A perfectly fitted design for flattering swimsuits

You've probably already noticed: a well-cut swimsuit can transform your figure in seconds. Beyond aesthetics, it's the technical details – pattern making, material, finishes, and support – that truly make the difference. By choosing a cut adapted to your body type, you'll feel more comfortable, better supported, and much more confident on the beach.

The swimsuit market is dynamic: with 16.4 million pieces sold each year in France, many women are still looking for "the" right model, and body type advice is considered essential in stores. Thanks to quality technical materials and precise cut engineering, every woman can reveal her natural beauty, regardless of her size or figure.

Do you want to discover the flattering swimsuit silhouettes that truly enhance your figure, with concrete and easy-to-apply criteria? This expert guide will help you see clearly, step by step.

Key Points

• Choose a swimsuit based on your body type, but also on the level of support you need (low, medium, strong) and your intended use (relaxing swim, swimming, sports activities).

• Opt for technical materials (Polyamide + 18–25% elastane) and careful finishes for lasting comfort: flexible seams, comfortable lining, adjustable straps.

• Use colors and patterns according to a simple logic: dark shades slim, bright colors and prints draw attention to your assets, solids structure the silhouette.

• Harmonize the top and bottom of your swimsuit to create a balanced silhouette: play with volumes (ruffles, cutouts, high waist) to correct or accentuate proportions.

• Don't hesitate to try on several models, move around, sit down, and raise your arms in the fitting room: a good swimsuit should stay in place, provide support where needed, and allow you freedom of movement.

Principles of the Perfect Cut

Body Type and Cut

If you want to feel truly good in your swimsuit, start by analyzing your body type. Three measurements are enough: shoulder circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference. By comparing these values, you can determine if you are more of an A, V, X, H, or O shape, then choose the appropriate flattering swimsuit silhouettes.

For example, if you have a defined waist and shoulders aligned with your hips, wrap cuts, high-waisted styles, and fitted one-piece swimsuits will immediately enhance your figure. If, on the contrary, your shoulders are wide and your hips are narrower, more detailed bottoms and cutouts or ruffles at the hips will rebalance the overall look.

The secret is to use the cut to redistribute volumes: visually increasing where you want to draw the eye, and softening or slimming where you want more discretion. Flattering swimsuit silhouettes exist for every body, the main thing is to dare to try several shapes.

Tip: Stand in front of a full-length mirror, sideways and front-facing. Observe what you want to highlight (chest, waist, legs, back) and what you want to soften. Note it down, then choose your cut based on these priorities.

Materials and Finishes

The material of your swimsuit plays an essential role, both for comfort and durability. You want a fabric that hugs the body without compressing, doesn't whiten when stretched, and resists chlorine, salt, and UV rays. Good swimsuits often use a blend of polyamide and elastane with a weight between 170 and 220 g/m².

Finishes also make all the difference:

• flat or flexible zigzag seams to prevent irritation,

• soft and breathable lining that prevents transparency,

• adjustable straps, possibly multi-position, to adapt support,

• solid, water-resistant fasteners that don't deform over time.

You can check these elements by consulting the product sheet: some models are designed to enhance the silhouette while highlighting the quality of materials and finishes.

Preferably choose fabrics that dry quickly, retain their shape after several swims, and don't sag too much over time. Details like invisible seams, shaping linings, or reinforced fasteners make the swimsuit more comfortable to wear and more durable. The result: you feel both comfortable, supported, and confident at the beach and by the pool.

Flattering Swimsuit Silhouettes and Top Types

Triangle and Plunging Neckline

Do you want to enhance your chest with a natural effect? The triangle top and the plunging neckline are among the most popular flattering swimsuit silhouettes.

For smaller busts, a well-structured plunging neckline creates the illusion of more generous volume, especially if the cup is lightly padded or ruched. Ruffles, bows, and embellishments at the neckline add dimension and draw the eye. For generous busts, it's important to choose an encasing triangle top with lined cups, wider straps, and ideally, underwire or an underbust band for secure support.

Tip: Look at the width of the band and straps. The wider they are, the more evenly the weight of the bust is distributed, which improves long-term comfort.

Bandeau and Balconette

The bandeau is the ideal cut if you want to avoid strap marks and enjoy an even tan on your upper body. It is particularly suitable for small or firm busts, as it generally offers moderate support. Bandeaus with side boning, silicone strips, or removable straps improve stability. You can also wear it under a t-shirt or a low-cut dress for a smooth look.

The balconette, on the other hand, provides a beautiful shape and a push-up effect, perfect for less firm busts or when you want to structure the cleavage without necessarily pushing the bust upwards like a push-up. Thanks to its encasing cups and well-positioned straps, it is one of the most versatile flattering swimsuit silhouettes, suitable for cup sizes B to E and beyond, depending on the model.

