Thank you to Boohoo for providing all the swimwear for this post!

I’ve always somewhat struggled with finding swimwear that flatter my body type in the best way possible. I have a very straight body type, not many curves, and my hip to waist ratio being almost at 1. My build is also pretty athletic: broader shoulders, toned arms, thicker legs.

Over time, I’ve learned what type of clothing best accentuates my body, and in doing so, I’ve been also able to understand what type of swim looks best on me. I understand that defining what type of clothing/swim looks best on what body can come off as somewhat controversial, but this post is in no way saying that you are limited to the options I am presenting. By all means, live your best life boo! But these are the options I think work the best for me, and maybe they will work for you! Now, on to the best swimsuits for athletic body type!

I’m a huge fan of one pieces, particularly those that have some character. And a suit with a side cut out and/or one-shoulder is one of the types of swim that work so nicely for my body type.
The cutout gives a slight illusion to having a waist that isn’t proportionate to your hips. Because the side(s) are cut out, your eyes are drawn to where the cut out is, almost eliminating the extra body that isn’t covered (if that makes sense). One shoulder pieces also draws the eye in the direction from where the shoulder is covered, which in my opinion, makes me appear just a tad bit more taller than I actually am. And a one shoulder is perfect for us with broad shoulders.Go for pieces that cut out right where your waist is. Not all swimsuits are made equally, but you know your body better than anyone and you can eyeball where your waist will be positioned in a suit (if you’re shopping online).

Boohoo Cutout Swimsuit

Similar Options: Volcom | Missguided | Missguided | New Look

Not only is my waist pretty much proportionate to my hips, it is also short. My legs do most of the talking on my body and a bikini that sits right at my hip does me zero justice (especially because I have hip dips). A bandeau style bikini highlights my shoulders and back in the best way possible, with no distractions! As the queen once said: if you got it, flaunt it! I actually used to be pretty self conscious of my shoulders, but now, I absolutely love them and tops like this give me an extra boost of confidence.

This style of a high leg bottom will hit right at your waist, which will inadvertently make your waist look a bit smaller, and will also show off the legs in a flattering way.

Boohoo High Leg Bikini

Similar Options: Missguided | Asos | Lola Shoetique

I saved my favorite for last! Swimsuits with multiple cutouts, specifically in the mid section is perfect for accentuating your waist. Because this one also ties up, I was able to adjust how loose or tight I wanted it to be. My waist actually dips in so being able to tighten to the desired fit was a win. 

This suit also shows a bit of cleavage, which I personally think is totally fine for swimwear. But, the peak-a-boo actually lends positively to the overall look of this suit on me. The waistline on this suit also comes up higher than average which I can definitely appreciate. And, this suit can def double as a top under a cute skirt or a pair of mom jeans…WIN!

Boohoo Cut Out Swimsuit

Similar Options: New Look | Forever 21 | Asos

Hope you guys enjoyed this post as much as I enjoyed putting it together!

Until next time…