From The Straits Times    |

Here at herworldPLUS, we are all about inspiring and empowering women to be the best version of themselves. What better way to do that than to dish out stylings tips to ensure that you always look on point? When you look good, you’ll definitely feel good!

In the next instalment of our body discovering series —we’ve covered the most flattering type of denim, best type of shorts, picking the correct type of bra— today we are going to conquer swimwear.

Regardless of your shape, size or height, swimwear shopping isn’t the most fun process to partake in. Firstly, you have to weed through the endless options. Then, you have to narrow them down to the one that has the most flattering cut; provides you the right amount of support; yet still looks sexy and feels comfortable. 

But don’t worry, we are going to put an end to all your fears and frustration that come with swimwear shopping! Read on to find out the best type of swimsuits that were made to fit and flatter your frame. You can find out your body shape here.


Mission spring summer 2016

1. Rectangle 
Your waist and hip measurements are very similar, which means that there is no significant difference in width between your hips, waist and bust. You don’t have to worry about balancing proportions! But if it’s curves you’re after, then you definitely need to zero in on options with lots of visually interesting details. 

What you need:
Swimsuits with loud details – think ruffles, gathering, embellishments, vibrant prints, padding and the like – will create the illusion of a more hourglass shape. Tops with a front tie can also help to make your bust look more voluptuous. High waisted, belted waistline swimsuits or tie-side bottoms are great for creating a defined waist, while string bikinis help to draw extra attention to your hips. 

What you should avoid: 
Avoid bandeau-style tops if you want to appear more curvy, as they will to emphasise your lack of upper-body curves. However, if you want to flaunt it then go ahead! Your smaller bust makes it possible for you to wear them because you can get away without the need for strong support for your chest. 


Missoni spring summer 2013

2. Inverted triangle
You are broader on your top half, quite possibly with wide shoulders and slim hips, and may have a larger chest that requires extra support. Usually, the goal is to slim down the shoulder line and to draw attention to your legs. 

What you need:
Halter-style tops should be your go-to because it offers ample support whilst creating a cleavage that many of you love. Look out for styles that can be tied at the back or around your neck so that you can adjust accordingly for a more personal fit. 

If you are concerned about the attention that you might get from your heavy bust and shoulders, opt for patterns instead of solids to break up your silhouette and prevent the eye from focusing on any one part of your body. This helps to distract the eye and as a result, your heavy bust and shoulders will seem less noticeable. For your bottoms, go for boy shorts that creates more curves. 

What you should avoid:
High necklines and bandeau tops as you will run the risk of a uniboob! Triangle tops should also be avoided as they provide very little support. You run a higher risk of a wardrobe malfunction. 


Michael Kors spring summer 2016

3. Triangle
Your weight tends to be carried on the lower half, normally around the hips and thighs. You should have a hip measurement that is larger than your bust measurement and a small-to-average sized waist. The key here is to make your bust look fuller and to draw the eye upwards, so that it balances out your hips and legs.

What you need:
Go for lighter coloured, printed tops with scalloped or V-necklines and contrast it with a solid, darker coloured bottom. This plays up your smaller area and downplays the weight of your bottom half. Also, find a bottom that that cuts higher and closer to your pelvis area so that you show more of your leg. This actually helps to elongate your legs.

Alternatively, you can try a tankini. The extra flap gives your torso a longer and fuller appearance, distracting the eyes from the heavier bottom. 

What you should avoid: 
Avoid prints, as a “busy” bottom will emphasise your hips and thighs, making them look wider and thicker. Steer clear of skimpy tops as it will divert all the attention to your bottom. 


Antonio Marras spring summer 2011

4. Hourglass
You can probably get away with most silhouettes, because you have a very defined waist with a proportionate bust and hips. 

What you need:
If you’re top heavy, look out for halter tops and underwire bras for maximum support. Dramatic designs like prints and ruffles can help you to enhance your curves. You can try horizontal stripes as they help to widen your shoulders and draw attention to your waist. 
However, if you would rather play down on your curvy figure, opt for dark colours or tiny prints i.e. small polka dots. They have a contouring effect that reduces the ‘volume’ of your figure. 

What you should avoid: 
Don’t mix and match. While your body type is considered to be the most ideal, wearing different colours on the top and bottom could make your body look disproportionate. Boy shorts may also make you look boxy and unbalanced on the bottom.