Every woman wants to look fabulous wherever she goes, but for those with fuller figures the beach is a daunting destination. Skinny, model-esque women strut their stuff in itsy bitsy triangle bikini tops. When will designers learn that women come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they all want to look beautiful on the beach?
Designers are finally listening. Stop hiding under towels, beach umbrellas, and cowering in the shade! Get out there and strut right along with those other ladies. Stop trying to stuff yourself into bathing suits designed for twigs and check out the fun, fashionable and sexy offerings for the fuller figured woman.
Layers
Layers in a bathing suit? Yes! Look for designs that offer a slimming inner layer with spandex or lycra to slim your silhouette, as well as an outer layer to hide unwanted bulges. Ruching at problem areas is one really fabulous example of this style. Ruching helps diminish areas you’d rather hide. It’s forgiving and supportive at the same time. Styles that offer adjustable ruching with strings are even better because you can shape it any way you like.
Tops
We all love the girls, but we need to keep them under control! Look for designs that offer underwires and molded cups (without padding) to keep the girls pert and control bounce. Thicker straps offer better support, and some designs offer bra-like fastenings at the back for a more secure fit. If thick straps don’t suit you, look for designs that offer multi-band straps to get that same support and still have a modern look. If you love cleavage, look for designs that offer adjustable coverage, have silicone edging to keep things in place, or have other features to ensure the support you need.
For those who would rather keep the girls hidden, look for high neckline styles. These styles elongate the body and offer a slimming effect also. Tankini tops with ruching at the sides hide muffin tops. Empire waists offer that hourglass effect by emphasizing what’s often the slimmest part of the fuller figure.
Bottoms
Mix and match your tops and bottoms for size for the best fit, and to keep things fresh. Look for strings and other adjustable features to help swimwear fit your body perfectly. Avoid scooped waistbands that emphasize a larger tummy and choose instead designs that offer straight waistlines, and folded waists for more tummy support.
Avoid buckles, belts, rings, and other bling on the bottom which will draw attention to thick hips and thighs.
Patterns and Colors
Small all-over prints keep the eyes moving and don’t draw attention to any one part. Vertical lines elongate the body. Look for patterns that offer hourglass lines through the tummy for an ultra-slimming effect. Thin horizontal stripes are better for fuller figures than thick stripes.
Use embellishments to draw attention where you want it. Glittery, jewelled accents divert eyes from heavier areas.
See you on the beach!
Thank you for using the Fashion Industry Network. Have you helped another member today? Answer questions in the forum. It brings good luck.