Shopping for bikinis is right up there with finding the perfect pair of jeans—they can be a challenge, but once you find the right fit, you’re all set. But is there a shortcut to finding a swimsuit that’s flattering?
Interested to find out tips from an expert, we tapped Solid & Striped’s design director, Michelle Copelman, to weigh in on how to find the perfect swimsuit style for your body type—specifically, how to find the right style for your butt. In the end, Copelman believes “it really is about the style you feel most comfortable in. Comfort translates to confidence, and confidence ensures you will look great lounging at the pool or beach,” but she revealed that there are a few styles that tend to flatter your back end.
She explained to Who What Wear that “it is tough to pinpoint exactly one swimsuit style that is universally flattering for each individual’s bottom since each body is so unique.” However, she revealed that “cheekier bikini bottoms are usually very flattering because they have a slimming effect and show off your best assets.” But while Copelman calls out the “cheeky” style, there are, in fact, three different silhouettes she says to look for when shopping for the most flattering bikini. Want to find out what they are?
Keep reading to find out the most flattering swimsuit styles for your butt and shop our favorites.
CHEEKY
"Cheekier bikini bottoms, like The Olivia, are usually very flattering because they have a slimming effect and show off your best assets."
Solid & Striped Olivia Top ($78) and Olivia Bottoms ($78)Not only is this a cheeky cut, but it's also high-rise.
Finished with feminine ruffles.
For Love & Lemons Alicante Lace Triangle Top ($97) and Alicante Ruffle Bottoms ($68)This style also comes in black.
Matteau The Petite Triangle Bikini Top ( $120 ) and The String Bikini Bottoms ($120)Australian brand Matteau is popular among fashion insiders.
Pack this for your next beach getaway.
She Made Me Crochet Halter Bikini Top ( $120 ) and Cheeky Bikini Bottoms ($90)Pair yours with a wide-brim hat.
Acacia Mesh Haku Top ($106) and Mesh Ho'okipa Bottoms ($72)The cutouts in the top are a cool detail.
HIGH-WAISTED
"If you are looking for a suit that is a little less cheeky and gives you more coverage, I’d go with a high-waisted bikini, like The Brigitte. High-waisted bikinis are more slimming on the tummy and accentuate your curves to give you a nice shape."
Solid & Striped Brigitte Top ($78) and Brigitte Bottoms ($78)A high-waisted bikini is flattering because it hits at the smallest part of your waist.
Related: French Girls Avoid These Swimsuit Styles
Tap into Italian style with this bikini.
Diane von Furstenberg Twist Bandeau Top ($148) ( $104 ) and High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms ($83)A nod to retro style.
H&M Triangle Bikini Top ($25) and High-Waist Bikini Bottoms ($18)Give a bold print a try with this style from H&M.
Mara Hoffman Sia Bikini Top ($105) and Lydia Bikini Bottoms ($105)Classic and timeless.
Marysia Swim Palm Springs Metallic Tie Top ($189) and Palm Springs Metallic Tie Bottoms ($189)Finished with scalloped edges.
Related: This Swimsuit Style Looks Good on Everyone (Seriously)
WIDE WAISTBAND
"More athletic bikini bottoms like The Elle, for example, have a substantially thicker waistband and provide just enough coverage for certain areas."
Solid & Striped Elle Top ($88) and Elle Bottoms ($88)Avoid swimsuits that dig into your sides by choosing one with a wide waistband.
Polka dots give this bikini a retro feel.
This terra-cotta color taps into a cool, neutral palette.
Ashley Graham Jefa Bikini Top ($52) and Jefa Bikini Bottoms ($36)Finished with a keyhole cutout.
Forever 21 Ribbed Bikini Top ($18) and Ribbed Bikini Bottoms ($12)This style also comes in black.
Three Graces London Asterea Triangle Bikini Top ($105) and Asterea Bikini Bottoms ($85)A sunny color like this marigold shade is perfect for summer.
Mikoh Madrid Bikini Top ($112) and Hulalalai Bikini Bottoms ($56)Perfect for a beach holiday.
Next, read about the swimsuit style that looks good on everyone.
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