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How to choose the right swimsuit?

Bikini coloré pour femme

Choosing the right swimsuit depends on key criteria such as the type of model, the level of support, and the intended use. Before looking at the various cuts, it is essential to understand the basics that allow you to make an appropriate choice.

To make your choice easier and learn about all the specifics of swimwear, check out our complete swimwear guide.

 

 

At the end of the article, find THE collection that answers your questions!


Choosing between a Bikini and a One-piece

The choice between a one-piece swimsuit and a two-piece depends primarily on your silhouette, your desired level of support, and your usage.

Criterion Bikini One-piece swimsuit
Tanning Tans more easily. Less uniform tan.
Support Support varies depending on the type of top chosen. Excellent support.
Body Shape Suitable for all body shapes thanks to adapted tops and bottoms, such as high-waisted briefs.
Suitable for all body shapes.
Style & Fashion Bold, sexy, and versatile. Elegant and sculpting.
Comfort Great freedom of movement. More coverage, feeling of support, ideal for sports activities.
Silhouette Highlights curves. Smooth and homogeneous structure.

 

To settle the bikini vs. one-piece question, we asked three of our stylists:
Cynthia, Fashion Designer/Pattern Maker: "I recommend the bikini for those who want an even tan and want to play with colors and patterns. But for an elegant and structured effect, the one-piece swimsuit remains unbeatable."
Magali, Fashion Designer specialized in prints: "The one-piece is timeless and suits all body shapes. The bikini is a bolder fashion choice, perfect for balanced silhouettes."
Emmanuelle, Fashion Designer and Pattern Maker: "For me, it all depends on comfort and activity: pool, beach, or water sports. The bikini is light; the one-piece offers more support."


A wide variety of styles

There are several types of swimsuits, each meeting a specific need.

  • Triangle: suitable for smaller busts
  • Bandeau top: perfect for tanning without strap marks

Black bandeau swimsuit

Kelaa high waisted brief
  • Shorty: covers the hips

 

Your choice of swimsuit also depends on your activity. For sports, we recommend a high-support sport swimsuit, such as a one-piece or shorty-style bottom.

 

Classic swimsuit or shaping swimsuit?


The choice between a classic swimsuit and a shaping swimsuit depends mainly on your goal: do you simply want to dress your silhouette or structure it?

A classic swimsuit naturally follows the body's curves. It focuses on comfort and freedom of movement. It suits you if you are looking for:
  •  A natural look
  •  A feeling of lightness
  •  A swimsuit for tanning or occasional swimming

As for the shaping swimsuit, it is designed as a silhouette ally. It helps smooth certain areas of the body.

With its firm mesh lining, the Aruba black shaping swimsuit sculpts your curves and provides a flat stomach effect thanks to its elegant draping on the front.

Aruba shaping swimsuit

When should you choose a shaping swimsuit?

Our fashion experts recommend it if you want to:
  • Smooth the belly
  • Redefine the waist
  • Support a generous bust
  • Harmonize prominent hips
Your silhouette appears more toned without sacrificing comfort.
Pro tip from Sans Complexe Paris designers
If you don't want a shaping swimsuit, you can opt for a model with more fabric volume in areas you want to refine, such as ruffles or textured details.

Our KELAA one-piece swimsuit perfectly illustrates our experts' recommendations: textured details combined with a waist belt to attenuate visibility.

Kelaa navy blue swimsuit

Considering color and patterns

The choice of color or pattern directly influences the perception of the silhouette.

If you want a slimming effect: go for dark colors like black or navy blue and discreet patterns. If you want to add volume, think of light colors, large prints, or horizontal stripes.

Sans Complexe Paris offers a range of swimwear designed to meet all desires.

Choosing the right swimsuit

Fashion tips from our Sans Complexe Paris stylists:

"To minimize the belly: wear a dark color in the center.

To harmonize the hips: go for a light top combined with a dark bottom.

To enhance the bust: opt for patterns on the top of the swimsuit."


Choosing a swimsuit in your size


Choosing the right swimsuit size is THE crucial step. Indeed, your swimsuit must:
  • Support without compressing
  • Not gap
  • Stay in place with or without movement

Our special swimwear size guide makes your online purchase simpler: consult our guide.

 

 

This article was written by Sélène, our Content Manager, in collaboration with Guilhermina, our Studio Director.

Choosing the right swimsuit: the essential criteria

- The choice depends on your body type and how you plan to use it
- A structured one-piece or a two-piece that adapts
- A shaping swimsuit sculpts, a classic swimsuit supports
- Colors visually alter the silhouette
- The right size guarantees comfort and support