How to Tell If Your Swimsuit Really Fits

Make sure your swimsuit fits well before you arrive at the pool.

You've probably seen the cringe-worthy photos in gossip magazines and tabloids of celebrities caught in unflattering beachwear. There's nothing worse than realizing your swimsuit doesn't fit -- especially when you don't notice until after you arrive at the pool or beach. Prevent a potential wardrobe malfunction by making sure your suit is the right size before you leave the house. A properly fitting swimsuit will allow you to jump, dive, jog and swim without discomfort or constant adjustments.

Instructions

1. Measure your bust, waist and torso with a tape measure or piece of yarn to get approximate idea of what size you wear, although sizes do vary by company. Wrap the tape measure snugly around each body part. Measure the fullest part of your bust, the smallest part of your waist and the entire length of your torso. Measure yourself in a bra and underwear for the most accurate results and record measurements on a sheet of paper. Compare your measurements with a size chart, such as the one on the Venus swimwear company website, to make sure you know your proper size.

2. Check your shoulder straps to make sure they are not too tight. K&B Sportswear, a swimwear shop, explains that a suit should pass a strap test. Insert your thumb under one of the shoulder straps and try to pull the strap up to your earlobe. A properly fitting swimsuit will not fully stretch to your ear.

3. Lift your arms above your head, then extend them from each side, making a "T" shape. Your top should stay firmly in place during this exercise. Lean forward, preferably in front of a mirror. Make sure that your breasts remain covered. Suits with underwire tops should stay gently molded to the bottom of each breast, not lay upon the breast tissue. Your suit is too small if your breasts bulge out of the bra cups. It is too big if the cups are loose or baggy.

4. Sit in front of a mirror and examine your rear end. The suit should not creep up your thighs or wedge itself between your bottom. Other signs of an ill-fitting suit include bottom cleavage, pinching and indentations.

5. Check for side and stomach bulges. A tight suit draws attention to every extra inch of body fat, even if you have a slender build. Hide a flabby belly under a suit with ruched fabric, ruffles or a built-in stomach minimizer. Saggy, drooping fabric is a sign that you need a smaller size.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your suit in cold water and lay it flat to dry to prevent shrinking.

References

• Sports Authority: How to Buy Women's Swimsuits
• K&B Sportswear: Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

• Venus: Women's Clothing and Swimwear Size Information
• The Budget Fashionista; The Right Swimsuit for Your Body Type And Budget; May 2010