Crop Top and Bralette

If you're active or sporty, the crop top and bralette are for you. They offer comfort, freedom of movement, and breathability, while ensuring a good level of support.

A well-designed swimsuit bralette limits bounce thanks to a combination of compression (the material wraps the chest) and encapsulation (each breast is held in its cup). This type of top is ideal for swimming, playing beach volleyball, surfing, or practicing any other beach sport, as it stays in place even when moving.

• Optimal comfort, no slipping straps

• Freedom of movement for arms and bust

• Support adapted to dynamic activities

Asymmetrical Tops

Do you want a touch of modernity and an immediate stylish effect? Asymmetrical tops draw the eye and create a flattering diagonal line on the bust. By exposing one shoulder and playing with draping, they help visually rebalance the shoulders.

This style is particularly suitable for V-shaped (wider shoulders) and A-shaped (more pronounced hips) body types because the oblique line breaks the rigidity of horizontal lines. Details like ruffles, geometric cutouts, or original fasteners add elegance and personality to your silhouette.

Don't hesitate to play with these different types of tops to personalize your look. Flattering swimsuit silhouettes come in all styles: minimalist, glamorous, sporty, retro... it's up to you to choose the ones that best reflect you.

Flattering Bottom Types

High Waist

Do you want to slim your waist and enhance your curves? The high-waisted bottom remains a must-have. It rises above or just below the navel depending on the model, creating a beautiful retro silhouette and emphasizing the waist.

For an A-shaped body type, this cut highlights the hips while smoothing the lower abdomen. For 8 or X-shaped silhouettes, it accentuates the natural curve between the waist and hips. It's also an excellent choice if you want to subtly conceal your tummy or feel more "held in."

Tip: A solid, dark-colored high-waisted bottom visually elongates the legs and structures the silhouette, especially if it's slightly high-cut on the sides.

High-Cut

Are you looking to lengthen your legs and energize your silhouette? The high-cut bottom is for you. Its cut reveals more of the thigh and creates an upward line, which gives the impression of longer, slimmer legs.

High-cut briefs suit almost all body types, but they are particularly flattering for women who want to visually slim their hips or rebalance a torso that is longer than their legs.

• Elongates the legs

• Slims the hip line

• Suitable for many figures, especially if the cut stays in place well

Shorty and Boxer

Are you looking for comfort, coverage, and reassuring support? The shorty and boxer are perfect for you. Their enveloping cut ensures optimal support, thanks in particular to the elasticated waistband and greater side height.

The shorty adds a touch of sensuality by hugging the curves of the buttocks, while the boxer offers an even more covering and relaxed style. If you have a curvier figure, want more discretion, or engage in beach sports activities, these models are particularly suitable.

Note: Check that the waistband doesn't compress and that the thighs aren't “cut” by the seam. A good shorty should stay in place without excessive marking.

Thong and Tanga

Do you want a sexy and confident silhouette? The thong largely reveals the buttocks and highlights curves, especially if you have slim hips or like very high-cut styles.

The tanga, on the other hand, offers a compromise between coverage and sensuality: it hugs the curve of the buttocks while being a little more present than a thong. Both cuts are ideal if you want to minimize tan lines or if you appreciate very streamlined silhouettes.

• Thong: ideal for slim hips and figures that prefer minimal cuts

• Tanga: perfect for shaping generous hips while remaining elegant

The main thing is to feel comfortable with the chosen degree of coverage. Don't hesitate to try several styles to find the one that best suits your comfort and your desire to embrace your curves.

Cuts and Body Types

Finding the perfect swimsuit truly depends on your body type, but also on your priorities (support, coverage, style, sport, tanning...). You can play with cuts, materials, colors, and details to highlight your natural assets and soften what you like less. Discover how each silhouette can benefit from flattering swimsuit silhouettes and associated style tips.

A-Shaped Silhouette

Do you have hips wider than your shoulders? You have an A-shaped silhouette. The goal is to rebalance the figure by drawing attention to the upper body.

To do this, choose tops that add visual volume: light colors, visible prints, thick textures, ruffles, pleats, gathers, bows... Boat neck, square, or Bardot necklines are particularly flattering as they widen the shoulder line.

For bottoms, opt for matte materials, darker colors, and rather simple cuts for discretion. A high-waisted bikini or a one-piece swimsuit with waist cutouts helps to slim and structure the silhouette.

Tip: Statement jewelry, a hat, or graphic sunglasses enhance the focusing effect on the upper body and complement the body type strategy.

V-Shaped Silhouette

Are your shoulders wider than your hips and your build pronounced? You have a V-shaped silhouette. The idea is to soften the upper body and give more visual presence to the hips.

