Choosing a swimsuit based on your body shape means identifying cuts and styles that balance the body's natural proportions, enhancing strengths: for an hourglass figure, a one-piece swimsuit follows the waistline; for an apple shape, a bandeau top with high-waisted briefs balances the décolleté; for a pear shape, a structured top draws attention to the shoulders.

How do you identify your body shape?

Before choosing a swimsuit, it's helpful to identify your shape by observing the relationship between your shoulders, waist, and hips. An hourglass figure has shoulders and hips of similar width with a well-defined waist. An apple shape has a fuller midsection, with shoulders and hips narrower than the waist. A pear shape has hips wider than the shoulders, with a still visible waist. A rectangle shape has similar measurements for shoulders, waist, and hips, without a markedly narrow waist. There is no "best" shape: every body type has swimsuit cuts that enhance its natural proportions, instead of trying to hide them.

Which swimsuit should you choose based on your body shape?

Which swimsuit flatters an hourglass figure?

Those with an hourglass figure can wear most cuts, as the waist is already naturally defined. A Mermaid one-piece swimsuit in a textured weave follows the body's lines without hiding them, enhancing the silhouette with a design that naturally follows the waistline. Alternatively, a high-waisted bikini maintains the same proportion between the top and bottom, without drawing attention to a single point of the body.

Which swimsuit is best suited for an apple figure?

For an apple figure, the goal is to balance the body's midsection and give structure to the upper body. A Perla triangle bikini top paired with Perla high-waisted bikini briefs creates a continuous line that covers and supports the abdominal area, without excessively accentuating the waist. The high waist of the briefs, in particular, acts similarly to light shapewear, remaining comfortable even in water or in the sun for several hours.

Which swimsuit flatters a pear figure?

For a pear figure, where the hips are more pronounced than the shoulders, a top that adds structure to the upper part is advisable to visually balance the proportions. The Sole bikini top with thin straps and a square neckline optically widens the shoulders thanks to the cut of the neckline, while for the bottom, simple briefs are preferable, without flashy details on the hips, so as not to add volume where the body already naturally has it.

Which swimsuit to choose for a rectangle figure?

For a rectangle figure, the goal is to create the illusion of a more defined waist through the swimsuit's cut. An Onda V-cut Brazilian bikini bottom paired with a top with side details or ruching helps create a more defined waistline, without the need for drastic cuts or overly rigid constructions. A one-piece swimsuit with side cut-outs also works well for this figure, as the cut at the waist creates a visual break that restores proportion to the silhouette.

Can you buy tops and bottoms in different sizes?

Yes, and it's a very common choice when breast size doesn't match hip size, a frequent situation for those with a pear or very defined hourglass figure. Buying tops and bottoms separately, instead of a fixed-size one-piece swimsuit, allows you to choose the right cup for the top without having to compromise on the correct fit for the briefs. In the Risalti bikini line, triangle models, like the Perla top, easily pair with different size briefs, maintaining color and fabric texture consistency. This approach also reduces the risk of having to compromise between support and comfort, the two most important elements in a swimsuit to wear all day between the beach and the water.

How do you choose the right size for a swimsuit?

In addition to the cut, the correct size is crucial for the final look of the swimsuit. A swimsuit that is too small digs into the skin and restricts movement in the water, while one that is too large loses its shape and support after the first dip. For a bikini top, the main references are the underbust circumference and the cup, while for briefs, waist and hips are important, similar to shapewear. Those looking for a shaping effect under the swimsuit, for example, on holiday after a period of less physical activity, can combine a light garment from the shapewear line, as explained in the guide Shapewear: What it is, Benefits and How to Choose It, also useful for understanding the different levels of compression available.

Which fabric to choose for a swimsuit that lasts multiple seasons?

The fabric affects the durability of the swimsuit as much as the cut chosen based on body shape. Textured compression weaves, like that of the Mermaid one-piece swimsuit, maintain their shape even after repeated contact with seawater, pool chlorine, and direct sun, three factors that tend to degrade cheaper fabrics within a few weeks. Rinsing the swimsuit in fresh water after each swim and letting it air dry in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources, helps preserve both the color and the elasticity of the fabric. A good quality swimsuit, cared for in this way, maintains the same fit and effect on the body even after several summer seasons, an investment that over time proves more cost-effective than annual replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions about choosing a swimsuit based on body shape

Does a one-piece swimsuit flatter all body types?
Yes, but the cut should be chosen based on the shape: waist cut-outs for an hourglass figure, vertical lines for a rectangle, structured fabric for apple and pear shapes.

Is a triangle or bandeau bikini better for an apple figure?
A triangle top with high-waisted briefs is generally more suitable because it structures the upper part and comfortably covers the midsection without accentuating the waist.

How do you balance pronounced hips with a swimsuit?
By opting for a top with details or straps that optically widen the shoulders and simple briefs, without patterns or added volume on the hips.

Is there a swimsuit cut that looks good on every body type?
There isn't a universal cut, but the high-waisted bikini is one of the most versatile, as it offers comfort and good visual balance on most body shapes.

The entire selection is available in the women's swimwear collection and the broader women's beachwear section, featuring tops, bottoms, and one-piece swimsuits designed for every body shape. To also guide you through the season's colors and styles, the summer trends guide compiles the most requested beach fashion trends.