Checklist to suit all types

There’s a bikini for every shape and size

The Triangle shape

What is it? You’re a triangle if your hips and buttocks are wider than your shoulders.

The best style for triangle figures: Select a bikini that draws the eye up. You can do this by choosing a two piece with halter straps to help balance your shoulders and minimise the width of the hips. Bikini tops should also enhance the bust so go for frills and ruffles with moulded padding to create shape.

The heart shape

What is it? You’re a heart shape if your bust is wider than your waist and hips.

The best style for heart figures: You need swimwear that will give your bust adequate support. Don’t despair about finding a bikini top for you — many brands make gorgeous tops in Sizes D/DD/E and F. You’ll find these at specialist swim stores. Ensure your bikini top has underwire and moulded support. Seek out a top with adjustable and generous strap widths; this will support the size of your bust and will also balance out the decolletage area.

The hourglass shape

What is it? You’re an hourglass figure if your waist is smaller than your bust and hips. Most hourglass shapes have a full bust and hips.

The best style for hourglass figures: Choose a top with underwire and special moulding. Go for tops with wide straps or halter necks as these tops draw attention away from the fullness of the breast area to balance the weight into your shoulders. For bottoms, go for a retro style with waist details such as ruching. Go for prints — there are some gorgeous floral options available at the moment — as these camouflage problem areas, while block colours will draw attention.

The rectangle shape

What is it? You’re a rectangle shape if your hips and shoulders are about the same width. You’ll generally have little waist definition and a small bust.

The best style for rectangle figures: You want a bikini that will give the illusion of a waist. Go for a top like a strapless bandeau, or those with plunging necklines or halter straps. Bottoms perfect for this body shape are girly skirts and frills across the hips. These styles will take the focus off your torso and give you more definition.

The Diamond shape

What is it? You’re a diamond shape if your waist is the same width, or greater, than your hips and shoulders.

The best style for diamond figures: Go for swimwear that draws attention to your decolletage. The best styles for a diamond shape are tankinis (with an A-line singlet that won’t cling to your waist) or a one-piece with mid-body detailing such as ruching.

The square shape

What is it? Many petite women are a square shape. They are usually short in height, with similarly proportioned features.

The best style for square figures: For the top, go for styles that enhance the bust and accentuate the cleavage. Tops should be moulded, and look for push-up bra styles and booster pads. For the bikini bottom, the best style is one with detailing such as side ties and skirted frills to work to enhance the slim hip and create the look of a waist.