How to Choose a Bikini

Co-authored by Erin Micklow

Last Updated: August 6, 2021 References

For many people, bikini season brings to mind sun, sand, and relaxation. Unfortunately choosing a bikini can feel like a daunting task. With the right frame of mind and a little preparation, bikini shopping can feel like a day at the beach. Letting go of preconceived ideas and going into the experience with an open mind can help immensely. Buying a bikini can be an enjoyable experience if you consider your body type and bikini options.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Choosing a Bikini for Your Body Type

1
Select a tankini if you are apple shaped. Apple shapes have a larger midsection and thin legs and arms. Tankinis with shirring or shapewear in the stomach can draw attention away from that area. A bottom with high cut sides will show off your legs.
2
Pick a ruffle bikini if you have an athletic shape. Athletic shapes have a straight up and down body without many curves, and adding a ruffle can trick the eye. A bikini with a ruffle on top and bottom will give the illusion of a shapelier figure by adding volume to those areas. Ruffles can also be used on just one piece of a bikini to emphasize only one area.
3
Choose a string bikini if you have an hourglass shape. Hourglass shapes have a small waist with nearly identical bust and hip measurements. A string bikini will accentuate your curves and draw attention to your waist. Many string bikini bottoms have side ties that allow you to adjust the fit.
4
Select an underwire bikini if you are pear shaped. Pear shapes have larger hips with a small waist and bust. An underwire top will enhance your bust and draw the eye up. Pair it with a hipster bikini bottom as they offer more coverage in back while lending balance to your hips.^{[1]
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- On the flip side, if you've got a bigger bust, underwire tops provide good support.^{[2]
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  Expert Source
  
  Erin Micklow
  Professional Stylist
  Expert Interview. 23 April 2019.}

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Highlighting and Concealing your Features

1
Select light colors to draw attention. Lighter shades can highlight areas, especially when a used with a darker shade. If you are an apple shape and want to highlight your legs, wear a light blue bottom with a navy top. Similarly if you are an hourglass shape and want to highlight your waist, choose a light colored top and bottom. ^{[3]
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2
Look to dark colors for concealment. You can draw attention away from specific areas with dark colors. Black is a go to color for this, but any dark color can work. A dark colored top paired with a lighter or patterned bottom will help disguise a large bust area.
3
Choose patterns to balance your figure. Patterns draw the eye and can create symmetry, especially when used with a solid. A small pattern top with a solid bottom can balance your figure if you are pear shaped.
- Use stripes to your advantage. If you want to give the illusion of longer legs, a vertical striped bottom can help.
- Drawing attention to your bust and hips with horizontal stripes can make your waist seem smaller.
4
Try embellishments to show off your figure. Whatever part of your body you wish to highlight can be done with embellishments. Jewels, sequins, flowers, and cut outs can all draw attention to specific areas. If you aren’t comfortable with a top and bottom with decoration, try it on just one piece and use a solid for the other piece.^{[4]
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Purchasing Your Bikini

1
Choose a top that stays in place. The best way to see whether this is the case? Jump around in the fitting room with your bikini top on. If it slips out of place, digs into you, or feels awkward, it's not the right one for you - it'll do the same when you're moving around in the pool or ocean.
- Halter tops with thicker straps are a great option for people with a bigger bust.^{[5]
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  Expert Source
  
  Erin Micklow
  Professional Stylist
  Expert Interview. 23 April 2019.}
2
Choose a comfortable bottom. The bottom part of the bikini should not only stay in place but also feel snug and not be on its way to giving you a wedgie. Look for a bottom that fits your measurements - you should measure your hips at their fullest point, which may not be your hipbones! Use a mirror to determine the largest part of your hips, then translate your measurements to bikini sizes.
- For example, in the U.S., a hip measurement of ³⁷⁄₃₈ inch (2.5 cm) would be a size small.^{[6]
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3
Buy your bikini in a store if possible. Trying on a bikini before you buy it will give you a chance to try multiple styles. This will also help ensure you have the correct fit. If you order your bikini online, check the site for a sizing chart and read reviews regarding fit. Make sure you read and understand the site’s return policy.
4
Try on mix and match bikinis. Many retailers offer consumers the option to personalize their bikinis. This will allow you to choose a top and bottom that you are comfortable wearing and fit you best. Mixing and matching is especially helpful if you need a different size for the top and bottom.^{[7]
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5
Decide which material is best for you. There are advantages and disadvantages to the most common materials used in swimsuits. When choosing one, think of the activities you will be participating in as well as swimsuit longevity.^{[8]
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- For a strong material that is lightweight, choose nylon, Lycra, or neoprene. These are often mixed with other materials and have been treated to withstand the elements.
- If you want a suit to withstand chlorine and fading, choose Polyester. It is usually mixed with other materials to enhance the swimsuit’s qualities. This is an extremely common material for swimsuits.
- For competitive suits, choose Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) for its natural stretching ability. This material also stands up to chlorine exposure.

Community Q&A

Question

My bikini top shows both sides of my boobs. Do they make bikinis with more of a sports bra style?

Elana Vanderbilt

Community Answer

Yes, they do, and you can find them on Amazon, Target, or even Walmart.
Question

Is 14 to young to wear a bikini?

Community Answer

No, as long as it fits correctly, doesn't show too much, and is in your comfort zone.
Question

How can I convince my mom to let me buy a bikini?

Community Answer

Put together your reasons for wanting a bikini. Convince her that you are mature enough to wear one and tell her that you will save up money to buy your own. Also, try this link: http://www.wikihow.com/Convince-Your-Mom-and-Dad-to-Let-You-Wear-Halter-Tops-and-Tankinis Good luck, girl!