Swimwear for your shape

Figure-flattering swimwear can make you look 5kg lighter and boost your confidence

Pear: Go for a fullpiece with an emphasis of detail on top and a hi-cut bottom; low V-cuts, halterneck or one-shoulder styles draw the eyes away from hips & thighs. If you like bikinis choose tops with patterns, prints and light/bright colours and a plain, hi-cut bottom in a dark, slimming shade.

Athletic: Bikinis with bold patterns, colours, ruffles and pretty side-ties will add curves. Horizontal lines create an hourglass figure. For full-pieces, try frills for a feminine touch.

Hourglass: One colour cozzies help to slim down your body but avoid items that cut off mid-hip. For full-piece and monokinis, try cleavage-flaunting styles. Keep the same pattern, or colour on top and bottom, for balance.

Petite: String bikinis can be customised for a snug fit while high-cut bottoms elongate the leg line. Halterneck straps will make a torso seem longer. Be wary of florals and polka dots – they may be too “little girl”.

Tall and lanky: Bikinis with frills and ruffles emphasise curves and help to create an hourglass shape as do tie details, daring prints and bold colour. High waisted bottoms are ideal for you.

Pear: Focus your attention away from your lower half
Crochet design one-piece R590, Speedo	Ory boobtube swimsuit R1895, Sea Weeds Boutique
Aqua Doce one shoulder full-piece R899, Rainbow	Maryland V-neck tankini R664, Speedo
Athletic: Add volume to create a curvier figure
Floral bikini top R59.99 and bottom R59.99, Mr Price	Orchid one-piece R1199, Seafolly at Stuttafords (
African flower ringbandeau bikini top R199, bottomR169, Accessorize	SABZ bikini R1295, Slimsuit Distributors
Hourglass: Highlight your womanly curves and nipped in waist
Full-piece slimsuit R250, Woolworths	Maui girl stripe bikini, underwire top R89.90 and bottom R89.90 Pick n Pay Clothing
Striped bikini top R150, bottom R250, Foschini	Olive halter tankini top R199, bottom R180, Truworths
Petite: You want to lengthen your frame
SABZ monokini R1695, Slimsuit Distributors	Cia Maritima string bikini R799, Rainbow
Shimmer separates bikini, top R499, string bottom R349, Seafolly at Stuttafords	Orange/gold/white print bikini with gold chain detail top R599, and bottom R599, lovewaterlove
Tall & Lanky: You want to create curves
Kulu bikini R450, Rainbow	Turquoise polka dot bikini, bandeau top R499.95, boy-short bottom R299.95, Calvin Klein Swimwear
Turquoise/white floral bikini top R649, and bottom R449, lovewaterlove	Stripes and anchors bikini top R599, bottom R449, lovewaterlove