The Best Swimsuits and Bikinis for Short Torsos

Shopping for swimwear that makes you feel good if you feel self-conscious about a shorter torso. How do you find a style that boosts your confidence? 

Whether you're heading to the beach or lounging by the pool, this guide will help you find the most flattering swimsuit styles for your body type.

 

Best Swimsuit Styles for Short Torsos

 

1. One-Shoulder Tops

One-shoulder tops help to create asymmetry on the body, drawing the eye upwards and breaking up the horizontal plane of your body, making it appear longer.

They also highlight your shoulders and collarbones which creates an elegant, lengthening effect.

 

Shop The Aubade Swimsuit Now

 

2. Front-Tie Bikini Tops

Front-tie bikini tops reveal more skin between the bust and waistline, this can create the illusion of extending your torso. 

They also create an upward focus that draws the eye upward for the appearance of length.

 

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3. One-Piece Swimsuits

A well-fitted, high-quality one-piece swimsuit on creates a sleek, unbroken figure from shoulders to hips, all helping to extend the mid-section.

If you’re partial to a one-piece then look for designs with vertical seams, plunging necklines, or low-cut backs which all help to enhance the elongating effect.

 

Shop Maryan Mehlhorn Swimsuit

 

4. High-Cut Bikini Bottoms

High-cut bikini bottoms elongate your legs, which balances a short torso by creating a longer lower body line. 

Be sure to opt for styles that angle upward toward your hips for maximum effect.

 

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5. V-Neck Swimsuits

V-necklines are well known in the fashion world for drawing attention downward, and this extends to swimwear as well. 

Whether in a bikini top or a one-piece, a deep V-neck is one of the most flattering options for short torsos.

 

Shop Now Halterneck Swimsuit 

 

6. Strapless Bikini Tops

Strapless tops expose more skin, drawing attention to your shoulders and collarbones and making your torso look longer. 

If you prefer support, opt for a bandeau with a sweetheart neckline.

 

Shop Bandeau Bikinis

 

7. Monochrome and Vertical Stripes

Block colour swimsuits and vertical stripes create a continuous line that makes your body look longer. 

Dark colours also provide a slimming effect, while vertical patterns add visual height.

 

Shop Nicole Olivier Swimsuit

 

Swimsuit Styles to Avoid With A Short Body

While some swimsuits can enhance your proportions, there are others that can make a short torso appear even shorter. Although your personal taste is most important, and if you prefer a style that is ‘technically wrong’ for your body type, by all means go for it. It’s your body, your choice. 

Here’s what to avoid:

• Tankinis: The separation between the top and bottom creates a horizontal break that shortens the torso.

• Longline Bikini Tops: These extend down the midsection, covering too much skin and reducing the appearance of length.

• High-Waisted Bottoms: Although stylish, high-waisted bottoms tend to visually shorten the torso by sitting slightly too high on the waist.

• High-Neck Swimsuits: High necklines shorten the visible length of your neck and upper chest, making your mid-section appear even more compact.

How to Tell if You Have a Short Torso

Not sure if you have a short torso? 

Here’s a simple test:

1. Stand in front of a mirror wearing fitted clothing.

2. Place your hands on your hip bones.

3. Measure the space between your hands and the bottom of your rib cage.

If there is less than 10cm between your rib cage and hip bones, then it’s you likely have a shorter torso than average.

Extra Tips On How To Style A Shorter Torso

Did you know that accessories can also play a role in creating the illusion of a longer torso. 

Next time you’re packing for a beach holiday why not consider these style tips? 

 

Shop The Parasol Sarong Now

 

• Beach Sarongs Tied Low on the Hips: Helps create a lower focal point for your waistline.

• Long Pendant Necklaces: These draw the eye downward and extend your silhouette.

• Oversized Sunglasses: They create contrast with your midsection.

• Wide-Brimmed Sun Hats: These can help add height and balance 

• Long Earrings:  A pair of elegant drop earrings can help add vertical emphasis to your look.

When it comes to creating your own unique style that you feel confident in, the key point to remember is that choosing the right swimwear for a short body is all about elongating and balancing proportions. 

The experts at Maison SL are always happy to help guide you in choosing the most flattering pieces for your body type, feel free to visit us at our Notting Hill boutique. 

No matter your body shape, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and beautiful in your swimwear. 

Explore the complete collection of designer swimwear at Maison SL.