Shopping for swimwear can feel overwhelming and frustrating. You want to feel confident, comfortable and stylish, but often it’s tricky to find flattering styles that tick all the boxes.

Many women are fixated on hang-ups about their shape, instead of working with it. Shopping for swimwear shouldn’t be about squeezing into something “flattering.” Nor should it be about looking for something you can hide in. The styling game changes when you understand your body type. You start shopping with precision and showing up on the beach or by the pool feeling more at ease with your body.

The good news? The right style really does exist for every body shape! Here’s what to look for, based on five classic body types, with practical styling tips to help you feel great on the beach and by the pool this summer.

PS: If you’re ready to stop negotiating with your wardrobe every day, my online Body Shape Styling service gives you more than just a label for your body type - it hands you the blueprint for outfits that honour the body you have now. When you know your shape, your style stops being a struggle. Shopping gets simpler, dressing gets faster, and what you wear finally feels like you.

Rectangle Shape (also called Column Shape)

Your bust, waist and hips are fairly aligned, giving a leaner, straighter shape.

Try these swimwear styles for Rectangles:

• Cut-outs or side panels to add more curves

• Belted swimsuits or wrap details to define the waist

• Textured fabrics and bold prints to add volume

• Triangle or push-up tops and frills to soften the frame

Tip: Focus on creating shape through structure, colour and embellishments.

Strawberry Shape (also called Inverted Triangle)

You have broad shoulders and/or bust with narrower hips.

Try these swimwear styles for Strawberries:

• Deep V-necks and rounder necks to break up the shoulder line

• Plain tops paired with patterned or detailed bottoms

• Frills, ties or ruching on bikini bottoms to add volume

• Supportive but minimalistic tops to avoid widening the upper half

Tip: Emphasis volume downwards for a balanced silhouette.

Apple Shape

You tend to carry weight around the middle, often with a fuller bust and slimmer legs.

Try these swimwear styles for Apples:

• Swimsuits with ruching or draped fabric across the tummy

• V-neck or wrap styles that draw the eye vertically

• Strong under-bust support or shaping panels

• Darker colour blocking around the waist

Tip: Look for detailing near the neckline to pull attention upwards.

Pear Shape

Your hips and thighs are broader than your upper body, and you have a neatly defined waist.

Try these swimwear styles for Pears:

• Bikini or tankini tops with bold prints or bright colours on the top half

• High-cut leg styles to elongate your legs

• Frilled or padded tops to balance proportions

• Darker, plain bottoms to streamline your lower half

Tip: Draw the eye upwards with shape and colour to create natural balance.

Hourglass Shape

You have a defined waist with balanced bust and hip proportions.

Try these swimwear styles for Hourglasses:

• Structured one-pieces with waist detail

• Bikinis with underwired or tie tops and high-waisted briefs

• Styles that follow your natural curve without clinging too tight

• Classic cuts in bold block colours or flattering prints

Tip: Enhance your natural shape rather than covering it up.

Final Thoughts on the Best Swimwear styles for your body shape

Remember, these aren’t rigid rules, just helpful starting points. The most important thing is that you feel good in what you wear. Swimwear should feel like self-expression, not self-critique - so have fun, experiment, and wear what makes you feel like you.

Regardless of your shape or size, the colour you wear can make just as much difference as the cut. A swimsuit in the right shade brings warmth to your skin tone, highlights your features and gives you a natural glow.

To find out which 40 shades flatter you best, you can book a colour analysis either online or in person. You’ll get a custom palette that helps you choose swimwear and holiday outfits with complete confidence.