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Question: I cannot find any cute and funky looking styles of summer dresses in plus sizes. My body is an apple shape and I have no ideas of styles that will look good on me. I am going to Cuba at the end of March and am desperately looking for bathing suits and cover-ups. Please help me.
Answer: With the exception of girls with model figures, swimsuit shopping is no picnic for anyone. We sympathize completely and will do our best to help.
When shopping for a plus size suit, it is alway important to think about support. They make many suits now with shelf bras and even bra cups, so we suggest shopping for swimwear like you would for lingerie. Also, halter styles or suits that have criss cross backs are best for added support.
As far as being flattering, we've selected a few sample styles to give you a couple of ideas:
Just because you are plus size, it doesn't mean black has to become your favorite color. If you want to wear a bright shade, go for it — just keep it a solid. We like this find from Swimsuitsforall.com in bright blue because it has a soft cup bra and halter straps, a control panel which smoothes and flattens your midsection like your favorite Spanx, and the shirred fabric in the stomach area to camouflage flaws. Plus it has a cute little skirt to hide your bum.
This paisley one-piece is a great example of how to wear a print. Try something with diagonal lines, which are much more slimming than the traditional tankini top with different colored bottom. That two-piece look chops up your body and has the same effect as the dreaded horizontal stripe. Diagonal lines will elongate you instead.
This Miraclesuit from Lane Bryant is fun and retro with playful polkadots, and again notice the way the fabric is pulled up in diagonal gathers to help define the waistline. This swimdress also comes with a built-in bra.
As far as the summer dresses go, perhaps we'll just have to do a Good Question Part 2…
In the meantime, take a peek at our Shapewear Guide, for the best pieces to keep you snug and fit under all of your outfits.
Need help finding something? Tell us about it on the boards, and we'll get on the case.
