Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a perfect ‘beach body’.
However, there is such a thing as perfect swimwear. Choose wisely and it can smooth bits that are lumpier, wobblier and lower than you’d like – giving you the confidence you only dreamed of having in your 20s.
Of course, choosing the right swimwear isn’t a trivial matter. The first big choice is whether you want to wear a bikini or swimsuit. Allow me to help you out here: the answer is always a swimsuit.
I’m not saying this because my own bikini days are now behind me (nor because I believe there’s an age limit). I personally feel much more confident in a one-piece – and I’m not alone.
The collections of swimsuits on offer this year are vast. No longer an afterthought reserved for ‘women of a certain age’, the one-piece is a serious fashion statement – Accessorize has sold 34 per cent more swimsuits than bikinis this season.
If you’re after one, now’s the time to get it.
Read on for our guide to the five most flattering, age-defying shapes and where to find them…
Stylish sculpting
Twist control, £14, primark.com
Gone are the days when it was glaringly obvious you were wearing a tummy control swimsuit.
Today’s designs master the art of subtle sculpting with bold colours, delicate ruching, mesh panels and other modern twists – all in engineered fabrics that smooth without constricting.
It used to be expensive to get this kind of technology, but this sculpting orange piece from Primark, with moulded cups and adjustable straps, is just £14. Tight but not too tight, it may feel exposing – but it’s far more flattering than something that sags.
Blue multi-way, £42, pourmoi.co.uk
The wonder wrap-front
Leaf print, £18, sainsburys.co.uk
All the reasons we love a wrap-front on a top or dress apply to your swimsuit, too.
A classic wrap swimsuit gently hugs your waist, while accommodating any bust shape, and leaves you with a look that feels both tailored and flattering – without being restrictive. It’s the perfect choice if you want a classic, timeless shape with a modern twist.
This palm print design from Tu at Sainsbury’s is only £18 and is machine washable – many aren’t, so do check care labels.
Navy, now £5, matalan.co.uk
Asymmetric neckline
One shoulder, now £55.20, monsoon.co.uk
If you want swimwear that feels modern, an asymmetric neckline is an easy place to start. It adds interest to your swimsuit without feeling intimidating or too ‘look at me’.
It works brilliantly on all body shapes, but if you have even a hint of a bust, look for designs with built-in cups for extra support. Monsoon’s leaf print is available in sizes 8 to 22.
Ruffle, £65, mint velvet.com
Youthful prints
Retro, £89, boden.com
A printed swimsuit instantly puts me in holiday mode. Just to be clear, ‘youthful’ doesn’t mean childish – avoid ditsy florals and look for bold retro prints, like this one from Boden, which is especially flattering thanks to a v-neck.
After seasons of neutral palettes, these feel like a little rebellion, in the best way. Whether you’re poolside with a paperback, or diving into the waves, a bold print makes everything feel more exciting.
Tie-back, now £58, reiss.com
Clever cutaway
Cutaway, £40, johnlewis.com
Monochrome, £20, asda.com
A cutaway swimsuit might sound daunting, but it’s the perfect way to show just the right amount of skin. You’re looking for strategic, tasteful cut-outs, but don’t sacrifice on the fit.
After all, you want to be able to relax on a sun lounger (and perhaps even go for a swim!) without anything spilling out.
Why are they so popular? Because they blend playful with polished. This green design from John Lewis is the perfect segue from a bikini.
