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Choosing a Bathing Suit for Your Body Type

with Jazmin Whitley

Whether you're apple- or pear-shaped, thick or thin on top or bottom, there's a swimwear style that suits you best. See how to find the perfect bathing suit for your body type.

Transcript: Choosing a Bathing Suit for Your Body Type

Hi I'm Jazmin Whitley, designer of the Li Cari label, here for About.com, and I'm going to help you find the perfect swim suit to flatter your figure.

Bathing Suits for Apple Shapes

Apple shaped body frames have broader shoulders and smaller hips. You can try a two-piece bikini or "tankini" with a solid-colored top and a patterned-bottom for a more balanced appearance.

Bathing Suits for Pear-Shaped Bodies

Pear shaped body types have larger hips and smaller shoulders with a waist that is larger than the shoulders. One-piece bathing suits with a design that creates an illusion of a waistline will be most flattering.

Swimsuits for Athletic Body Types

Slender, athletic body types have shoulders, waist and hips that are similar in width. You can try a one-piece or a two-piece that has detailing at the waist to give you a more hourglass figure.

Bathing Suits That Enhance Small Busts

To enhance a smaller bust, try a halter bikini that has a seam just under the bust line, or a slightly padded top. Swim wear with texture can also help detract attention away from your bust line if you feel self-conscious.

Swimwear for Hourglass Shapes

An hourglass figure has balanced shoulders and hips with a smaller waist. If this is you, you're lucky because just about any classic bathing suit style should flatter your figure.

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