One of the most frequent questions I am asked as a stylist is, “How do I find the right swimsuit for my body?”

Ladies,  NO “body”  is perfect- even the gorgeous models I dress every day have trouble spots- each of us has something we are trying to minimize, maximize or camouflage.

Generally speaking,  there are four basic body types that each have their own challenges: Straight Figure (no curves here), Pear Shaped (carries weight through hips, legs and thighs), Apple Body (large upper body with fuller breasts) and Hourglass (curvy in both upper and lower body).

I sat down with Nikki Meier, Swimspot.com’s lead Fit Specialist who shared her secrets for selecting the perfect swimsuit for your body type!

Q: Selecting a swimsuit is one of the most difficult and emotionally challenging things a woman can do!  What is your advice for ladies with a Straight Figure.  How can they add some curves?

NM: Create the illusion of hips with a bikini bottom that is detailed with ruffles.  This popular style by Ella Moss creates curves while still giving you a flirty fun feel.

(Suit name: Ella Moss- solid bandeau bikini top and skirted solid bikini bottom)

For those with a small chest, ruffles are a great way to bring dimension and attention to your bust line.  The chiffon ruffles on this Luxe by Lisa Vogel bandeau will add a little boost to your bust.

(Suit name: Luxe by Lisa Vogel – Solaia Bandeau and Retro Bikini Bottom)

Q: What about those with a Pear Shaped body? How can we minimize that troubled area?

NM: Pick a patterned top and match it back to a solid bottom, preferably black or a neutral color.  This trick will have the eye focusing upward and away from your trouble spot.

(Suit name: Athena – African Queen Tankini and African Queen Banded Swim Bottom)

Another solution would be to try one of this season’s most talked about silhouette’s: the swim skirt.  With a little extra fabric around the high and thigh it’s perfect for hiding your trouble spots.  This option by NEXT offers complete coverage with shorts underneath the skort!

(Suit name: NEXT – Chisel’d Tankini Top and Good Karma Skort)

Q: Apple Shaped Bodies. One of the most difficult to fit in swimsuits.  How can these ladies even things out?

NM: Opt for suits with thicker straps for support and side shirring to camouflage trouble spot.  This Athena one pieces offers added bonus: Slim-power lining and tummy control panel to create a slimming silhouette.

(Suit name: Athena – Heavenly Bandeau Fauxkini)

For those with  larger chests, when choosing a suit look for features that will give you support.  This racer back styled top is a good alternative to a halter top.  It offers relief from weight and tension from the neck.  The underwire also helps with lift and support.

(Suit name: NEXT – Good Karma Sports Bra and Banded Retro Bikini Bottom)

Q: The Hourglass. What should these gals look for in a swimsuit?

NM: A fixed bikini top is ideal for hourglass shapes since it gives a little extra support.  Pair it with a tie side bikini bottom which will sit gently on the hip, allowing you to look and feel comfortable while showing some skin.

(Suit name: Splendid – Parker Paid Triangle Top and Tie Side Bottom)

Q: Any other fit tips you’d like to share?

NM: Petite frames are another body type challenge.  Sleek vertical prints and plunging necklines will optimize your body and give the illusion of a longer physique.

(Suit name: Luxe by Lisa Vogel – Cougarette Maillot)

Still worried about venturing out to find the perfect swimsuit on your own?  Swimspot.com has the solution for you.

The Fit Specialist Program.  Via phone or email their Fit Specialists will help guide you into the right style and fit based on your individual taste, preference and body type.

BONUS: This service is Free!  Schedule an appointment today!

Call 1-877-684-7946 or email  [email protected] to schedule a one-on-one fit appointment. Be prepared to share  in advance of your session your body type, brand & style preferences, dimensions, and any other valuable info you feel will aid  in optimizing your concierge appointment. When you contact swimspot.com Fit Specialist, please let them know your desired appointment date and time. They will attempt to accommodate your request, or schedule an alternate date & time.

Take $15 OFF Your Designer Swimwear Order, Plus Get Free Shipping Both Ways! Use code SPOTME$15. Minimum Order $99.

Swimspot.com wants to get you perfectly suited this season!  1 lucky winner will receive a $125 Swimspot.com gift card!

To Enter:

First, if you haven’t already, subscribe to this blog. (You can subscribe VIA EMAIL at the top right of sidebar)

Then visit Swimspot.com and leave a comment on this post between July 24 and July 30 telling me which swimsuit you have your eye on!

Good Luck and Thanks for Reading!

Last weeks Lucky winner is Krystle!  Congrats!