Best swimwear for hourglass body shapes
Women with hourglass body shapes have natural curves that many swimsuits enhance. Women with this classic body shape have a lot of flattering swimsuit options to choose from. Let's explore swimsuit styles that highlight your balanced proportions and make you look fantastic.
Quick links:
What is the hourglass body type?
How to choose the right swimsuit for an hourglass body
Swimsuit types to avoid for hourglass bodies
In SwimZip’s sun-protective swimwear collection, you will find stylish designs for your hourglass-shaped body (and other body types too). You will look amazing and be protected from the sun since our entire collection is made of UPF 50+ sun-protective fabric.
One-piece swimsuits
One-piece swimsuits emphasize your natural assets. Opt for styles with a sweetheart neckline to flatter your fuller bust. Side-cut monokinis draw attention to your slim waist, highlighting your curves.
High-cut legs elongate your frame, while belted options define your waist. Swimsuits with ruffles, ruching, or vivid patterns further accentuate your natural curves.
Swim tops
To highlight your balanced curvy and well-balanced figure, pick swim tops that accent your assets. Hourglass figure is the perfect bikini body, so any bikini type you choose will look amazing on you.
For maximum curve enhancement choose any of these options:
- V-necks highlight your bust and slim waist.
- Halter bikini tops support larger breasts with elegance.
- Crop tops showcase your defined midsection.
- String bikinis accentuate your hourglass shape.
- Triangle tops flatter your natural curves.
- Brazilian bikinis emphasize your feminine silhouette.
Whether you choose a classic breast-enhancing triangle bikini top or any two-piece bikini style, your gorgeous curves will shine in these flattering cuts.
Swim bottoms
For swim bottoms, focus on styles that accentuate your feminine curves. High-waisted bikini bottoms define your midsection and elongate your legs. Classic bikini cuts balance your proportions, while side-tie bottoms give you the chance to customize your coverage.
Choose a style with ruching on the sides to highlight your fabulous curves and create a flattering silhouette.
For a stunning style that complements your perfect body shape, check out other options that align with your style. Simple bottoms in solid colors can be a great choice, while patterned options add visual interest.
With these flattering choices, you can mix and match tops and bottoms for different looks. If you prefer additional coverage, opt for boyshorts or swim skirts that still showcase your curves while providing more modesty.
What is the hourglass body type?
The hourglass figure is often considered the epitome of feminine beauty. This body type features a well-defined waistline with balanced bust and hip proportions.
Women with an hourglass shape typically have:
- A fuller bust that's proportionate to their hips
- A narrower waist that creates a distinct curve between the upper and lower body
- Hips that align closely with shoulder width
- Natural curves that flow smoothly from shoulders to hips
This creates the iconic "figure eight" shape that many find aesthetically pleasing.
While hourglass-shaped women often have an easier time finding flattering clothes, they can further accentuate their curvy figure and create a stunning beach look with the right swimwear.
Swimwear colors and patterns for hourglass bodies
Hourglass figures look amazing in most types of swimwear, but you can take your look to the next level with the right colors and patterns.
Bright and bold colors
Vibrant hues draw eyes to your best features. Pick swimsuits in red, coral, electric blue, or sunshine yellow to create the illusion of curves where you want them. For a striking look of your beach body, try a bright top with navy high-waist bottoms to focus attention upward.
Matching swimwear
Coordinated sets showcase your balanced proportions. A matching bikini top and bottom in one color or pattern (such as our Ocean Breeze collection) results in a sleek, cohesive look. This approach highlights your hourglass silhouette without overwhelming it.
Mismatched patterns
Different shapes are a perfect combination for visual interest. Pair a patterned top with solid bottoms or vice versa. This breaks up your silhouette while emphasizing your narrow waist. A Tropadelic bikini top with plain high-waisted bottoms can perfectly accentuate your curves.
Retro styles
Vintage-inspired swimwear flatters the hourglass, flattering shape beautifully. High-waisted bottoms and sweetheart neckline styles echo 1950s fashion when the hourglass figure was celebrated.
Choose Tropics high-waist bikini bottom with a bow and pair it with a matching V-neck top for a flattering retro look that shows off your curves.
Vertical stripes
Swimsuits with vertical stripes elongate your figure and highlight your curves. Thin stripes running from top to bottom create a slimming effect. Whether you choose one-piece suits or bikini sets your natural shape will be eye-catching.
How to choose the right swimsuit for an hourglass body
The perfect swimsuit for an hourglass body should emphasize natural curves and balanced proportions. Follow these tips to find the best swimsuit for your hourglass figure:
- Highlight your waist: Choose swimsuits that showcase your narrow midsection. High-waisted bottoms, belted one-pieces, or styles with ruching draw attention to the waist.
- Support your bust: Look for tops with underwire, molded cups, or halter tops to provide ample support for your chest. V-necklines and sweetheart cuts flatter your décolletage while maintaining a balanced look.
- Balance your hips: Opt for bottoms that sit at your natural waistline to show off your curves. High-cut legs elongate your feminine figure, while full-coverage options provide a classic look that keeps your proportions in balance.
- Embrace your curves: One-piece swimsuits with strategic cutouts or wrap styles accentuate your hourglass shape. For bikinis, matching sets create a cohesive look that highlights your balanced figure.
- Play with patterns: Vertical stripes elongate your silhouette, while bold prints draw attention to your best features. Strategic color-blocking further emphasizes your curves.
Swimsuit types to avoid for hourglass bodies
Hourglass figures can pull off most swimsuits, but women with this body type do want to steer clear of:
- Imbalance: Swimsuits that overemphasize one part of your body can throw off your natural proportions. For example, an overly padded top with minimal bottom coverage makes your upper body look bigger.
- Uneven detailing: Designs with embellishments concentrated on one area can create visual imbalance. A top with heavy beading paired with plain bottoms might draw too much attention upward, neglecting your lower half.
- Ruffles around the waist: While ruffles can be flattering, those placed at the waist can hide your natural curves. This extra fabric might add bulk to your midsection and obscure your defined waistline.
Why choose SwimZip’s sun-protective swimwear
In SwimZip’s swimwear collection, you will find designs and styles for every body type. Whether you rock your rectangle, hourglass, or pear-shaped body, you’ll look awesome in our swimsuits.
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 proud of:
Swimwear FAQ
Is an hourglass figure attractive?
The hourglass figure is often considered a classic feminine body shape. Its balanced proportions between the bust, waist, and hips create a beautiful shape that many find appealing.
Will swimming make my waist smaller?
Swimming tones your entire body, including your core. While it burns calories and builds muscle, spot reduction isn't possible. A smaller waist results from overall fat loss, which swimming can contribute to as part of a balanced fitness routine.
Can hourglass figures wear athletic swimwear?
Athletic styles, such as our one-piece suits, are an excellent choice for hourglass figures. Look for racerback tops that offer support and flattering swimsuit bottoms with a higher cut. These designs balance functionality with style, perfect for active beach days.
Are bandeau designs good for hourglass shapes?
Bandeau-style swimsuits can work for hourglass figures, especially those with smaller busts. Look for ones with removable straps for versatility. Pair with high-waisted bottoms to maintain your curvy silhouette.
How can I create visual balance in my swimwear?
To create visual balance in swimwear, focus on proportions. If you choose a bold top, balance it with simpler bottoms, or vice versa. This approach maintains harmony in your outfit while still showcasing your natural body shape.
What are some sophisticated bikini options for hourglass figures?
Look for classic swimsuit styles with a modern twist. A high-neck top paired with high-waisted bottoms offers elegance. Or try a wrap-front top with matching bottoms for a chic, put-together look.
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?
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