Which swimsuit to choose according to your body type? The complete guide 2026
Saumo Swimwear
Finding a swimsuit you truly love, not just one that "does the trick," starts with understanding your body shape. Not to correct it, but to know which cuts naturally flatter it. This guide is direct, practical, and designed to save you time when choosing.
The 5 Female Body Shapes Explained
First and foremost, three measurements are enough: bust, waist, and hip circumference. Compare them, and your dominant body shape will clearly emerge.
| Body Shape | Defining Characteristics |
|---|---|
| X: Hourglass | Balanced shoulders and hips, defined waist |
| A: Pear | Hips wider than shoulders |
| V: Inverted Triangle | Shoulders wider than hips |
| H: Rectangle | Shoulders, waist, and hips in alignment |
| O: Round | Rounded silhouette, less defined waist |
X Shape (Hourglass): Enhancing Natural Curves
Shoulders and hips are balanced, and the waist is naturally defined. The goal: not to flatten this curve with overly structured or straight cuts.
What Works
- Tie-side triangle top: adapts to the bust, highlights the cleavage without forcing
- Fitted bralette: emphasizes the bust, stays within the lines of the silhouette
- Bandeau top: accentuates the shoulder line, allows the waist to breathe
- High waist bottom: emphasizes the waist and visually lengthens the leg
- Brazilian bottom: flatters the hips without overwhelming them
What to Avoid
- Overly straight one-piece swimsuits, as they hide the waist
- Very full-coverage bottoms that break the line of the hips
The Praiano triangle and Lerici bralette are designed for hourglass figures: flattering cuts, ECONYL® that hugs without compressing.
A Shape (Pear): Rebalancing the Silhouette
Hips are wider than shoulders. The strategy: draw attention upwards, allowing the bottom to breathe without weighing it down.
What Works
- Ruched or ruffled top: adds volume to the top to balance the silhouette
- Structured bandeau top: visually widens the shoulder line
- Bright colors or patterns on top, solid dark on bottom: directs the eye where you want it
- High-waist bottom: smooths, supports, and lengthens the leg
What to Avoid
- Ruffles or large patterns on the hips: they will amplify what is already prominent
- Knots on the sides of the hips
- Very high-cut thongs that cut the thigh mid-way
At Saumo, all styles are available as separate tops and bottoms. You can order your size for the top and your size for the bottom independently.
V Shape (Inverted Triangle): Softening the Shoulders
Shoulders are wider than hips. The idea is not to hide them, but to add volume to the bottom to rebalance the silhouette.
What Works
- Simple triangle top, without rigid structure: discreet on the shoulders, nothing that accentuates the build
- Light bralette, thin straps: support without widening
- Neutral or solid color on top: avoid drawing attention to the shoulders
- Bottom with ruching, ruffles, or patterns: adds volume to the hips
- High waist with details: structure and volume where it's needed
- Tie-sides: create the illusion of more defined hips
What to Avoid
- Very structured bralettes that accentuate the build
- Very wide straps
- Large patterns on top
H Shape (Rectangle): Creating the Illusion of Curves
Shoulders, waist, and hips are aligned. The body is straight and athletic. The objective: create contrasts where nature hasn't drawn them.
What Works
- Triangle top with push-up: creates volume at the bust
- Top with central ruching: adds shape, breaks the straight line
- Patterns, bright colors: add dimension to the silhouette
- High waist with side cut-outs: simulates a cinched waist
- Side ties: visual cinching at the waist
- High-cut leg: structures the buttocks and lengthens the leg
What to Avoid
- Overly plain one-piece swimsuits without cut-outs or details
- Very straight cuts from top to bottom
O Shape (Round): Enhancing All Curves
The silhouette is rounded, and the waist is not very defined. Rather than compressing or covering it, the challenge is to lengthen and structure it with the right cuts.
What Works
- V-neckline: visually lengthens the torso, creates a central line that slims
- Triangle top with ties: adjustable, highlights the décolleté
- Light underwire: support and lift without compression
- High waist: holds the tummy in, lengthens the legs
- High-cut leg: immediate long-leg effect
- One-piece swimsuit with side cut-outs: slims the waist without compressing it
- Vertical patterns: create a lengthening effect
What to Avoid
- Low-rise bottoms: they cut the silhouette in the wrong place
- Overly fitted cuts without support
- Non-stretch fabrics
Saumo Size Guide: How to Take Your Measurements
A soft tape measure, three measurements, that's all it takes to order with confidence.
The Three Essential Measurements
- Bust Circumference (BC): measure at the fullest part of your bust, with the tape horizontal at the back
- Waist Circumference (WC): at the narrowest point, usually 2 to 3 cm above the navel
- Hip Circumference (HC): at the widest part of the hips and buttocks, with feet together
Size Chart
| Size | Bust Circumference | Waist Circumference | Hip Circumference |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 80 – 84 cm | 56 – 62 cm | 86 – 90 cm |
| S | 84 – 87 cm | 62 – 68 cm | 90 – 94 cm |
| M | 87 – 91 cm | 68 – 76 cm | 94 – 102 cm |
| L | 91 – 96 cm | 76 – 84 cm | 102 – 108 cm |
| XL | 96 – 102 cm | 84 – 92 cm | 108 – 114 cm |
Hesitating between two sizes? For a more fitted look, take the size down. For more comfort and support, take the size up.
Different sizes for top and bottom? All Saumo styles are sold separately, so you can order your top size and bottom size independently.
Swimwear Body Shape FAQ
How can I accurately identify my body shape?
Take your three measurements (bust, waist, hips) and compare them. If shoulders and hips are similar and the waist is defined: X. If hips are wider than shoulders: A. If shoulders are wider than hips: V. If everything aligns: H. If the silhouette is rounded with little waist definition: O.
Do these tips apply to everyone?
These are guidelines, not strict rules. If a swimsuit makes you feel good and confident, it's the right swimsuit for you, regardless of your body shape. These guides are meant to simplify your choice, not complicate it.
Are Saumo models available as separate tops and bottoms?
Yes, all our two-piece styles are sold separately. You can create your set by choosing different sizes for the top and bottom.
What material do you use?
Our swimsuits are made from ECONYL®, a recycled nylon derived from marine and industrial waste. Resistant to salt water, chlorine, and UV rays, it retains its shape and colors season after season.
Can I return or exchange if the size doesn't fit?
Yes. You have 14 days after receipt to make an exchange or return. The swimsuit must be unworn, unwashed, with its original tag and hygienic protection.
Are your swimsuits suitable for larger busts?
Yes, our swimsuits are suitable for larger busts. Refer to the size chart, prioritizing your bust measurement.
How do I care for my Saumo swimsuit?
Rinse with cold water after each use. Hand wash with mild soap. Lay flat to dry, in the shade. No machine wash, no tumble dry. For all details, consult our care guide.
Saumo Swimwear Collection - designed in the South of France, conceived in Paris, manufactured in Portugal.
