3 Tricks to Pick Your Perfect Plus Size Swimsuit

Dum, da, dum, dum. The temperature is heating up. And, yes, it’s that time of year again when we will be showing more of our bodies than normal. Of course, I’m talking about bathing suit season!

But, breathe! If you utilize these 3 simple tricks when shopping for this year’s swimsuit, you’ll not only feel more confident from the moment you step on the beach, you’ll be able to focus more on building sand castles with the kids and grandkids than if your tummy looks larger than you want. You know, the important things 🙂

Remember, if you’re feeling self-conscious about what you perceive to be your flaws, just remember that every single person on that beach is feeling the exact same way, even the ones with what some consider to be “perfect” bodies. You are not alone! These 3 tricks offer swimsuit suggestions to flatter every plus size body from a large chest to a large bottom.

Take Your Measurements

Before you start shopping, ask a friend to take your measurements (it’s more accurate that way), especially if you’re planning to order a suit online. Be sure the measuring tape is held straight and snug (not too tight or loose).

Here’s a brief guide on how to measure yourself accurately:

1. If You Have a… Large Middle

Then try…

Ruffles/ruching: A gathered overlay of fabric strips that are pleated, fluted, or joined together to create a ripple-like effect. This design can disguise a larger waistline, especially angled ruffles because they pull the eye down and away from the midriff.
Shirring: A decorative gathering created by pulling up the material along two or more parallel lines of stitching. This style has a slimming effect through your middle and can be found in both side shirrings or vertical front shirrings, both of which create an hourglass effect.
Tummy Control: Some brands have a built-in mesh paneling that slims out your midsection, almost like shapewear.
Empire Waist: Also known as a babydoll top, this style has a fitted top with a waistline placed just above the natural waist or right below the bust, flaring out into a skirted section that loosely flows over the body.

Cultured Curves Style Faves:

Tie Front Cup Sized Underwire One Piece Swimsuit from Swimsuits For All. Click HERE to buy.

The Perfect Wrap One-Piece from Summersalt. Click HERE to buy.

2. If You Have A… Large Bottom

Then try…

Swim Dress: This suit has a skirted bottom, usually with an attached brief, to minimize your lower waist.
High Waist Bottoms: Available in swim skirts, bikini bottoms, and shorts, the higher waistline draws attention away from the lower half of your body for a curvy, more balanced look.
Off the Shoulder or Ruffle Top: Whether you choose a 1 or 2-piece, this kind of top adds volume to a smaller chest and balances out the lower half of your body.
Unitard: A one-piece swimsuit that ends above the knee and usually provides full coverage. Especially good for women with thicker thighs, unitards elongate the body and make the hips and thighs appear smaller.

Cultured Curves Style Faves:

Halter Back Print Swim Dress from Avenue. Click HERE to buy.

Ruffle Shoulder One Piece With Belt from Eloquii. Click HERE to buy.

3. If You Have A… Large Top

Then try…

Bra-sized Swimwear: Many brands have taken the guesswork out of swimwear sizing by following the same guidelines as bras to ensure better support.
High Neckline: This style balance a top-heavy frame, especially those with angular armholes, which minimize the shoulder and chest and call attention to the hip.
Sweetheart Neckline: Also referred to as a twist front neckline, these shapes are twisted or gathered at the front, creating a heart shape at the chest, minimizing and flattering a full chest. The straps (often removable) lean inward to draw even more attention away from the chest and shoulders.
Tankinis: A two-piece swimsuit that features a tank-top instead of the bra-like top of a bikini that ends right below the breasts. These designes provide much more coverage than bikinis and offer the option of mixing and matching tops and bottoms.

Cultured Curves Style Faves: