Finding the perfect swimwear isn't about hiding your body—it's about celebrating it. Whether you're shopping for bikinis, one-pieces, or swim skirts, understanding which styles complement your unique shape will help you feel confident and beautiful at the beach or pool.
Understanding Your Body Shape
Before diving into specific swimwear styles, it's helpful to identify your body shape. Most bodies fall into one of these categories: pear, apple, hourglass, athletic, or petite. Remember, these are simply guides to help you find styles that make you feel amazing—there's no "right" or "wrong" body type.
Best Swimwear for Pear-Shaped Bodies
If you carry more weight in your hips and thighs with a smaller bust, you have a pear-shaped body. The goal is to balance your proportions by drawing attention upward.
Top recommendations:
- Bikini tops with embellishments, ruffles, or bold patterns to add volume to your upper body
- Halter neck or bandeau styles that broaden the shoulder line
- High-waisted bikini bottoms or swim skirts that provide coverage while elongating your legs
- One-pieces with detailed necklines and simpler bottoms
Avoid bottoms with excessive detailing or horizontal stripes, which can add visual width to your lower half.
Best Swimwear for Apple-Shaped Bodies
Apple shapes typically have a fuller midsection with slimmer legs and arms. Look for styles that create definition at the waist and highlight your best features.
Top recommendations:
- Wrap-style one-pieces that create a cinched waist effect
- Tankinis with ruching or draping across the stomach area
- V-neck or plunging necklines that elongate your torso
- Colour-blocked designs with darker panels through the middle
- Supportive underwire bikini tops paired with mid-rise bottoms
Steer clear of bandeau styles without support or very high-cut leg openings that can shorten your torso.
Best Swimwear for Hourglass Figures
With balanced bust and hips and a defined waist, hourglass figures can wear almost any style. The key is choosing swimwear that provides adequate support while showcasing your curves.
Top recommendations:
- Underwire bikini tops or supportive one-pieces to lift and support your bust
- High-waisted bikini bottoms that accentuate your waist
- Belted one-pieces that highlight your natural waistline
- Retro-inspired styles like vintage-cut bikinis or pin-up one-pieces
Avoid overly loose or shapeless styles that hide your natural proportions.
Best Swimwear for Athletic or Rectangular Bodies
If your shoulders, waist, and hips are roughly the same width, you have an athletic build. Your goal is to create the illusion of curves and add dimension.
Top recommendations:
- Ruffled or frilled bikini tops and bottoms to add volume
- Cut-out one-pieces that create the appearance of curves
- Side-tie bikini bottoms that add width to your hips
- Bandeau tops with embellishments to add shape to your bust
- Colour-blocking and pattern mixing to create visual interest
Avoid very minimal or sporty styles that emphasize straight lines.
Best Swimwear for Petite Frames
If you're under 160cm tall, proportion is everything. The right swimwear can elongate your frame and create the illusion of height.
Top recommendations:
- High-cut leg openings that make your legs appear longer
- Vertical stripes or patterns that draw the eye up and down
- Smaller prints and details that suit your frame
- Bikinis over one-pieces to avoid overwhelming your petite build
- Monochromatic colours that create an unbroken line
Avoid large, busy prints or very low-cut legs that can make you appear shorter.
Universal Tips for All Body Types
Regardless of your shape, these tips will help you find flattering swimwear:
1. Prioritise fit and support
Proper support is essential, especially for larger busts. Look for adjustable straps, underwire, and quality construction.
2. Choose quality fabrics
Premium Australian-made swimwear uses fabrics that hold their shape, provide compression where needed, and last season after season.
3. Consider your lifestyle
Are you swimming laps, surfing, or lounging poolside? Your activity level should influence your style choice.
4. Don't be afraid of colour
While black is slimming, don't shy away from colours and prints that make you happy. Confidence is the most flattering accessory.
5. Try before you buy
Swimwear should fit snugly when dry—it will loosen slightly when wet. Take time to move around and ensure you feel secure.
Finding Your Perfect Swimwear Match
At Star Mother Swimwear, we believe every body deserves beautiful, well-made swimwear. Our Australian-designed collection features styles for every shape, from supportive bikini tops to elegant one-pieces and versatile swim skirts.
Ready to find your perfect match? Browse our latest collection and discover swimwear that celebrates your unique beauty.