What are the best bathing suits for short torsos?

Short torsos can be tricky to dress, especially in swimwear. The right bathing suit can elongate your figure, boost your confidence, and provide sun protection. 

We'll help you choose a swimsuit style that works with your body and makes you look and feel great at the beach or pool.

Quick links:

How to tell if you have a short torso?

Types of swimwear to choose for short torso

Types of swimwear to avoid for short torso

Swimsuit features to look for

SwimZip's sun-protective swimwear collection offers stylish designs with patterns and ruched details that flatter the midsection while providing UPF 50+ protection against harmful UV rays.

How to tell if you have a short torso?

Not sure if you have a below-average length torso? Here's a quick way to find out:

1. Stand in front of a mirror wearing fitted clothing.
2. Place your hands on your hip bones.
3. Measure the space between your hands and the bottom of your rib cage.

If there are less than four inches between your rib cage and hip bones, you likely have a shorter torso. This compact midsection can make finding the perfect swimsuit a bit tricky, but don't worry—there are plenty of stylish swimsuits for your body type.

Types of swimwear for short torsos

If you’ve got a short torso, shop swimwear styles that create the illusion of a longer midsection. Look for designs that draw the eye vertically, elongate your figure, and balance your proportions. 

Here are our top swimsuit choices for short torsos:

1. One-shoulder tops
2. Front tie bikini tops
3. One-piece swimsuits
4. High-cut bikini bottoms

Asymmetrical or one-shoulder tops

One-shoulder tops create an asymmetrical line that breaks up the horizontal plane of your torso to make it appear longer. The diagonal strap draws the eye upward and across your body, adding visual interest and elongating your midsection. This style also highlights your shoulders and collarbones to enhance further the lengthening effect for those with short torsos.

Check out our Hawaiian Rainforest one-shoulder top. It works wonderfully with high-waisted bottoms in the same design to make your short torso look longer and flattering.

Front-tie bikini tops

Front-tie bikini tops reveal more skin between your shoulders and waistline, which visually extends your torso. This style also draws attention to your collarbone and shoulders, creating an upward focus that complements a short torso.

You should try our Floral Garden front-tie top. Its floral pattern and adjustable front tie work together to visually lengthen your torso.

One-piece swimsuits

One-piece swimsuits are a fantastic option for those with short torsos because the uninterrupted fabric creates a sleek line from shoulders to hips, visually elongating your silhouette. Vertical seams and patterns can further emphasize this lengthening effect, while plunging necklines and low-cut backs reveal more skin, creating the illusion of a longer torso.

Our patterned one-piece swimsuits will make your torso look longer and increase your confidence at the beach or pool.

High-cut bikini bottoms

High-cut bottoms elongate your legs, which balances out a short torso by creating a longer lower body line. Look for bottoms that angle upward toward your hips for maximum effect. This style flatters your figure and adds a touch of retro charm to your beach look.

Our side tie bikini bottoms are a great choice, as they can be adjusted for a higher cut to complement a short torso.

Types of swimwear to avoid for short torsos

Some swimwear can visually shorten your midsection even further. Here are some styles that may not complement a short torso:

• Tankinis: Tankinis often hit the widest part of your midsection and create a horizontal line that makes your torso appear shorter. The separation between the top and bottom can also visually divide your body to emphasize a shorter torso.
• Longline bikini tops: These extended bikini tops cover more of your torso, leaving less skin visible between your chest and hips. This reduction in visible skin can make your midsection appear even shorter.
• High waist bottoms: While trendy, high waist bottoms can overwhelm a short torso. They sit higher on the waist and reduce the visible length of your midsection, creating imbalance.
• High neck swimsuits: High neck styles, including turtlenecks and mock necks, can make your torso appear shorter by reducing the visible length of your neck and upper chest area. This effect can be particularly pronounced for those with short torsos.

What to look for in a swimsuit for a short torso

When shopping for swimsuits to flatter a short torso, these features can create the appearance of a longer midsection:

• Vertical patterns: Stripes, elongated florals, or animal prints with a vertical orientation draw the eye up and down so your torso will look longer.
• Plunging necklines: Deep V-necks or low scoop necks create a longer line from your neck to your waist for a visually elongated torso.
• High-cut leg openings: Swimsuit bottoms that sit higher on the hips lengthen your legs and balance out a shorter torso.
• Adjustable straps: You can customize the fit of your swimsuit top with adjustable straps to find the right amount of coverage and support for your body.
• Monochromatic designs: Solid-colored swimsuits or those with subtle tone-on-tone patterns create an unbroken line that makes your torso appear longer.
• Strategic cut-outs: Well-placed cut-outs on the sides or midriff of a one-piece swimsuit can break up the torso and create the illusion of more length.
• Low-back designs: Swimsuits with lower back cuts show more skin and add to the lengthening effect for your torso.

