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Petite & Proud: The Swimsuit Styles That Have My Heart

By: Emily Whitehill.

Published on

- 4 min read


Hey lovelies! Emily here, diving into a topic that’s close to my heart and wardrobe: swimsuit styles for the petite and proud among us. Finding the perfect swimsuit can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when you’re on the shorter side. But fear not, I’ve scoured the beachfronts (both virtual and physical) to bring you the styles that not only fit like a dream but also make a splash.

 A full-length image of a young woman with shoulder-length brunette hair, wearing a high-waisted, floral bikini, standing on a city beach, early evening.

High-Waisted Wonders

Let’s kick things off with a style that has truly stolen my heart: the high-waisted bikini. This retro-inspired look isn’t just a nod to the glamourous beach days of the past; it’s also a petite girl’s best friend. High-waisted bottoms elongate your legs, making you look taller and more statuesque. Pair them with a ruffled or bandeau top to balance your proportions, and you’re golden.

For those who love a bit of print, florals and vertical stripes work wonders. They draw the eye up and down, enhancing the elongating effect. And if you’re into solids, don’t shy away from bold colors. They make a statement that’s as big as your personality.

One-Piece Wonders

Who says one-pieces are reserved for swim team practice? Modern one-piece swimsuits have evolved into pieces of art, with cutouts, asymmetrical designs, and bold patterns that flatter the petite figure beautifully.

 A full-length image of a young woman with wavy ginger hair, wearing a sleek, black one-piece swimsuit with a cutout on the waist, urban poolside, midday.

One-piece swimsuits with high-cut legs are a godsend. They instantly add inches to your legs, making you look like you’ve got legs for days. Look for styles with interesting necklines, like a deep V or a halter, to draw attention upwards and add a touch of elegance.

Tankini Time

Don’t overlook the tankini. It’s not just a swimsuit; it’s a versatile piece that can take you from a beach day to a casual lunch with the addition of a skirt or shorts. For us petite gals, a tankini with a slim-fitting top and a high-waisted bottom can work wonders.

 A full-length image of a young woman with short blonde hair, wearing a blue and white striped tankini, walking on a city boardwalk, late afternoon.

When choosing a tankini, opt for vertical stripes or small prints to keep the look cohesive and flattering. And here’s a pro tip: look for adjustable straps to ensure the perfect fit. It’s all about creating a seamless silhouette that highlights your best features.

Daring in a Bikini

Yes, petite women can rock a bikini like no other. The key? Finding the right proportions. A triangle top paired with low-rise bottoms might be the classic choice, but there are so many more options that can flatter a smaller frame.

 A full-length image of a young woman with long black hair, wearing a bright yellow bikini with a bandeau top and tie-side bottoms, on a bustling city beach, sunset.

Think about mixing and matching. A bandeau top can emphasize your bust, while tie-side bottoms allow you to adjust the fit perfectly. And don’t be afraid to play with textures and layers. A crochet top or a fringed bottom can add a playful element to your beach look.

Cover-Ups That Complement

The perfect swimsuit deserves the perfect cover-up. For petite frames, I love lightweight, flowy materials that don’t overwhelm the body. A short kaftan or a wrap skirt can be just the thing to take you from the beach to the boardwalk in style.

 A full-length image of a young woman with mid-length light brown hair, wearing a white lace cover-up over a pastel bikini, strolling through a city beach park, early morning.

Look for cover-ups that cinch at the waist or have vertical details. They keep the eye moving and complement the swimwear underneath. And when it comes to patterns, think big. A large print on a small cover-up can be incredibly striking and make a bold fashion statement.

Wrapping Up

Finding the perfect swimsuit as a petite woman doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these styles and tips, you can hit the beach or pool feeling confident and stylish. Remember, it’s all about embracing your unique shape and finding pieces that highlight your best features. So, dive in, experiment with different styles, and most importantly, have fun. After all, the best accessory to any swimsuit is a radiant smile.

Petite and proud ladies, I hope this guide helps you find your next summer love. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or dancing on the beach, remember that the best swimsuit is the one that makes you feel like the beautiful, powerful woman you are. Happy swimming!