How to Choose the Right Swimsuit for Your Body Shape

Quick Answer

To choose the right swimsuit for your body shape, start by identifying your silhouette—pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle, or inverted triangle—then select styles that highlight your favorite features and provide the support you need. For example, pear shapes often shine in bandeau or halter tops with high-cut bottoms, while apple shapes may prefer ruched one-pieces or supportive underwire tops.

Finding a swimsuit that makes you feel confident and comfortable doesn't have to be a chore. The key is understanding your body shape and knowing which styles complement it. Whether you're shopping for a beach vacation or poolside lounging, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

We'll cover how to assess your shape, what features to look for, and how to try on suits to ensure the perfect fit. Plus, we'll highlight some of our favorite styles from Aubade Paris that cater to different body types.

Identify Your Body Shape

Before you start browsing, take a moment to analyze your proportions. Stand in front of a mirror and look at your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips. Generally, body shapes fall into five categories: pear (hips wider than bust), apple (waist fuller than bust and hips), hourglass (bust and hips balanced with a defined waist), rectangle (bust, waist, and hips similar), and inverted triangle (shoulders/bust wider than hips).

Knowing your shape helps narrow down swimsuit styles that will flatter your figure. For instance, if you have a pear shape, you might want to draw attention upward with embellished or patterned tops. If you're apple-shaped, look for suits with tummy control or ruching. Remember, these are guidelines, not rules—your personal comfort and style always come first.

• Use a soft measuring tape to get accurate bust, waist, and hip measurements.
• Consider your bust size as well; larger busts may need more support.

Determine Your Priorities: Support, Coverage, or Style

Once you know your shape, think about what matters most to you in a swimsuit. Do you need extra support for larger busts? Are you looking for more coverage on the bottom? Or do you want to make a fashion statement? Your priorities will guide your choices.

For example, if support is key, look for underwired tops or halter necks. If you prefer minimal tan lines, a bandeau or triangle top might be ideal. And if you want to highlight your curves, consider high-cut legs or cut-outs. Make a list of your top three priorities to keep in mind while shopping.

• Support: underwire, molded cups, wide straps
• Coverage: high-waisted bottoms, full-coverage tops
• Style: prints, embellishments, unique cuts

Choose Styles That Flatter Your Shape

Now that you have a clear picture of your body and priorities, it's time to explore specific styles. For pear shapes, bandeau tops and halter necks balance wider hips, while high-cut or Brazilian bottoms elongate legs. Apple shapes often look great in ruched one-pieces or tankinis that provide tummy control, and underwired tops offer support.

Hourglass figures can pull off almost any style, but wrap tops and high-waisted bottoms accentuate the waist. Rectangle shapes may want to create curves with ruffled or padded tops and side-tie bottoms. Inverted triangles can balance broad shoulders with detailed bottoms and simple tops.

• Pear: Aurora Sands Bandeau bikini top - draws attention to shoulders
• Apple: Secret Laguna One-piece swimsuit - asymmetric cut creates a slimming effect



• Hourglass: Beach Escape Underwired triangle bra - enhances cleavage

Try On and Assess the Fit

When you try on swimsuits, move around—bend, stretch, and sit. The suit should stay in place without digging into your skin. Check that the straps don't slip and that the leg openings don't gap. If you're between sizes, size up for comfort, as swimwear often runs small.

Also, consider the fabric. Recycled materials, like those used in many Aubade suits, are not only eco-friendly but also durable and comfortable. Look for suits that offer a good stretch and retain their shape after swimming.

• Check for any pinching or redness after wearing for a few minutes.
• Make sure the suit provides adequate coverage when you move.

Step-by-Step Swimsuit Selection

1. Step 1: Assess your body shape: Measure your bust, waist, and hips to determine your silhouette. Use this as a starting point but don't let it limit you. Common mistake: ignoring your measurements and buying based on size alone.
2. Step 2: Define your priorities: Decide whether support, coverage, or style matters most. This will help you filter options quickly. Checkpoint: If you have a larger bust, prioritize underwire or molded cups.
3. Step 3: Select flattering styles: Choose styles that highlight your favorite features. For example, pear shapes can opt for embellished tops, while apple shapes may prefer one-pieces with ruching. Common mistake: choosing a style that hides your assets instead of showing them off.
4. Step 4: Try on and move: When trying on, mimic swimming movements to ensure the suit stays in place and feels comfortable. Checkpoint: If the suit leaves marks or slips, try a different size or style.
5. Step 5: Check fabric and construction: Look for quality materials like recycled fabrics that offer durability and comfort. Check stitching and hardware. Common mistake: overlooking fabric quality, which can lead to sagging or irritation.

Aubade Swimwear Picks for Every Shape

• Secret Laguna One-piece swimsuit: In a comfortable, modern trikini shape, the Secret Laguna asymmetric one-piece swimsuit streamlines the figure and showcases feminine curves by creating areas of bare skin in certain places. Its sexy single strap comprises fabric ties trimmed with gold-coloured beads. Ideal for apple shapes or those wanting tummy control, the asymmetric cut and strategic cut-outs create a slimming, elongating effect.
• Beach Escape Underwired triangle bra Hibiscus: Creating a deep, sexy and fabulously shaped cleavage, the Beach Escape Plunging Triangle Bikini Top is underwired and available up to cup size E. Its soft and comfortable recycled fabric extends almost up to the shoulders. Perfect for hourglass figures or larger busts needing support, this top enhances your natural shape while providing comfort.
• Aurora Sands Bandeau bikini top Boho: The Aurora Sands underwired bandeau bikini top in Boho seduces with a clean, contemporary line. Its luminous print elegantly highlights the shoulders. A new soft-underwired construction provides natural, reassuring support with comfortable wear. Ideal for small to medium busts seeking an open, balanced neckline. Great for pear shapes, this bandeau draws attention to the shoulders and balances wider hips, while offering gentle support for smaller busts.

Choosing the right swimsuit for your body shape is about understanding your proportions and what makes you feel great. Use these steps to guide your next purchase, and don't be afraid to try something new. With the right fit and style, you'll be ready to hit the beach with confidence.