Curvy Woman's Swimwear Guide

1 of 15 ESSENCE/Andreas Hofweber

Look gorgeous by the water this summer in a swimsuit that flatters your curves. We help you find the right suit for your size that will enhance your body’s best assets.

2 of 15 ESSENCE/Andreas Hofweber

Look for styles specifically designed to slim your middle. One-piece suits offer the most coverage. Those with ruching or draping around the torso are especially flattering. Lands’ End solid slender tunic swimsuit, $82, landsend.com.

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3 of 15 ESSENCE/Andreas Hofweber

A wrap one-piece works wonders for your curves; it defines your waist while slimming your stomach. Bonus: This suit offers tummy-control lining. Avenue swimsuit, $100, avenue.com.

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4 of 15 ESSENCE/Peter Chin

A skirted suit easily masks fuller hips and thighs, but it’s not your only option. Two-piece suits can be just as flattering; just make sure the bottoms are not cut straight across the thighs. A high-cut bottom elongates legs and makes you look leaner. Coco Reef one-piece sarong, $80, Macy’s stores nationwide.

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5 of 15 ESSENCE/Andreas Hofweber

This modern take on a bikini makes you look and feel slimmer. The empire top drapes perfectly over your midsection. Speedo tankini and boy shorts, $48 each, speedousa.com.

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TIP:
Before you hit the sun for some fun, apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. Select a sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 15, but SPF 30 is preferable. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved cover-ups will further protect your skin from damage.

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7 of 15 ESSENCE/Peter Chin

To accentuate lush curves, look for suits with an ample amount of Lycra. Also, thick straps, tops with halter ties or racerbacks give better support to the bust. Torrid one-piece, $68, 866-867-7431.

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8 of 15 ESSENCE/Andreas Hofweber

A swim dress with an empire cut gives maximum upper-body support. A flared skirt creates an hourglass shape while masking hips, legs and thighs. Roaman’s swim dress, $50–$55, roamans.com.

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TIP:
Choosing swimwear with support will help to enhance your bust area. Look for bikini tops or suits that have built-in cups or underwire to give you that perfect fit and lift.

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10 of 15 ESSENCE/Peter Chin

You can find cute suits with added support without having to completely cover up. Choose those with underwire, a built-in bra and substantial shoulder straps. You can even try a two-piece, but avoid bandeau tops. FantaSizer one-piece, $86, select Macy’s stores.

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11 of 15 ESSENCE/Berry Behrendt

“Because most women value an even complexion, protecting the skin from chronic sun exposure is beneficial,” says Cheryl M. Burgess, M.D., medical director for the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, D.C.

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12 of 15 walgreens.com

UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin and potentially lead to premature signs of aging. Try using Aveeno positively ageless Sunblock Lotion For Face, SPF 70, $10.99, drugstores nationwide, which is formulated specifically for your face.

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13 of 15 ESSENCE/Andreas Hofweber

Halter tops aren’t necessarily skimpy. The tie closure lifts the bust, underwire helps it stay put, and ample fabric prevents sideways spillage. Go for a bold hue to complement sun-kissed skin. Toby Markulin for Marigo bikini top and bottoms, $40 each, Bealls stores nationwide.

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14 of 15 Getty

TIP:
Buy swimwear that emphasizes one of your favorite body features. Halter tops work great for women with a sexy bosom and boy shorts flatter curvy hips.

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15 of 15 Getty

Feel beautiful and beach-ready with the latest styles to make your summer unforgettably stylish.

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