You can choose bralettes, asymmetrical bikinis, or triangle tops to break up the width of the shoulders. For bottoms, opt for low-waisted shorties, ruffled briefs, printed bottoms, or those with details on the hips to create visual volume.

Belted one-piece swimsuits, with deep back necklines or strategic cutouts, are also very flattering. By playing with contrasts (a rather understated top and a more elaborate bottom), you effectively rebalance the silhouette.

• Asymmetrical tops or triangles to soften shoulder width

• Ruffled, knotted, or patterned bottoms to enhance the hips

• Belted one-piece swimsuits to define the waist

X-Shaped Silhouette

Do you have a defined waist and shoulders aligned with your hips? You have an X-shaped silhouette, often considered very balanced. The goal is to highlight this natural harmony without concealing it.

Fitted swimsuits, high-waisted bikinis, V-neck tops, and wrap styles suit you particularly well. You can also choose one-piece swimsuits with waist cutouts, draping, or belts to enhance the hourglass effect.

Tip: Discreet patterns and solid colors are perfect for highlighting your silhouette without overwhelming it. You can add a strong detail to a single area (neckline, back, hip) to maintain a harmonious overall look.

H-Shaped Silhouette

Is your waist not very defined and your shoulders aligned with your hips? You have an H-shaped silhouette. The goal is to create curves and give the illusion of a slimmer waist.

Choose ruffled tops, V or U-necklines, and styles with overlays or details at the bust and shoulders. Light jackets, textured fabrics, and horizontal/vertical stripe play can also visually sculpt volumes.

Swimsuits with waist cutouts, belted high-waisted styles, or knotted effects at the stomach are very effective in creating the impression of a “defined waist.”

• Ruffled, layered, or wrap tops

• Round, V-neck, or boat necklines to structure the bust

• Shoulder details and puff sleeves on beachwear

O-Shaped Silhouette

Do you have generous curves, a less defined waist, and often a prominent bust? You have an O-shaped silhouette. The goal is to smooth the central line, offer good support, and highlight the areas you like.

One-piece swimsuits with vertical cutouts, gathers, or drapes are perfect for slimming the silhouette and enhancing the bust without compressing it. Tankinis combine comfort, coverage, and modularity, very practical if you wish to conceal your tummy.

You can also opt for a bikini with a structuring top (encasing cups, underwire, wide straps) and a shaping but comfortable bottom. Slightly sculpting materials and dark or deep colors offer a very elegant look.

Note: Prioritize shaping materials, lined panels on the tummy, and vertical cutouts for an immediate slimming effect, without sacrificing comfort.

With these guidelines, you can now choose the flattering swimsuit silhouettes that match your body type, style, and comfort level. Try, compare, adjust: the important thing is that you feel good in your swimsuit.

Top/Bottom Combinations for a Flattering Effect

Harmonizing Volumes

For a swimsuit to truly enhance your figure, it's not enough to choose a pretty top or a pretty bottom: you need to think about the combination of the two. A good top/bottom duo helps to balance volumes, harmonize the silhouette, and create a cohesive look.

Experts advise playing with three levers:

• Volume (ruffles, frills, fabric thickness)

• Height (low-rise, regular, high-waist, high-cut)

• Contrast (colors, prints, textures)

For example, if you have an "8" body type, a very high-cut bottom elongates your legs and slims the silhouette, while a structured top will enhance your bust without flattening it. If you have a generous bust, avoid very soft bandeaus and prefer balconette or bralette tops with reinforced support.

For a "V" shaped silhouette, the idea is to choose a rather understated top (bralette, triangle, asymmetrical) and an original bottom (ruffles, ties, patterns) to draw attention to the lower body. "H" shaped silhouettes can combine bandeau or balconette tops with high-waisted or belted briefs to redefine the waist.

Tip: Think about the "rule of balance": many details on top = simpler bottom; very elaborate bottom = more minimalist top. This avoids overloading the silhouette and creates a harmonious overall look.

Modern trends are inspired by chic lingerie and sportswear. You can choose a bandeau bikini for an elegant look, an asymmetrical cut one-piece swimsuit for a contemporary touch, or even a sporty bralette-style top with a high-waisted bottom.

Innovative materials like waffle textures, scrunchy mix, ribs, or shaping panels add dimension and support. 90s influences are also making a comeback, with athletic bandeaus, thin straps, and tie-dye prints. You can play with vibrant colors, soft pastels, or neutral tones to create exactly the style you like.

Contrasts and Balance

Colors and patterns truly influence the perception of the silhouette. Dark colors slim, while bright, light colors and prints immediately catch the eye.

