(Photo by Jernej Graj)
Finding the perfect swimsuit or bikini shouldn't be about changing how your body looks. It should be about finding swimwear that fits properly, feels comfortable and gives you the support and coverage you want.
Whether you're looking for something to wear by the pool, heading to the beach or actually planning on getting some lengths in, the right fit can make a huge difference.
From getting your measurements right to choosing between different bikini tops, bottoms and swimsuits, here's our guide to finding women's swimwear that works for you.
Start With the Right Size
It sounds obvious, but finding your correct size is the best place to start.
Swimwear sizing can vary between brands, so don't automatically assume that the size you usually wear in dresses or T-shirts will be the right one for your swimsuit.
Before ordering, take a few simple measurements and compare them with the individual brand's size guide.
The most useful measurements are:
Bust – Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level around your back.
Underbust – Measure directly underneath your bust. This is particularly useful when choosing supportive or cup-sized bikini tops.
Waist – Measure around the narrowest part of your natural waist.
Hips – Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom.
Keep the tape comfortably against your body rather than pulling it tight.
If your measurements fall across two different sizes, don't panic. Bodies don't necessarily correspond perfectly with a clothing size chart, which is one reason bikinis that allow you to choose your top and bottoms separately can be particularly useful.
How Should a Swimsuit Fit?
Swimwear generally needs to fit a little closer to the body than everyday clothing.
A well-fitting swimsuit should sit smoothly against your body without large gaps, sagging or excessive bunching. At the same time, it shouldn't feel so tight that straps dig painfully into your shoulders or leg openings feel restrictive.
Try moving around rather than simply standing in front of the mirror.
Lift your arms above your head, sit down, bend over and walk around.
Your swimsuit should stay comfortably in position as you move.
Remember that swimwear is designed to be worn in water. A swimsuit that already feels noticeably loose when dry is unlikely to become more secure once you're swimming.
Think About Your Bust Support
Different swimwear tops can offer very different levels of support.
If you want more support, look for features such as underwiring, adjustable straps, wider straps, moulded or removable cups and supportive underbands.
Cup-sized swimwear can also be useful if standard dress-sized bikini tops don't give you the right combination of band and bust fit.
For a smaller bust or if support simply isn't a priority, triangle tops, bandeaus and lighter bralette styles can offer a more minimal fit.
There isn't one style that's automatically right for a particular bust size.
What matters is finding the amount of support you feel comfortable wearing.
Adjustable Straps Are Your Friend
One of the most useful features to look for when buying swimwear is adjustability.
Bodies aren't all built to the same proportions, even when two people technically wear the same clothing size.
Adjustable shoulder straps allow you to change the length to suit your body, while tie-side bikini bottoms and adjustable bikini tops give you even more control over the fit.
This can be particularly helpful when you're between sizes.
Just remember that straps shouldn't be doing all the work. If you have to tighten them excessively to keep your bikini top in position, you may need a more supportive band or a different size.
Choose the Coverage You Actually Want
There's no correct amount of coverage when it comes to swimwear.
Some women prefer high-waisted bikini bottoms and fuller swimsuits, while others feel most comfortable in high-cut bottoms, triangle bikinis or more minimal styles.
Rather than thinking about what you're supposedly meant to wear, consider where you'll be wearing it and what you'll actually be doing.
If you're planning to spend most of the day swimming or being active, you might prefer something that stays securely in place.
If you're lounging around the pool on holiday, you might prioritise style or minimal tan lines instead.
The right swimsuit is the one you don't have to spend all day adjusting.
High-Waisted or Low-Rise?
The rise of your bikini bottoms can completely change how they feel.
High-waisted bikini bottoms sit higher around the waist and usually offer more coverage across the stomach and bottom. They're a great option if you like a more secure fit or simply prefer the style.
Mid-rise bottoms offer a classic middle ground, while lower-rise styles sit closer to the hips.
High-leg cuts are another option and can give swimwear a more contemporary silhouette without necessarily reducing coverage elsewhere.
Try different rises rather than assuming there's one particular cut you should be wearing.
Don't Forget About Torso Length
This is an easy one to overlook when buying a one-piece swimsuit.
Two women with very similar bust, waist and hip measurements can have completely different torso lengths.
If a swimsuit constantly pulls upwards, the straps dig into your shoulders or the neckline sits lower than intended, the body of the swimsuit may simply be too short for you.
Likewise, excess fabric or bunching through the middle can indicate that the body is too long.
Some swimwear brands offer long-torso options, while adjustable straps can provide a little extra flexibility.
When buying a swimsuit online, it's worth checking whether the brand provides a torso or body-loop measurement alongside the usual bust, waist and hip measurements.
Consider What You're Using It For
Not all swimwear needs to do the same job.
For swimming and watersports, secure straps, supportive designs and styles that allow plenty of movement are usually more important.
For a beach holiday, you may want something versatile enough for swimming, sunbathing and throwing a shirt or shorts over afterwards.
And for poolside lounging, you can afford to prioritise whichever colours, cuts and details you simply like wearing.
Think about how you'll actually use your swimwear before choosing it.
That beautiful strapless swimsuit might be perfect beside the pool but considerably less practical when you're diving into the sea.
Try Different Styles
It's very easy to decide that you can only wear one type of swimwear.
But sometimes the style you wouldn't normally choose ends up being the one you like most.
Try one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, high-waisted bottoms, triangle tops, bralettes and different leg cuts.
Colours and prints can also completely change how a particular shape feels.
Don't get too caught up in rules about which swimwear supposedly suits which body type.
If you put something on and feel good wearing it, that's a considerably better test.
Comfort Is the Best Fit Test
Ultimately, the best-fitting swimwear is something you can put on and then stop thinking about.
You shouldn't spend your entire day pulling the bottoms back into position, adjusting your straps or worrying that something is going to move the moment you get into the water.
Look for a fit that feels secure without being restrictive, supportive where you want support and comfortable enough to actually enjoy wearing.
Because finding the right swimwear isn't about finding the right body for a swimsuit.
It's about finding the right swimsuit for you.
Explore new women's swimwear at Brag Vintage and discover swimsuits, bikinis and beach-ready styles from our latest brands.
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