How to Find Your Swimsuit Size -

Finding your correct swimsuit size is crucial for comfort, confidence, and proper fit. Unlike regular clothing, swimwear must perform in water while staying in place during movement. An incorrect size leads to constant adjusting, unflattering fit, and compromised confidence. This comprehensive guide walks you through measuring yourself and understanding swimwear sizing.

Taking Your Measurements

Accurate measurements form the foundation of finding your swimsuit size. You will need a flexible tape measure and ideally help from someone else for the most accurate results.

Measure your bust around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. Do not pull tight; let the tape rest gently against your body. Record this number.

Measure your waist at the narrowest point of your torso, typically just above your belly button. Again, keep the tape parallel and not pulled tight. This measurement helps with one-pieces and high-waisted styles.

Measure your hips around the fullest part of your bottom and hips, typically 7-9 inches below your waist. This crucial measurement determines bottom fit in both one-pieces and bikinis.

Understanding Size Charts

Every swimwear brand uses slightly different sizing. Always check the specific size chart for the brand you are purchasing rather than assuming your regular clothing size translates directly.

Compare your measurements to the brand’s size chart. If you fall between sizes, consider sizing up for comfort. Swimwear should skim your body without digging in or creating bulges.

Pay attention to whether sizes are listed in US, UK, or EU sizing. These systems differ significantly, and mixing them up leads to poor fits. Convert if necessary using standard sizing charts.

Top and Bottom May Differ

Your bikini top and bottom may not be the same size. Many women have different proportions between bust and hips. If sets force you to buy matching sizes, you may need to purchase separates instead.

Buying separates ensures each piece fits properly rather than compromising on one or both. Many brands sell tops and bottoms separately for this reason.

If your bust and hips differ significantly, look for brands offering cup-sized tops with separate bottoms. This allows you to get proper bust fit while choosing the right bottom size.

Trying On and Fitting

When trying on swimwear, wear underwear for hygiene purposes. Most stores require this, and the thin fabric simulates the feeling of wearing the swimsuit alone.

Move around in the suit. Reach overhead, bend over, sit down, and twist side to side. Everything should stay in place without uncomfortable digging or slipping. If you are constantly adjusting, the fit is wrong.

Check for gaping in cups or around leg openings. Excess fabric indicates sizing too large. Bulging at edges suggests sizing too small. A proper fit skims smoothly without either issue.

For one-pieces, check the torso length. If straps dig in or the suit rides up, you may need a longer torso size if the brand offers one. Too much fabric bunching suggests shorter torso needs.

Online Shopping Tips

When ordering online, measure yourself carefully and compare to the size chart. Order multiple sizes to try if the retailer offers free returns. This approach is often easier than hoping one size works.

Read customer reviews for fit information. Comments about whether items run large or small, whether tops fit certain bust sizes, and how bottoms provide coverage help you choose better.

Pay attention to model sizes in photos. Many listings include the model’s measurements and what size they are wearing. Compare these to your own measurements for reference.

Special Sizing Considerations

If you have a larger bust, look for swimwear with cup sizing rather than standard small-medium-large. Cup-sized swimwear, like bra sizing, ensures proper fit and support for your specific measurements.

Long and petite torso versions exist from some brands. If you consistently find one-pieces too long or too short, seek out brands offering torso-length options.

High-waisted bikinis may require different sizing consideration. The higher rise means waist and hip measurements matter more than with low-rise styles.