How to Find the Right Swimsuit for Your Body, Style, and Confidence

Shopping for a swimsuit often comes with dread, especially for women in midlife who may be facing body changes, confidence struggles, or simply haven’t found the right swimsuit yet. But here’s the good news: you can look and feel amazing in a swimsuit — you just need the right strategy.

In this guide, you’ll learn flattering swimsuit tips, how to shop smart for the best selection, and how to choose a suit that fits both your body and your personal style.

Why Now is the Best Time to Shop for a Swimsuit

Before we dive into styles and fit, here’s an insider tip: now is the time to shop for swimwear. Shopping early gives you the best selection of sizes, styles, and colors. If you wait until late spring or summer, you’ll often find picked-over racks and limited choices.

Plus, you'll have time to try on, make returns, or even have minor alterations done without feeling rushed.

Step 1: Choose a Swimsuit in Your Best Colors

Color is your superpower! Many women forget that a swimsuit is just another garment — and deserves the same color consideration as your everyday clothes.

By using the Your Color Style system, you can select a swimsuit color that enhances your skin tone, makes your eyes pop, and gives you a radiant glow. Think "Signature Color". Whether your best colors are jewel tones, soft neutrals, or bright, playful hues, you’ll notice the difference instantly.

Pro tip: Don't know your best colors? A Signature Color Analysis will pinpoint your ideal colors so you shop with confidence. You'll not only learn what color of swimwear to purchase, you'll know which shoes and accessories to choose to complete the look. 

Step 2: Shop at Stores That Fit Your Style, Size, and Season of Life

One of the biggest frustrations is shopping in the wrong stores. Many mainstream brands cater to younger women, leaving midlife women feeling like nothing fits or flatters.

Instead, look for:

• Brands that specialize in swimsuits for midlife women

• Retailers offering inclusive sizing

• Styles that feel modern, polished, and age-appropriate without sacrificing personality

Choose stores that design for women like you, with swimwear that honors your style, supports your body, and fits your current season of life. A great swimsuit is worth the investment.

Step 3: Flattering Swimsuit Tips for Your Body Shape

Understanding your body shape helps you select styles that highlight your best assets. This is not about hiding but about enhancing what you love most about your figure.

Quick Guide:

• Pear Shape: Look for details up top (prints, ruffles, or embellishments) to balance proportions.

• Apple Shape: Opt for ruching, tummy control, and v-necklines to elongate the silhouette.

• Rectangle Shape: Add shape with color blocking, belts, or sweetheart necklines.

• Hourglass Shape: Emphasize your waist with fitted styles and wrap details.

Step 4: Find a Swimsuit Style That Matches Your Lifestyle

Your swimsuit should serve you, not just look good on a hanger. Choose styles based on how you’ll actually use them:

• One-piece swimsuits: Great for sleek, streamlined support.

• Tankinis: Versatile and perfect for easy bathroom breaks or mixing and matching.

• Bikinis: Yes, you can wear one! High-waisted bottoms or retro styles are flattering and trendy.

• Swim dresses: Feminine and flirty with a little extra coverage.

And don’t shy away from prints. If they are within your color palette, they can cleverly enhance your figure and express your personal style.

Step 5: Fit is Everything — Don't Skip This Step

Fit can make or break a swimsuit. Prioritize:

• Supportive and comfortable straps

• Smooth seams with no pinching or puckering

• Bust support that fits and flatters

• Bottoms that stay put when you move

If you are larger in the bust, look for swimsuits with a built-in bra or underwire for proper support. Styles with a back strap or adjustable band will help you achieve a secure and comfortable fit, preventing unwanted shifting when you move or swim. Avoid relying on thin spaghetti straps alone — you’ll be much happier with a design that offers structured support.

Many brands now offer cup-sized swimwear, D+ collections, and specialty designs for fuller busts — don’t settle for less!

If you find a suit you love that’s just a smidge off, don’t hesitate to have it tailored. A minor adjustment can make a major difference.

Step 6: Pay Attention to the Details — Even the Hardware

Details matter, especially in swimsuits. Look closely at zippers, buckles, rings, or other metal accents.

Make sure the hardware aligns with your color palette:

• Cool undertones: Opt for silver, pewter, or gunmetal.

• Warm undertones: Choose gold, copper, or bronze.

• Soft chroma: Look for brushed or matte finishes.

Coordinating these small details helps your swimsuit feel more intentional and polished — and harmonizes beautifully with your jewelry and cover-ups.

Step 7: Finish the Look with Confidence

Complete your swim look with:

• A flattering cover-up (in your color palette)

• Stylish sandals

• Sunglasses

• A wide-brimmed hat

• A SPF skin tint and Lipstick or gloss in one of your best makeup shades (with SPF)

Your swimsuit isn’t just about function — it’s about feeling put together, even at the pool.

Your Best Swimsuit is Out There — And It’s Waiting for You

This is your season — your body, your style, your colors. With these flattering swimsuit tips and a little intentional shopping, you’ll walk into summer feeling radiant and confident.

So, shop early, shop smart, and most importantly — shop for the you you are today.

Gail Scott

Gail Scott is Creative Director for Style and Beauty. She is a makeup expert and personal stylist. If you would like professional advice with Gail, please sign up for her exclusive 2-hour 1:1 session. Or schedule a 15 minute Style Chat with Gail to ask your questions.