Hour Glass Body Type:
If you’re an hourglass, you can pretty much wear any swimsuit combo. With one exception: stay away from suits designed to create an hourglass shape. I hope the reason for this is obvious — too of much anything is never good. As for specifically flattering items for an hourglass, boy shorts complement this shape, as well as the other shapes below.

Ruler Body Type:
Look for swimming suits that create give the illusion of shape or curviness. Also find high-waisted bottoms, as they add the illusion of shape to the hips. When you’re a ruler, you need to show off the bit of shape you have. Don’t be afraid of string bottoms (like the bottom picture below).
TIP 1: Don’t wear bikini bottoms low on your hips (or “hipster” style bottoms). This elongates the straightness of a ruler shape.TIP 2: Stay away from boy shorts, they will wash out the bit of shape you have as a ruler.
TIP 2: Stay away from boy shorts, they will wash out the bit of shape you have.
Pear Body Type:
Two pieces look great on a pear shape and are often more flattering than a one-piece. Boy shorts are an option also. See below for suggestions.

I hope the guidelines above help you narrow down your summer swimwear search. To share images of your swimwear successes or leave a comment, contact me.
As an athlete for over 17 years and a broke single mom for most of that time, I created this site to aid not only broke single parents to a life of fitness, but anyone who believes the road to fitness requires a lot of cash or time. In reality, the way to fitness is paved with knowledge and firm principles; teaching readers how to master both is the goal of this site.