If you’re plus-sized and want to enjoy lounging at the pool or swimming at the beach as the weather warms up, use the following advice to find your perfect swimwear!
1. Think Beyond the Traditional One Piece
While plus-sized shoppers were traditionally advised to stick to one-piece suits, there’s nothing long with a one-piece suit if that’s what you like. You don’t have to hide your body to please others, and there’s no reason why you can’t have options!
If you purchase your top and bottom separately, you get the best possible fit for your body, especially if your top and bottom are different sizes, and can mix and match styles, too! Companies often sell the pieces separately, but don’t be afraid to purchase two sets if you have to.
Consider longer tops known as tankinis that smooth your tummy and show less skin. If you want the best of both worlds, a monokini can give the appearance of an elongated upper body. Mesh and crochet details can give the impression of a suit that’s closer to a two-piece with the comfort and security of a one-piece swimsuit.
Finally, swim skirts offer more modesty than bottoms, but you might find modern swim dresses more stylish.
2. Go High Waisted
High-waisted bikinis have become all the rage in plus size swimwear. Why? When the higher waist breaks at the slimmest part of your waist, it creates more of an hourglass figure than a lower cut bottom. On that note, experts at The Better Fit recommend choosing high waisted bikinis in black or dark colors to make you look even slimmer.
Furthermore, a higher swim bottom can control and tuck your waist for a smoother and slimmer appearance. Finally, that higher waist typically means more material than a bikini or even a thong, which can cut into your flesh and make you look even larger.
3. Try A Halter Top
A halter top that connects or ties around the neck can square off the shoulders, creating the appearance of smaller upper arms. It’s also perfect for achieving that vintage-inspired look that’s all the rage these days. Just make sure that the strap is supportive and comfortable enough for your bust.
4. Don’t Forget Support
When it comes to choosing swimwear, especially a two-piece, don’t choose form over function. A top with thick, supportive straps is a must to remain comfortable and avoid the possibility of broken straps or slippage, and underwire can help, too. Fortunately, most makers of plus-sized swimwear have gotten the message and sell supportive pieces.
5. Wear Ruffles or Fringe
While traditional plus-sized swimwear only used ruffles for the bottoms, ruffles have more recently been incorporated into swim tops as well. An angled ruffle draws the eye away from the stomach, and toward the shoulders and arms. Ruffles also add volume, which can help balance your body.
Try ruching to guide the eye to your favorite features without adding as much bulk as ruffles. Because fringe falls away from the body, similar to ruffles, it doesn’t highlight your trouble areas. Bonus: fringe swimwear can be worn like bodysuits under shorts or pants.
6. Use Prints Wisely
A bold print on top is great for drawing the gaze upward. Chevrons are a great example of a pattern that naturally suggests movement. Choose swimwear with a print that’s vertically asymmetrical to guide the eye upward. Similarly, a two-piece with print on top paired with solid-colored bottoms can achieve a similar goal.
Experiment with solid colors near the midsection but trim, straps, or bottoms that are bright and bold for a pop of color and style while remaining slimming overall.
7. Enhance your Bust
A lined swim top or one with underwire emphasizes one of your best features, your bust! Consider a cutout or plunge style if you want to draw attention to your cleavage and away from other areas.
8. Add Accessories
Cover Ups come in kimono and dress styles, offering comfort and protection from the sun while emphasizing your arms and stomach. Sarongs and wraps are a great choice to take attention away from your butt and thighs while allowing your bust to remain visible.
Feel free to think beyond your body, too! A fun piece of jewelry, sunhat, or sandals can show off your sense of style and ability to put together an outfit.
About the Guest Author
Lisa Eclesworth is a notable and influential lifestyle writer. She is a mom of two and a successful homemaker. She loves to cook and create beautiful projects with her family. She writes informative and fun articles that her readers love and enjoy. You can directly connect with her on email – [email protected] or visit her website www.lisaeclesworth.com
