If you’ve got a rounder midsection, fuller bust, and slimmer legs, you’re likely dealing with an apple body shape. That doesn’t mean swimsuit shopping has to be frustrating—it just means you’ll want to pick cuts that shift focus and give you support where it counts.
Here’s a no-fluff guide to finding swimsuits that fit right, look great, and feel good when you’re actually wearing them.
What Is an Apple Body Shape?
Apple-shaped bodies tend to carry more weight around the stomach, with broader shoulders, a fuller bust, and narrower hips. If your waist isn’t well-defined and most of your weight sits above the hips, you probably fit this category.
The good news? You’ve got great legs and curves up top. The right swimsuit just needs to bring balance—no extreme tricks or illusions.
What You Want From a Swimsuit
You’re not trying to “fix” your shape—you’re looking for pieces that support your core, define your waist, and shift focus to what you love.
Here’s what usually works best:
- Tummy control: Look for suits with compression panels or ruching around the waist.
- Support up top: A good underwire or wide band can make a huge difference.
- Leg-friendly cuts: High-cut bottoms or skirts let your legs shine.
- Smart necklines: V-necks, halters, or asymmetrical cuts help open up your shape.
Avoid shapeless styles or tight horizontal patterns across your stomach—they rarely do you any favors.
Top 5 Swimsuit Styles That Work for Apple Shapes
- One-Piece Swimsuits With Ruching
A one-piece swimsuit with side ruching smooths your waist and helps shape your middle. A deep V-neck or wrap-style top draws the eye upward. Pair it with adjustable straps or a halter if you need extra bust support. - High-Waisted Bikinis
These are your friends if you want two-piece flexibility with more stomach coverage. Go for a high-rise bottom with full back coverage and pair it with a sturdy bikini top. Think wide straps, molded cups, or even a tank-style top. - Swim Dresses
Think of these as the beach version of an A-line dress. The fitted top supports the bust, and the flared skirt gives movement while covering your stomach and hips. They’re also great if you want something a little more modest without going full-coverage. - Tankinis
Tankinis work well when you want coverage without committing to a one-piece. Look for tops with built-in shaping or longer hems that don’t ride up. A V-neck tankini top paired with a high-rise bottom can give the look of a one-piece bikini with more comfort. - Asymmetrical Cuts
A one-shoulder swimsuit or wrap-style top draws attention diagonally, which helps break up the width across your upper body. These are good for balancing broader shoulders and adding shape.These five recommended options from JMPthelabel would work for your body shape.
Add-Ons That Help
Floaty Cover-Ups
Go for a light, open-front kimono or tie-waist wrap. Look for pieces that hit above the knee to show off your legs.
Structured Tops
If you’re picking a two-piece, make sure the top has underwire, molded cups, or firm banding. Skip anything flimsy that won’t hold up to movement.
Smart Prints
Try dark, solid colors around the waist and brighter or bolder prints on top to bring focus upward.
Accessories That Steer the Eye
Sunglasses, hats, and bold earrings—anything that draws the eye away from your waist adds balance.
If you’re still unsure about your decisions, we’ve rounded up some information from the concept wardrobe to help you figure it out!
Things to Avoid
- Thin straps with no support
- Low-rise bottoms that cut across the stomach
- Bandeau tops (unless they’re seriously structured)
- Excess fabric around the middle that adds bulk
You don’t need to hide your body—just choose pieces that make you feel good in it.
Try These Outfit Combos
- One-piece with wrap waist + long sheer cover-up + metallic sandals
Great for lounging, beach bars, or anywhere you want to feel put-together. - High-waisted bikini + structured halter top + woven tote
Solid for travel or poolside hangs. - Swim dress + wide-brim hat + bold sunglasses
Clean, confident, and classic. - Tankini with V-neck + slide sandals + kimono wrap
Easy to move in. Keeps things breezy.
FAQ
What’s the most flattering swimsuit for apple body shapes?
One-pieces with ruching, high-waisted bikinis, and swim dresses are usually best.
Can I wear a bikini if I’m apple-shaped?
Yes, just pick one with a high waist and a top that gives support.
Are tankinis good for rounder middles?
They’re great—as long as the top doesn’t ride up. Look for shaping or longer hems.
Where can I learn more about styling for apple shapes?
Vogue India has an excellent guide with additional tips and recommendations for apple-shaped bodies.
What should I avoid?
Thin straps, no support, or low-rise bottoms that dig into your waist.
How do I balance my top-heavy shape?
Use neckline shapes, bold prints, or accessories to guide the eye upward. Keep support where you need it.
Final Word
You don’t need to fit into someone else’s idea of the “perfect” body. You just need swimwear that feels like you and fits like it should.
Skip the nonsense. Choose smart cuts, get the support you need, and wear the thing that actually makes you want to show up.
The right swimsuit isn’t the one that hides you. It’s the one that fits your shape and lets you enjoy the day.
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