If you're mulling over how to choose a bikini for the upcoming swim season, there are a few considerations to factor into your ultimate decision. Read on as LoveToKnow helps you select the right swimsuit for your body type and lifestyle.
Thoughts on How to Choose a Bikini
For most people, the first and foremost decision regarding bikini selection deals with their budget. However, a swimsuit that fits and flatters your frame is truly priceless. So before you start counting your dollars and putting away your credit card, it's important for you to note that a less expensive swimsuit may not be cut to your frame as ideally as a brand name piece that takes into consideration the complexity of the female form.
Examining Your Body Type
Your body type should be your first consideration in how to choose a bikini. If you're going to bare practically all at the beach, then you want to pick the bikini that's right for you. If you're a zealous gym attendee who excels at spin class, chances are that bikini shopping will be easier for you than for others. However, many women who work out on a regular basis still have figure flaws they want to hide or downplay. Fortunately, bikinis come in many styles that can accentuate your best features and distract from your worst.
If your thighs aren't a showpiece but your upper body is strong and fit, then a halter bikini can really magnify your shoulders, thus drawing attention away from your less than perfect areas. Bikinis with boy shorts or boy briefs can also provide more coverage for your lower half. However, if your legs are your ticket to fame but your torso lacks tone, the tankini swimsuit is a godsend. Do note that apron tankinis will not offer the same coverage and security as the traditional camisole tankini.
Bra top bikinis are best for women with more than ample chests. These sports-bra like swimsuits will hold your assets in while you hit the shores.
The string bikini can either be a real hit or a complete miss with certain body types, so this swimsuit style is best reserved for fit and well-toned figures. Women willing to reveal more skin may even choose to look into the micro bikini or the super micro styles. Be forewarned that the latter two swimsuit styles may not be acceptable for public beachwear and should be reserved for private pool areas due to their exotically revealing nature.
Lifestyle Considerations
Are you an active swimmer? Do your beach visits include a tendency towards water sports and heavily athletic activities? These are factors you definitely want to consider when you're wondering how to choose a bikini. Yes, there are several bikini styles that may seem like flattering options. However, if you're lifestyle is quick and sporty, you may find that string and micro bikinis won't hold up to your activity level. Many women who have worn string designs to water parks can relay a sad tale of ill-coverage. Surfer girls generally wear bra top styles to counteract the rough and tearing effects of the waves.
However, if you're an avid tanner, you will be looking for as little coverage as possible. Many teens and young women specifically hit the shores in hopes of developing a bronze glow, so string bikinis offer the least amount of tan lines. The skimpier the style, the better for this activity. Thong Bikinis will lessen tan lines along the derriere region, but they are a risk for imperfect figures. Also, do keep in mind that although sheer bikinis are the most effective for avoiding tan lines, they also tend to be too revealing for public areas.
Where to Purchase
If you need more assistance in choosing a bikini, it's always a good idea to visit a specialty swim shop. The salespeople are usually well equipped to answer many questions regarding styles and brand options. After all, they deal with all kinds of customers on a daily basis. Moreover, the swim industry is always evolving to suit the needs of women, so a swim shop will typically carry the latest innovative trends.
