Best Swimsuits for Pear-Shaped Women

Pear-shaped women often struggle to find swimwear that fits well and feels stylish. With hips fuller than the shoulders and a naturally defined waist, this body type benefits from specific cuts and thoughtful design. The right swimsuits for pear-shaped women can highlight your strengths and bring balance to your proportions. In this post, we’ll break down what a pear-shaped body looks like, share styling tips that actually work, and suggest the most flattering bikinis, one pieces, and cover-ups. If you're shopping for swimwear for curvy women or looking for trusted options in swimsuits for pear-shaped body types, you're in the right place.

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What Is a Pear-Shaped Body?

A pear-shaped body is characterized by hips that are wider than the shoulders, often accompanied by a smaller waist and a more defined lower half. This body type typically has a rounder or fuller appearance around the hips, thighs, and buttocks, while the upper body tends to be narrower. To flatter this shape, styles that highlight the upper body and draw attention upward are often recommended. Check out our blog post about swimsuits for different body types.

Tips for Choosing the Best Swimsuits for Pear-Shaped Women

Here are essential tips when shopping a swimsuit for pear-shaped women:

  • Define your waist: Highlight your waistline with high-waisted suits that include belts or structured seams. This draws attention to the slimmest part of your body and helps define your shape.
  • Minimize lower-body focus: Avoid drawing attention to the hips and thighs with details like horizontal stripes or ruffles on the bottom. These elements can exaggerate the lower half and disrupt balance in your silhouette.
  • Balance your frame: Go for wide straps instead of thin ones, as they help bring harmony to your lower half. Wide straps also offer better support and comfort, especially for larger busts. However, if you have a smaller bust, you might find our post on the Best Swimsuits for Small Busts helpful too.
  • Choose minimal bottoms: Pick styles with less coverage on the bottom. Though it might seem unexpected, skorts or skirts can actually make your hips look wider.
  • Mix and match: Choose separates so you can customize the size and style of each piece. This is especially helpful if you wear different sizes on top and bottom.
  • Use light layering: Layer with a lightweight cover-up that enhances your shape. Opt for longer, flowy pieces that skim over the hips. Sheer or semi-sheer fabrics can add movement without adding volume.
  • Shift the focus upward: Go for darker colors or solid tones on the bottom and brighter or patterned tops to shift the focus upward. This color contrast naturally draws the eye to your upper body and creates visual balance.

Best Bikini Ideas for Pear-Shaped Bodies

Bikinis can be incredibly flattering for a pear shape, if you pick the right styles. When searching for swimsuits for pear-shaped women, focus on outfit choices that highlight your best features:

  • High-waisted bikinis with a ruffle top or puff sleeve top: The added volume at the top creates a more proportional appearance.
  • High-waisted bikinis with embroidered tops: Embroidery draws the eye upward. Explore our embroidery bikini collection.
  • High-waisted bikinis with tie-front style tops: They add interest and enhance the bustline, giving more definition to the upper half.

Best One Piece Swimsuits for a Pear Shape

If you prefer one pieces, look for structured and stylish elements that flatter your curves:

  • Thick straps: These give support and visually widen your shoulders. They also help distribute weight evenly, making your swimsuit more comfortable for extended wear.
  • Embroidered designs near the neckline or chest: This draws the eye up and away from the hips. Delicate detailing here can add a touch of elegance and elevate your overall beach look.
  • Tie shoulder styles: A playful way to bring attention to your upper body. Adjustable ties ensure a customizable fit, perfect for different body shapes and sizes.
  • Shaping panels or slight ruching at the waist: These design details gently smooth your waistline and create a curvier look. They provide a light shaping effect and comfort.

Best Cover-Ups for Pear Shapes

Don’t underestimate the power of a great cover-up. The best styles for pear-shaped women are the ones that provide light coverage without clinging to the hips.

  • Look for flowy maxi dresses, sheer kaftans, or open-front sarongs that don’t add bulk.
  • Avoid fitted skirts or coverups that draw the eye directly to your lower half.
  • Choose pieces with interesting details at the shoulders or neckline to maintain focus on your upper body.

Need more inspiration? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Beach Coverups for more options.

With so many smart options available today, shopping for swimsuits for pear-shaped women doesn’t have to be a challenge. Choose pieces that define your waist, add volume to your upper half, and minimize distraction from the hips and thighs. The right combination of fit, color, and detail can transform your swimwear experience and help you feel confident wherever you go.

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