look for to make swimsuit shopping a little easier this year.

With warm weather approaching, you might have started your annual search for the perfect swimsuit. It’s hard to know where to get started. Shopping at a store in person isn’t always the most practical choice. The selection in stores is often limited in style, size, or price point. Plus, trying on swimwear in a store’s fluorescently lit dressing room is typically not the most comfortable experience.

So how do you shop online? Trendy cuts that may or may not work well in real life, concerns about tan lines, and inconsistent sizing between brands…these factors, along with the headache of online shopping and returns, can truly make this endeavor a nightmare. Let’s discuss what to look for in swimwear to maximize your chances of success.

See What Has Worked for You in the Past

The first step to determining the right swimsuit for you is, of course, to do some research. Peek through your closet to investigate what has worked well for you in the past.

Size and Fit

First up is to take your measurements! Measure around the fullest part of your bust, under your bust where a bra band would lay, at your natural waist, and around the fullest part of your hips. Write these down to reference later as you begin shopping.

Silhouette is equally important to get the fit right. The right shape, strap placement, and adjustable features will help ensure the best fit for your unique body. Not sure about the right shape for you? Try on any swimwear that is currently in your wardrobe. How does a triangle bikini feel? A bandeau?

Consider your best-fitting bras, too. Do you typically prefer demi bras with a more sculpted shape, or is a sports bra your go-to? Let this guide your swimsuit top shopping, as the pros and cons of these shapes will translate into swimwear. For example, if plunge silhouettes cause gapping for you in bras, they will likely do the same in swimwear. If you have a large chest, you’ll probably want to look for more supportive shapes with wide shoulder and back straps just like you would for a bra.

Flattering Cuts and Colors

The cut of a swimsuit is not just important for fit – it’s important to find a swimsuit that best complements your body type, too! Look for design elements that play up your best assets and flatter those you are less confident in. High waist bikini bottoms offer a little more coverage in the midsection and draw the eye to the narrowest part of your body. Other tricks for flattering a midsection are designs with a belt at the waist, ruching through the midsection for a forgiving fit, or tankini tops that float away from the area. Bottoms that are cut higher on the hip will elongate your legs, which can be great for petites. For those looking to create curves, try separates with ruffles or gathered details around the bust and hips to create volume.

Even if you’re not a huge fan of color in your day-to-day attire, swimwear can be a fun place to play with bold colors. Consider the colors you look best in. This will depend on factors like whether you have warm or cool undertones and your hair and eye colors. Not sure? Look at photos of yourself wearing different colors to see what compliments you best to aid in your swimsuit shopping journey.

Purchase Tops and Bottoms Separately Based on Measurements

Now that you’ve done your homework on swimsuit size, fit, style, and color, it’s time to get into the shopping itself. It’s crucial to have your measurements on hand because brands differ so significantly in fit. You may be a small in shirts, but a medium or large in swimwear tops. It’s arguably even less consistent than jeans sizing. Take the guesswork out of it and compare your measurements against the brand’s size chart.

If you’re between sizes, many swimwear sites will have a live chat option to get extra guidance. Keep in mind that measurements don’t always tell the full story about your unique body shape, so it may be beneficial to buy two sizes to compare at home. It’s more convenient to return the size that didn’t work than to go through the buying and returning process multiple times.

The best part about buying swimwear separates is that you can purchase the top and bottom in different sizes. Whether due to bone structure or simply the way weight is distributed, many of us are not the same size on top and bottom. For those with more significant differences in top and bottom sizes, separates will probably be a much better option than one-pieces. Choose the sizes that align best with your measurements, and don’t be afraid if the top and bottoms you order are vastly different.

Have a Suit for Any Occasion

Swimsuit shopping gets easier as you go. Once you find a fit that works for you in a favorite brand, build up your swimwear wardrobe! Always keep in mind what has worked for you in the past in terms of shape, design details, fabric content, and color. That’s not to say you have to keep re-buying the same type of swimsuit over and over! Try something a little different each time you buy.

It’s a good idea to have a few options in your swim wardrobe so you have something to wear for any occasion. Start with these pieces for a well-rounded selection:

1. The tried and true basic: One with a simple cut that fits well, is high quality, and you plan to have for years. The clean lines make this a timeless option you’ll reach for over and over, and it’ll be great for tanning.
2. The trendy vacation-ready suit: This one can be a little bolder in color and pattern. This option may not be in your wardrobe for as many years, so plan to invest less in this set. Have fun experimenting with different designs here!
3. The sporty swimsuit: Ensure that this suit doesn’t slip with movement and is designed for activities. Bonus for swimsuits with UPF sun protection! The ideal cut may be a little more conservative and compressive. It may also have fewer ties and decorations to get in your way. Buy from brands known for their activewear if you plan to use them for more intense activities like beach volleyball. Just because it’s functional doesn’t mean it has to be boring! Look for bold colors to make a statement.

Additionally, we advise that you have at least one one-piece and one two-piece swimsuit. This may or may not always be possible based on your needs, but it’s a good idea for a well-rounded swim wardrobe.

Wrap Up

With many of our 2020 summer vacation plans postponed to this year, now is the perfect time to refresh your swimwear wardrobe. Approach it strategically to find the pieces that fit beautifully, flatter your figure, and will get the most use. Follow these tips as you begin the swimsuit shopping process to maximize your success! It may still take a bit of trial and error as you learn about the best cuts for you. Doing some research upfront will save you tons of time and money.

Looking to discover new swimwear brands or get advice on what would work best for you? We would love to help. Reach out to us to get started! We offer fully virtual services from shopping to styling to make the process a breeze. For those who are new here, check out our full 3-step process to set you and your closet up for success. This is great for those looking for a spring/summer closet overhaul!

Don’t forget to check back weekly for blog posts on personal style, shopping tips, and other insights on your summer wardrobe!