http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0074hh3
If bikini shopping fills you with fear, and a Nigella Lawson-style Burquini, seems like the only option this Summer.... don't despair! As promised, I have some great figure-flattering swimwear suggestions...
Best For Top-Heavy Girls-
If you have a big bust, you'll need a supportive top in a flattering style. Bra-sized, underwired tops are the way to go. Strong patterns help to blend the extra coverage into the style of the suit.
Halterneck styles give good uplift.
If you can't find a bra-sized bikini you like, go for a tie-back one, that you can adjust to fit perfectly.
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| Grey feather print bikini, £24 @ www.newlook.co.uk |
Purple undwired bikini, £43 by Freya @ www.houseoffraser.co.uk
Polka dot halter bikini top, £25 and briefs, £18 @ www.johnlewis.co.uk
Best For Pear Shapes -
Don't try to cover your hips with big pants and boy shorts. Legs will look longer and leaner if you choose high-waisted, tie-side styles. They won't dig-in to your waist, and will give you a more streamlined shape.
Balance your figure with padded bikini tops, or frill, bow or ruffle details, to add shape to your bustline.
A darker coloured bottom, with a patterned or lighter coloured top, can help to make your hips appear smaller..
Purple ruffle bikini, £19 @ www.dorothyperkins.co.uk
Stripe bandeau bikini with bow detail, £20 @ www.newlook.co.uk
Padded patterned bikini top, £34, and briefs, £22 by Episode @ www.houseoffraser.co.uk
Red asymmetric swimsuit, £14.99 @ www.hm.com
Best For Boyish Figures -
If you have a lean, boyish figure, with an undefined waist, you'll want to create a waistline, to give you a more feminine outline.
One-piece suits with contrasting waistbands, or cut-out details around the waist, are the simplest way to create an hourglass shape.
Cut-out swimsuit, £14.99 @ www.hm.com
Tankini top, £7 and high leg briefs, £5 @ www.peacocks.co.uk
Spot swimsuit, £39 @ www.simplyyours.co.uk
Best for Tums..
If you're tummy is your problem area, then a swimsuit with control panels will be ideal for you. Thankfully, retro swimwear is back in fashion.. and one-pieces are hot this summer!
Ruching around the waist area can help to soften any lumps and bumps.
Ruched swimsuit, £32 @ www.wallis.co.uk
Tummy control swimsuit, £28 @ www.kaleidoscope.co.uk
Light blue soft wasit bikini, £46 @ www.simplyyours.co.uk
Best for Plus Size -
If you're plus-size or very curvaceous, you'll want to lenghten your body, and show-off some cleavage with a deep V-neck swimsuit, or tankini styles. This will help to lengthen your body. For extra coverage, swimskirts or dresses can be a good option...
Turquoise V-neck suit, £40 @ www.monsoon.co.uk
Firm control Miraclesuit, £130 @ www.evans.co.uk
Berry swim dress, £32 @ www.evans.co.uk
