Women who wear plus size clothing no longer have to cringe when the warm weather rolls around with the accompanying worry over buying swimwear that fits and looks good. Designers are manufacturing more plus size swimwear than ever before, and the designs include more than just one-piece swimsuits. Choosing a plus size bikini involves choosing the proper fit, and it also involves making a number of other choices, such as highlighting or downplaying certain body features. A ruffle or other eye-catching feature at the bust, for example, can balance wider hips, and it also can draw a viewer’s gaze upward, away from possible problem areas. A popular and attractive style choice for a plus size bikini is the tankini, which consists of the usual style of bikini bottom and a tank top-length top.
Popular wisdom for decades has sent larger women to the racks of black, brown and navy plus size swimwear because darker colors are said to be more slimming, but you don’t have to settle for these colors any longer. Designers have created plus size bikinis that are colorful, fun and tasteful, strategically using color to visually highlight curves while concealing shortcomings. Trying on a colorful plus size bikini before purchase is advisable because swimwear and other clothing often looks different on a body than it does on a hanger.
If you need extra support at the bust, you should look for either a tankini or a regular plus size bikini that is constructed with extra support on top. Extra support could come in the form of underwire, or in the form of wider straps. Some swimwear experts say wider straps provide more lift and comfort while decreasing back strain. On the other hand, if you want to make a large bust appear smaller, the tops of some tankinis and plus size bikinis are designed as bust minimizers and will be labeled as such for easier shopping.
The bottom half of a plus size bikini may need some extra attention, too. You want to make sure the bottom covers adequately and there are no potentially embarrassing material shortages in the rear. If thighs or the derriere are areas of particular concern, some bottoms come with a small, flirty skirt that helps to camouflage these problems. A plus size bikini that is constructed partially of a stretchy material is a good choice for both comfort and coverage. The swimsuit also should be lined for better coverage.