Togs to suit every size and shape
It doesn’t matter how much time I have to prepare, I swear I will never be ready for swimsuit shopping, says Jasmine Riley.
Navigating the world of swimwear can be a daunting experience. It doesn’t matter how much time we have to prepare, I swear my body will never be ready. Not to mention every time you try on swimwear it’s always under unforgiving fluorescent lights.
To help make this task as painless as possible, we’ve pulled together a few tips for swimsuit shopping, according to fit and flattery.
Best for curves: the high rise
If you want to cover your belly, you can’t look past high-rise pants. This shape is designed to draw you in at the waist and give a more defined shape, which in turn accentuates your curves.
The beauty of the high rise is pretty much any swim top design will match.
Best for big boobs: the padded triangle
For a long time, the market has lumped together all women who are bigger than a D-cup.
But Australian label The Fold’s styles are made from recycled Italian fabric that won’t lose shape, and the adjustable back straps mean women with smaller backs are supported, too.
The designers say the biggest mistakes women make when buying swimwear is not knowing the shape of their breasts, buying swimwear that’s three sizes too small ‘‘because it’ll stretch’’, and buying unflattering shapes that give a ‘‘uni-boob’’ effect.
Best for small boobs: the sports crop
Smaller-chested women have two options: You can embrace your smaller breasts or go for a padded style to give the illusion of fullness. The sports crop bikini can double as a bra, and it really fits the minimalist trend. This style is meant to be a snug fit, which is great because that usually creates cleavage. It’s also incredibly comfortable.
The one piece is god’s gift to women. It’s comfortable, flattering, low maintenance and sophisticated. Plus, it can double as a top if you want to do the ‘‘beach to bar’’ thing. Modern onepieces have built-in padding for extra support, high leg cuts that give you that Baywatch look, and backless ones to show off your body, without being too over the top.
Best for bums: the cheeky or thigh brow cut
This season we’ve seen the return of the 1980s thigh brow look, that sits above the hip bones and dips in the middle, making a V shape. This style is a nice middle ground if the high rise is too much for you, as it still shows skin, draws in the waist line, and makes your legs look longer.
Best for sun protection: the long sleeve
We’ve come a long way from poorly designed rashies to fashionable long-sleeve options.
Long sleeves are also perfect for swimming and offer surfers an alternative to wet suits. And if you have fair skin, this style is perfect.
Best for bumps: the two-piece
For pregnant women, instead of buying a one-piece or tankini that resembles a parachute by the end of summer, why not embrace your bump and show it off in a two piece?
Bottoms with a regular or V-shaped rise are perfect because they sit under your bump and won’t add pressure. Match the bottoms with a top that has padding or adjustable cross back style straps.
Best for sustainability: Kowtow
New Zealand brand Kowtow is one of a growing number of sustainable labels creating swimwear from regenerated nylon waste material, including fishing nets, discarded carpets, plastic components and fabric scraps.
Kowtow’s creative director, Gosia Piatek, is passionate about creating pieces for a variety of body shapes and sizes. – Sydney Morning Herald