Think About What You Love Most About Your Body—There's a Swimsuit for That

One of the best things about summer is relaxing in the sun by some body of water, whether it's the buzziest beach destination or a friend's boat by the lake. If we're honest, nothing can tamper joy faster on days like that than realizing that you don't feel good in your bathing suit. Of course, many factors can make one feel that way, including struggling to find size-inclusive swimwear and modest options. Nothing, however, can make you feel worse than acquiescing to the notion that you should dress for your body type rather than prioritize what makes you feel good in your body. Historically, there's been this long-held notion that you have to shop for swimwear options that hide areas of your body you might not be the most proud of rather than flaunt what your mom gave you.

While there's nothing wrong with wanting to know the most flattering swimsuits for different body types, experts know that bodies don't neatly fit into one box. At least, that's one of the fundamental beliefs of seasoned celebrity stylist and TV personality Cindy Conroy. As she has years of experience helping women with their style, we decided to tap Conroy for guidance on how to find the best swimsuits for every body type so that you can look and feel your best for the rest of the summer. Ahead, you'll find a breakdown of what types of suits will show off the areas of your body you love most, swimwear shopping tips, and a curation of the best beachwear on the market. Do you love your waist? There's a swimsuit for that. Want to show off your backside? She's got you covered in that department too.

About Our Expert

How long have you been a stylist? How has your experience within the industry informed how you approach shopping for swimwear?

I've been a stylist for about 10 years now. On my journey from personal to celebrity stylist, there's been one common thread regarding women and swimwear. Many women feel like their body isn't perfect enough. When I shop for swimsuits, my goal is to find selects that make women smile when they look in the mirror. The perfect body is a myth. Instead of stressing, we must love them as is—cellulite, stretch marks, and all.

It's no secret that shopping for a swimsuit can be stressful. What's the one piece of advice you'd impart to anyone currently in the market for a new bathing suit?

Don't settle for a bathing suit that makes you feel less than, no matter how cute the style, cut, or pattern [is].

Best Swimsuits for Showcasing Certain Features

What's one of the biggest misconceptions people have about shopping for flattering swimwear?

Many people think they can't wear certain types of swimwear based on their body type. That's simply not true. Swimsuits are for everyone. It's less about finding the "best" swimsuit based on body types and more about finding a suit that showcases your favorite body part.

As a stylist, what type of swimwear would you suggest to showcase people's favorite features on their bodies?

Whether your favorite feature is your backside, chest, or waist, there's a suit for that. Ahead, you'll find a breakdown of the best swimsuits to showcase your favorite body part…

For Back: Low-Back Swimsuits

Often, the back doesn't get a lot of love when it comes to swimwear, but if you want to change that, insert the low-back swim trend. It showcases the curvature of your back and creates beautiful lines—it's half naked but in a conservative way.

For Shoulders: Asymmetrical-Cut Swimsuits

One-shoulder swimsuits are an experiment in proportions, making them the perfect way to show off your stunning shoulders. The asymmetrical cut works overtime to break up your neckline and highlight and soften the contours of your shoulders. If your shoulders are broad, it's going to make sure they hold less focus.

For Collarbones: Halter Bikini Tops

On your next vacation, hit refresh and try a halter bikini to add some flair to your neck and collarbone. Drawing the eye up, it's very Old Hollywood while staying grounded in the here and now.

For Chest: Underwire Bikini Tops

If you want to make your breasts the belle of the ball (or the beach), gravitate to an underwire bikini top. It offers oodles of support for your bust, meaning you can frolic and enjoy a full day of beachside fun without worry. Plus, the construction adds lift and volume right where you need it, further enhancing your chest.

For Waist: Retro High-Waist Briefs

String bikinis are cute, but sometimes, it's all about that waist—that's where retro high-rise bottoms come in. These bottoms accentuate your waist, and the high cut adds a playful, vintage twist. For those who want slightly more coverage, high-waisted bottoms bring retro glam to poolside sitting.

For Legs: High-Cut One-Pieces

If you want to show off your legs, opt for a runway-inspired high-cut one-piece. With more hip exposed than a traditional bikini bottom, it instantly elongates your body's lines, making you appear taller in 2.5 seconds.

For Butt: Micro-Thong Bikinis

If you want your butt to be center stage, invest in a micro-thong bikini. With its cellophane-like layers, it gives very little coverage but delivers maximum impact, making you look extra curvy and voluptuous for all your seaside adventures.

Swimsuit Shopping Tips

What's one styling hack that you feel makes any swimwear more flattering?

As you dry off après swim, instead of wrapping a sarong around your waist, try something a little different. Don a breezy knit miniskirt and cotton shirt in a matching hue. Creating this incredible colorway will give you a look that will make you feel sexy in your own skin, expertly framing your body with breathable fabrics too.

What are some of the biggest mistakes that shoppers make when shopping for swimwear?

Here are a few common mistakes you can avoid…

Mistake #1: Only Buying One Type of Swimsuit

Often, shoppers make the mistake of buying one swimsuit for every type of activity. While that makes total sense for your wallet, it doesn't consider that sometimes you need a sporty fit for more athletic activities. Do consider what type of swimsuit you need for your plans because you don't want to be that person at the beach playing in the waves, and suddenly, your bikini unties and floats away.

Mistake #2: Discounting One-Piece Suits

Many people think one-piece suits are for grandmas. This is false. There are plenty of one-piece suits with "sultry vixen" written all over them. Shop away.

Mistake #3: Assuming One Size Fits All

One of the biggest swimwear mistakes is buying a set that only comes in one size. There is no option to mix and match sizes. While that makes total sense in theory, most of us aren't the same size on the top and bottom, making what fits in one area a problem for another. Instead, look for matching sets where you can play size roulette and shop according to your shape. Size up where you need it and down when necessary.

Mistake #4: Being Overly Cautious With Sizing

It's one thing to wear an oversize bathing suit as a kid. As an adult, the growth spurts are over, and it's an absolute no. Over time, bathing suits stretch, so sizing up on swimsuit bottoms might seem like a good idea in theory but is actually a recipe for saggy butt syndrome. Avoid this common mistake by buying bottoms that fit snugly. That way, when you get out of the water, you won't have a puddle of fabric.

Lastly, are there any swimwear trends you'd recommend adopting this summer?

Step into the ethereal world of seashells and starfish and experience the mermaidcore trend before it's gone. It will be a nice treat when you want to remix your bathing suit rotation. It's swimwear but stylized thanks to its highly embellished detailing and ornate bikini tops. I highly recommend it. You'll love it!