Why choose SwimZip’s sun-protective swimwear

SwimZip offers one and two-piece swimsuit styles to suit all preferences. Our designs blend fashion with functionality to give you comfort and support during your beach or pool days. 

With SwimZip's high-quality swimsuits, you can enjoy your water activities with confidence and protection. You'll look and feel great in our UV-protective swimwear.

Here are some collections we are super proud of:

• Swimwear accessories
• Women’s rash guards
• Women’s swim tops
• Women’s sun hats

Swimwear FAQ

How can I make my short torso look better?

To make your short torso look better, choose a swimsuit with patterns or vertical stripes. V-necks and plunging backs. Opt for high-cut leg openings to balance your proportions. A one-shoulder bikini top adds asymmetry, which stretches your torso visually. Avoid horizontal stripes or high-waisted bottoms that shorten your midsection.

Do high-waist bikini bottoms look good on everyone?

High-waist bikini bottoms don't flatter all body types. For short torsos, they make the midsection appear even shorter. Low-rise or higher-cut bottom styles typically work better for those with short torsos, as they create the illusion of a longer midsection.

What accessories can I wear to make my short torso look longer?

If you want to make your short torso look longer, try these accessory hacks:

• Long pendant necklaces that fall past your chest
• Oversized sunglasses to create contrast with your midsection
• A wide-brimmed sun hat for added height and balance
• A lightweight sarong tied low on your hips
• Large, dangling earrings to draw the eye vertically
• A thin, long scarf draped around your neck
• A beach bag worn crossbody-style to create diagonal lines

How do you wear a swimsuit if you are short?

If you're short, choose swimsuits that elongate your figure. Opt for high-cut bathing suits with leg openings that angle upward. Vertical patterns or seams create a taller appearance. Avoid boy shorts or skirtini styles that can make you look shorter. Instead, choose streamlined designs that follow your body's natural lines.

Does swimsuit color matter when you want to look thinner in your swimsuit?

Swimsuit color alters the perception of your figure. Dark colors, such as black, navy, and deep purple, create a slimming effect. Solid-color swimsuits in dark tones are particularly effective for a sleeker silhouette. 

If you prefer brighter hues, opt for swimsuits with patterns that incorporate vertical lines or small, scattered designs. Vibrant patterns can also distract the eye and create a more flattering look.

What's the best swimsuit style for a petite figure with a short torso?

Petite figures with short torsos benefit from high-cut bathing suits. These elongate your legs and balance your proportions. Look for bikini sets with low-rise bottoms and tops with cute necklines, such as V-necks or sweetheart shapes. A one-piece with a keyhole detail also creates the illusion of length. 

How can I build a versatile swimwear wardrobe for summer?

To create a summer wardrobe with versatile swimsuit options, start with a solid-color swimsuit as your base. Then, add a few bikini sets in different styles, such as halter tops or bandeau tops. Include a perfect one-piece for more coverage. Mix in some bathing suit bottoms in various cuts, and don't forget a stylish swim skirt for extra versatility. This range of swimsuits will give you plenty of mix-and-match options.

What swimsuit features provide both style and comfort?

For the ultimate combo of style and comfort, look for swimsuits with wide straps for support and cute tie details for adjustability and style. High-neck suit styles offer both coverage and a trendy look. Some one-piece suits come with built-in shapewear for a smooth silhouette. The most comfortable swimsuit is one that fits your natural figure well.

How can I make a bold statement with my swimwear?

To make a splash, try swimsuits with all-over prints in vibrant colors. Look for unique details such as keyhole cutouts or high-cut leg lines for maximum impact. A one-piece with a flattering neckline and eye-catching pattern can become your new favorite swimsuit. For a trendy look, explore options for swimwear with asymmetrical designs or unexpected textures.

Further reading

What are the best bathing suits for larger busts?

How to pack a girl’s beach bag

What are the best swimsuits for moms?

What are the best swimwear for small busts?

What are the best tummy control swimsuits?