We have nothing against bikinis, but there is something exceptionally sexy about one-piece bathing suits. Maybe it's the fact that they leave more to the imagination, or perhaps it's because they have only recently become popular again, so they are still a bit of a novelty. But one way or another, this season we're on the hunt for a killer full piece.
The best thing about one-piece suits is that they involve more fabric, so it's much easier to find one that flatters. Herewith, our no bullshi*t swimsuit guide for EVERY body type, one-piece edition.
Big Butt: If you’ve got an ample backside, high-cut swimsuits can often be uncomfortable and a bit too revealing. You'll need a suit with enough fabric in that area so you’re not constantly tugging for more coverage or picking a wedgie. So beyond avoiding skimpy cut swimsuits, you should look for designs in solid colors, without any extra frills or embellishments on the rear,
Mara Hoffman Reversible Knot Front Cutout One Piece, $253; Anne Cole Plus Size Mesh Combo One-Piece Swimsuit, $120
Flat Booty: This is a time when frills and ruching come in handy, as they give the illusion of a bigger behind. Opt for suits in bright colors and loud prints to try and distract from a flatter tush. Also, showing a little cheek is preferably to full-coverage bottoms.
Small Chest: Finding a suit that flatters your bust can be a challenge. The best bet for a gal with a smaller chest is to go for a suit with embellishments or ruffles around the chest to give the illusion of a larger bust. Alternatively, a suit with padding can help to give you a little somthin' somethin' extra.
HUGE Chest: For the girls with big girls, bathing suit tops that come in size S, M and L are not your friends. Cup sizes and underwire will offer you the support you need so you won't be all over the place when you take a dip. Also look for thicker bathing suit straps and double-stitched bands for the most flattering results.
Tall: We don't need to explain how hard it is for tall girls to find full-piece suits that are long enough. But a few brands carry suits in "tall" or "long torso," so you can get the extra length and still maintain a good fit.
Short Legs: If you want to elongate shorter legs, go for suits with high cuts in the leg (a la Kelly Kapowski). Since you are showing more skin, it will make your gams appear longer. And if you're really brave, go for a thong for optimal lengthening potential.
Solid & Stripe Alexandra One Piece Swimsuit, $148; American Apparel Cheetah Print High Cut One-Piece, $48
Full Thighs: To try and flatter a fuller thigh, opt for a suit with a little bit more coverage on the bottom. A full-piece with a skirt can help to conceal part of your upper leg.
Night and Day Halter One Piece by Becca, $79; La Isla Women's One Piece Bandeau Halter Slim Swimwear Swimsuit with Skirt, $32
Compact, Athletic Body: The goal here is to give the illusion of more curves, which is easily done with a top with cups, padding and gathering, and by girlie prints and bright colors. Don't go for straight-across bandeaus or shapeless full-pieces, as this will only enhance your athletic figure.
Back Fat: The last thing you want is a suit with thin straps that will dig into your skin and make those dreaded flesh folds even more pronounced. So reach for designs with thicker straps and high backs to smooth any lumps and bumps.
A Tummy Pouch: Hiding a tummy is actually much easier than most people think. Peplums, for example, aren't just great to wear to the office -- they are also perfect for a day at the beach. A full-piece with ruching can also help to conceal your stomach. A plunging neckline will help to keep the focus upwards, rather than on your mid-section.
Broad Shoulders: There are a few things you can do to balance out your body when you’ve got a set of broad shoulders. First, opt for a solid colored suit with printed panels along the side. This will help create the look of an hourglass figure, thus evening out a boxy upper body. You can also rock an asymmetrical neckline, which will draw the eye up and away, instead of straight across.
Big Hips, Skinny Legs: The key with this body figure combo is balancing out your shoulders and hips. And since you’ve got plenty of hip, pick a suit that gives the illusion of an elongated clavicle. These off-the-shoulder numbers will do the trick.
Beach Riot Onyx One-Piece, $130; Lisa Marie Fernandez M'O Exclusive Mira Ruffled Off The Shoulder Swimsuit, $430
*Parts of this article were co-authored with Julee Wilson, Senior Fashion Editor
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