Making Waves

Written by Heather Green
Photography by Jonathan Fredin

Swimsuit shopping is right up there with searching for the perfect bra. But alas, times have changed, and it's easier than ever to find the perfect swimsuit. So embrace your physique and find the suit that suits your body type with our helpful guide.

All swimsuits and accessories can be found at Everything But Water at The Streets at Southpoint.

The Seven Body Types

• Strawberry: Broad shoulders, large bust, narrow hips and a small derriere
Swimsuit Solution
• Look for hidden support from underwire and high Lycra suits.
• V-necks or shaped scooped tops soften the neck and torso.
• Wider straps (set closer together) visually break shoulder width.

• Ruler: Small bust, narrow hips, long legs, slim figure, average to tall height
Swimsuit Solution
• To give yourself a little boost in the bust, try a padded bikini.
• Halter tops can create cleavage even when you have none.
• Hipster bikinis or plunging necklines visually create a waist.

• Hourglass: Broad shoulders, large bust, tiny waist and wide hips
Swimsuit Solution
• Smaller print is a great way to keep the eye busy and take the attention away from trouble areas.
• Ample coverage in the bust and derriere (rouching up top or at the tummy to appear smaller and wraps for derriere coverage) are musts.
• Look for waist detail: belts, suit accessories, etc.

• Teardrop/Pear: Narrow shoulders, smaller bust and wide hips
Swimsuit Solution
• Underwires and molded bras add emphasis to the bust line.
• Dark colored bottoms, patterns and bright colors on top.
• Empire, sweetheart and other dramatic necklines enhance the bust.

• Petite/Boyish: Small bust, waist not defined and short or average height
Swimsuit Solution
• Consider one-piece suits that have thin vertical stripes.
• Create curves with a belted waistline, which will give the appearance of a whittled middle.
• Avoid dark-colored, tank-style swimsuits that draw attention away from your body shape.

• Apple: Larger midsection; sometimes larger bust area
Swimsuit Solution
• Empire waists are the most flattering.
• Ruching or gathering in the midsection helps hide flaws.
• Draw attention to the bust with a V-neck top or eye catching details in the chest area.

• Pregnant
Swimsuit Solution
• The single-piece swimsuit, with low leg cuts and front pouch bellies, is a maternity classic.
• A skirtini (skirted bikini) is comfortable maternity swimwear and flatters the figure.
• For comfortable support, select a strap style, racer back or halter-top. A suit with a dark-colored top and a light-colored bottom will further de-emphasize the bust.

Look for more fashionable swimsuits in the July/August issue of Cary Magazine.

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