If you want to visually slim your hips, choose a solid, rather dark bottom, and wear a lighter top with patterns or details (ruffles, gathers, bows). If, on the contrary, you want to enhance your buttocks or hips, opt for a printed or colorful bottom and keep the top more minimalist.

• Dark colors structure and slim the silhouette.

• Bright colors and patterns highlight the area where they are located.

• Sculpting materials provide support and smooth curves.

• Details like ruffles, bows, or belts serve as focal points.

Tip: Don't hesitate to mix textures (smooth, waffle, ribbed) and finishes (matte, shiny). A textured top with a smooth bottom, or vice versa, creates dimension and highlights your figure without overdoing it.

You can also draw inspiration from chic sportswear by pairing a crop top with high-waisted bottoms, or choose a one-piece swimsuit with graphic cutouts for a modern effect. Top/bottom combinations are an excellent way to create your own style from a few well-chosen pieces.

Practical Tips

Try On and Adjust

When trying on, take the time to test your swimsuit as if you were already at the beach. Don't just stand still.

• Raise your arms, bend forward, sit down: the top should not slip, gape, or compress.

• Walk, take a few steps, simulate a small jump: the bottom should stay firmly in place without riding up or cutting into your waist.

Underwires provide good bust support, especially if you have a medium to deep cup size. Wide, adjustable straps further improve comfort and allow you to adapt the cup height to your stature. Encasing cups conform to the shape of the bust and prevent wrinkles or spillover.

Tip: Try at least two sizes and, if possible, two different shapes (triangle, balconette, bralette). Sometimes, the right cut matters as much as the size indicated on the label.

Comfort and Support

To feel good all day, your swimsuit must allow you to move freely while supporting the areas that need it. The material must be resistant to chlorine and UV rays, especially if you are often in the pool or exposed to the sun.

Seams must be regular, with no loose threads, and fasteners (rings, hooks, clasps) securely sewn in. A swimsuit that is too tight will bother you and create marks; a swimsuit that is too loose will float, shift, and lose support.

A close-fitting cut improves support and glide in the water, especially if you swim regularly.

• Freedom of movement without rubbing

• Durable material, soft against the skin

• Solid finishes to last several seasons

• Suitable size: neither too tight, nor too loose

Tip: Good support allows you to fully enjoy every activity – swimming, games, water sports – without thinking about your swimsuit with every movement.

Colors and Patterns

Colors and patterns truly influence the perception of the silhouette. Dark shades like black, navy blue, or deep green slim the silhouette and give an instant chic effect. Monochrome outfits (a single color from head to toe) visually elongate the body.

If you have an A-shaped body type, choose light colors and patterns on the top to draw attention to the bust, and more understated colors on the bottom. If you are V-shaped, do the opposite: a plain top, a more vibrant or printed bottom. For an O-shaped silhouette, vertical patterns, contrasting panels, and well-placed drapes work wonders.

Dare to use appealing patterns, refined textures, and colors that flatter your complexion. Your swimsuit should reflect your personality, not a single "ideal" silhouette model.

Do you want a swimsuit that enhances your beauty? Keep these simple guidelines in mind:

• Choose wide straps if you have a large bust or sensitive shoulders.

• Choose a high-cut style if you want to visually lengthen your legs.

• Prefer a solid, dark bottom to slim the hips and lower abdomen.

• Opt for a set that supports you well and in which you feel comfortable when you move.

Try several styles, have fun with colors, listen to your desires rather than dictates. Beachwear fashion should celebrate all silhouettes, not just a single ideal. What matters is that you feel good in your own skin... and in your swimsuit. 🌊

FAQ

How to choose the right swimsuit size?

Start by measuring your bust, waist, and hip circumference with a flexible tape measure. Then compare these measurements to the brand's size guide: the correspondence can vary from one brand to another. If you hesitate between two sizes, order or try both, then choose the one in which you breathe easily without the swimsuit gapping.

What swimsuit style flatters a curvy figure?

• Opt for one-piece models or tankinis with cutouts or draping on the tummy.

• Choose shaping materials, reinforced linings, and dark or deep colors.

• V-necklines, well-cut armholes, and wide straps provide comfortable support and a very elegant look.

Do patterns and colors really influence the silhouette?

Yes, clearly. Dark colors tend to visually slim and structure the line, while light colors and patterns draw the eye. You can use this effect to your advantage: a colorful or patterned top puts more emphasis on the bust, while a printed bottom will highlight the hips and legs.

Can you wear a high-waisted swimsuit if you are petite?

Of course! The high-waisted bottom visually elongates the legs, especially if it's slightly high-cut on the sides. You can choose a solid color for an even more vertical effect. Just make sure the waist height isn't too extreme for your stature to maintain a harmonious proportion between bust and legs.

How to care for your swimsuit to make it last?