Finding the perfect bikini can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless styles, cuts, and designs available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed standing in a changeroom surrounded by options that just don't seem right. The good news is that there's a perfect bikini out there for every body type—you just need to know what to look for.
The key to finding flattering swimwear isn't about hiding your body or conforming to unrealistic standards. It's about understanding which styles accentuate your natural shape and make you feel confident and comfortable. Whether you're lounging by the pool at a Gold Coast resort or catching waves at Bondi Beach, the right bikini can transform your beach experience.
The best bikini is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. These guidelines are starting points—ultimately, the perfect swimwear is whatever makes you excited to hit the beach.
Understanding Body Shapes
Before diving into specific recommendations, let's briefly discuss the common body shape categories. Remember, most people are a combination of types, and there's no "ideal" shape. These categories simply help us identify which swimwear features tend to be most flattering for different proportions.
The main body shape categories include pear (hips wider than shoulders), apple (weight carried around the midsection), hourglass (balanced bust and hips with defined waist), athletic (straight, muscular build), and inverted triangle (shoulders wider than hips). However, within each category exists enormous variation, so use these as general guidelines rather than strict rules.
Best Bikini Styles for Pear Shapes
If your hips are wider than your shoulders, the goal is to create visual balance by drawing attention upward while finding bottoms that fit comfortably around your hips and thighs.
Top Recommendations
- Halter necks: These draw the eye upward and add visual width to the shoulders
- Bandeau tops with embellishments: Ruffles, fringing, or bold patterns add volume to the bust area
- Push-up styles: Create the appearance of a larger bust to balance wider hips
- Off-shoulder tops: Elongate the neckline and emphasise the shoulder area
Bottom Recommendations
- High-waisted bottoms: Elongate the legs and create a flattering silhouette
- Skirted bottoms: Provide coverage while remaining stylish
- Dark, solid colours: Minimise attention on the hip area
- Side-tie bottoms: Allow adjustable fit and create a custom look
Best Bikini Styles for Apple Shapes
If you carry weight primarily around your midsection, focus on swimwear that draws attention to your legs and bust while providing comfortable support around the tummy area.
Quick Tip
Tankinis are an excellent option for apple shapes, offering the coverage of a one-piece with the convenience of a two-piece. Look for styles with ruching or draping around the midsection for extra flattering effect.
- V-neck tops: Elongate the torso and draw attention to the bust
- High-waisted bottoms: Provide tummy control and create a smooth silhouette
- Ruched details: Camouflage the midsection while adding visual interest
- Empire-line tankinis: Cinch under the bust and flow over the tummy
- Bold patterns on top: Draw the eye upward away from the midsection
Best Bikini Styles for Hourglass Shapes
With balanced proportions and a defined waist, hourglass figures can wear almost any style. The key is maintaining that natural balance and highlighting your curves.
- Classic triangle tops: Show off balanced proportions beautifully
- Wrap styles: Emphasise your natural waist
- High-waisted retro styles: Accentuate curves while providing coverage
- Underwire bikini tops: Provide support for larger busts while maintaining shape
- Brazilian-cut bottoms: Flatter your hip-to-waist ratio
If you're an hourglass with a larger bust, look for tops with underwire support or wide bands. This ensures comfort during active beach days without sacrificing style.
Best Bikini Styles for Athletic Shapes
Athletic body types typically have a straight silhouette with minimal waist definition and toned muscles. The goal is often to create curves and add feminine details.
- Ruffled or tiered tops: Add volume and create the illusion of curves
- Bandeau tops with embellishments: Add visual interest and volume
- Side-tie bottoms: Create the appearance of curvier hips
- Bright patterns and prints: Add dimension and visual interest
- Cutout details: Create the illusion of curves
- Colour-blocked designs: Add shape and dimension
Best Bikini Styles for Inverted Triangle Shapes
If your shoulders are broader than your hips, the goal is to balance your proportions by minimising the shoulder area and adding volume to your hips and bottom.
- Halter tops with thin straps: Make shoulders appear narrower
- Dark-coloured tops: Minimise the appearance of a broader bust and shoulders
- Bottoms with bold patterns or ruffles: Add visual weight to the hip area
- Side-tie or ruffle bottoms: Create the illusion of fuller hips
- High-cut leg openings: Elongate legs and balance proportions
Additional Tips for Finding Your Perfect Bikini
Consider Your Lifestyle
Your activities should influence your bikini choice. If you're a keen surfer or swimmer, opt for sporty styles with secure fits and quick-dry fabrics. For poolside lounging, you can choose more delicate designs with embellishments. Active beachgoers at spots like Margaret River need different swimwear than someone relaxing at a resort pool.
Don't Forget About Comfort
No matter how flattering a bikini looks, if it's uncomfortable, you won't enjoy wearing it. Ensure straps don't dig in, bottoms provide adequate coverage for your comfort level, and the fabric feels good against your skin. Take time in the changeroom to move around, sit down, and raise your arms to test the fit.
Quality Matters
Investing in quality swimwear pays off in the long run. Well-made bikinis maintain their shape and colour longer, especially important given Australia's harsh sun and saltwater conditions. Look for chlorine-resistant fabrics if you swim in pools regularly, and UPF-rated materials for added sun protection.
Sizing Reminder
Swimwear sizing varies significantly between brands. Always check the specific brand's size guide and consider sizing up if you're between sizes—you can always adjust straps and ties for a better fit.
The Bottom Line
While these guidelines provide helpful starting points, the most important rule is to choose swimwear that makes you feel confident and happy. Fashion "rules" are meant to be broken, and personal comfort should always take priority over arbitrary guidelines. Try on different styles, experiment with colours and patterns, and trust your instincts.
Remember that lighting in changerooms is often unflattering, and how you feel at the beach or pool—with sunshine, movement, and good company—will be entirely different. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Your perfect bikini might just surprise you.
Whether you're shopping for your first bikini or adding to an extensive collection, take your time, try multiple options, and most importantly, choose styles that celebrate your unique body. Every woman deserves to feel amazing in her swimwear, and with the right knowledge and confidence, you absolutely will.