A Guide to Choosing Plus-Size Swimwear to Flatter Anyone

For lots of women, the idea of swimsuit shopping for the summer season is enough to get them through the cold winter months. Searching for a plus size bathing suit that is comfortable and flattering is an exciting adventure, and nothing beats that first ray of sunshine on your skin.

Since every woman's body type is different, it's important to find the one that makes you glow from the inside out. All you need is a little guidance to narrow down the endless options, so we've come up with a few helpful tips so you can be confident that you find the best one for you.

Decide on the Fit and Type of Swimsuit

First, figure out what fit you feel most confident and comfortable in. A bikini? A one-piece? A plus size tankini? Before deciding on the color or design of the swimsuit itself, think about the type of swimwear you want that you believe will look best on your body. If you're not sure, try on the styles that catch your eye from the start. Bring a girlfriend along and pick out new bathing suits together. Set aside a few hours on a Saturday afternoon to go bathing suit shopping and to give you plenty of time to try on a variety of swimsuits before committing to one style.

Pick a Color

Once you've landed on a swimsuit style you love, it's time to think about the overall look of the swimwear. You want to decide on a color or colors that complement you and will offer a flattering look from top to bottom. If you want some visual variety, go for a multicolored swimsuit that will accentuate your figure. If you prefer solid colors but still want to switch it up, choose a top and bottom in different colors. Stand out in a sea of black bathing suits with bright colors that match the sun's radiance. For a more traditional look, stick to wearing darker colors and streamlined designs.

Use Prints to Your Advantage

Consider adding a few swimwear pieces that come in various prints and patterns. If that's the case, there are things you can do to use prints and different swimsuit features to your full advantage. A bathing suit with the gathering of material on the sides will highlight your body's natural curve and flatter your form. This goes double for one-piece swimsuits with the tummy control swimwear feature. These swimsuits complement your shape and create a long, lean line. Another little trick you can use to make the torso appear longer is choosing a swimsuit that has patterns or other designs etched on the middle portion of the swimsuit.

Add Some Swimwear Accessories

Other ways to make your swimsuit look even more flattering is by dressing it up with an accessory like a sarong. Plus size cover ups and wraps can add an elongated and elegant air to your sunny day style. A wrap is just as functional as it is fashionable, and can be used in many different ways: as a skirt, as a scarf, or as a dress. An alternative to the cover up is a swim dress; just something you can throw on over your swimsuit whenever you're not swimming or you want to wear something you just feel more comfortable in.

Shop for Your Body Type

For women with who want to create the appearance of a larger bust, shop for swimsuits that have ruffled tops. Women with larger chests will find that any swimsuit style designed with thicker straps will be most comfortable. A swimsuit top with thick straps will offer the support you need and keep you feeling confident all day long. If you feel you have a more compact body type and want to highlight your curves, go for brightly colored swimsuits with lots of designs and patterns. Finally, if you are looking to accentuate your legs, a swimsuit that comes with high-waist bottoms will certainly do the trick!

Since there is no other body on Earth that is exactly like yours, it can feel like swimsuit options are endless at times. There's no such thing as one-size-fits-all, which is why knowing your body and your preferences before you go on the hunt for a swimsuit can help you successfully scoop up the perfect fit for you.