Summertime is the perfect time to break out your swimwear and hit the beach or pool. But not sure what style of swimsuit will look best on your body shape? Don't worry. We've got you covered!

Let's chat about the different types of swimwear available and which styles will flatter your figure. So whether you have a pear-shaped body or an hourglass figure, we've got the perfect swimsuit for you! So, how does one know what their body type is?

How to determine body shape and type?

There are three main body types: The Pear, The Hourglass, and The Athletic.

The Pear has a narrow waist and wide hips and shoulders, 

The Hourglass has balanced proportions with a well-defined waist and curvy hips and bust. The Athletic is not as curvy as the other two types - it typically has broad shoulders with a straight silhouette.

 Once you have determined your body type, it's time to start shopping for the perfect swimsuit!

Best Swimwear for different body types

Here are the best swimwears recommendations according to the different body types:

Best Swimwear for the pear shape body type

If you have a pear-shaped body, you might want to choose a swimsuit that emphasizes your waistline. Strapless bandeau tops are the perfect bikini top for a pear shape body type ensuring that it is padded or is a push-up bikini top will emphasize and add volume up top. 

When it comes to picking the best bikini bottom for your pear shape body type a high waisted bikini bottom is great for coverage and curves. The high waisted bikini bottom will help emphasize your curves, flatter your waistline & elongate your legs and thighs. 

Best Swimwear for the hourglass body type

If you have an hourglass figure, you will want to show off your curves in a classic yet supportive and sophisticated two-piece bikini. The classic bikini is perfect as it brings visual balance to your hips and shoulders while drawing attention to your waistline. The triangle bikini top is flattering and feminine and one of the best bikini top styles for the hourglass body type. Our contemporary Wild triangle bikini top will be the perfect addition to your summer swimsuit wardrobe. 

When picking a bikini bottom for your hourglass body type, your best bet is a bikini bottom that offers coverage. These styles of bikini bottoms give more coverage to your hips and bottom but will leave just enough skin to let your curvey waistline stand centre stage. Shop our Wild mid-rise bikini bottoms that offer modest coverage. 

If a two-piece bikini isn't your thing, don't worry, the hourglass body type is also perfect for a one-piece swimsuit. When picking out your one-piece make sure you look for a plunging neckline. It does show off a little cleavage but will help accentuate your beautiful female figure. Both of our Elka Swim one-piece swimsuits have a sophisticated plunging neckline. The Harlem one-piece is doubled-lined for added tummy control and our Gypsy one-piece is adjustable at the front and back giving you complete control over your coverage.

Best Swimwear for the athletic body type 

When picking the best swimwear for the athletic body type the aim of the game is to balance - you are looking to balance out your proportions by visually reducing the width of the shoulders, while enhancing the natural curves of your hips and butt. 

For women who have an athlete’s body shape, look for swimwear with thick straps, high cut bikini bottoms, plunging necklines and avoid strapless/bandeau bikini tops. 

Final Verdict!

When choosing swimwear, the key is to ensure it's both functional and flattering. It does not need to be extremely revealing or extremely modest – if you're comfortable in the swimwear, that's all that matters!

Want 15% OFF your first purchase at Elka Swim? Join The Confidence Club.

"I absolutely adore my Elka Swim bikini!! Felt super nervous to even buy swimwear after having my baby and together with Holly and her incredible customer service we’ve nailed the fit perfectly. Thank you for the boost in confidence, the comfort and luxury of this bikini set!"   Aleca Hendrix via Google Reviews 17 January 2022