The “best swimsuit” looks different for everyone, but most fit questions at Splash fall into three buckets: lower tummy, waist definition and hips/thighs. Instead of fighting your shape, the trick is to choose a flattering one‑piece for curvy bodies that quietly does the job for you.

Below is a simple guide to the best swimsuits for belly, waist and hips, with suggestions from our one‑piece swimwear, tummy‑control swimwear and DD+ collections.

1. Lower Tummy Confidence

If your main concern is the lower belly (below the navel), you’re not alone – it’s one of the most common fit worries. The most flattering options combine tummy‑control panels, ruching and clever prints to smooth, not squeeze. 

1.1 Tummy‑Control & Ruched One‑Pieces

For the classic best swimsuit for belly, look for:

• Tummy‑control one‑pieces with hidden power‑mesh or control linings through the front.
• Ruched fronts or wrap‑style panels that drape over the tummy and create soft texture.
• Diagonal or vertical seams that visually lengthen your torso and stop the eye on the waist, not the lower stomach. 

These designs work especially well as a one‑piece for apple shape body types, smoothing the middle while showing off your legs and bust. 

1.2 Tiered & Swim‑Dress Styles

If you prefer more coverage rather than firm shaping, consider:

• Light swim dresses that skim over the tummy and upper thighs.
• Layered or tiered one‑pieces that float over the midsection instead of clinging. 

These styles are ideal if you want movement and coverage, rather than a “held‑in” feeling.

2. Waist Definition & Curve Enhancement

Many customers say they feel “straight up and down” or “round through the middle” and want more waist shape. The most flattering one‑pieces for this focus on visual waist definition rather than extreme control. 

2.1 Wrap, Cross‑Front & Belted One‑Pieces

For instant curves and balance:

• Choose wrap‑front one‑pieces with diagonal crossover at the bust and waist.
• Try belted one‑pieces or styles with a contrast waistband to highlight the narrowest part of your torso. 
• Look for plunging or V‑necklines to draw the eye up and create vertical lines through the centre. 

These cuts work beautifully on apple shapes and rectangles, turning a straighter torso into a soft hourglass without extra padding.

2.2 Colour‑Blocking & Side Panels

If you like a bolder look, try:

• One‑pieces with darker side panels and a lighter or printed centre – a classic waist‑carving trick. 
• Vertical stripes or panel seams down the middle to visually slim and lengthen.
• Mesh or cut‑out details angled in at the waist for a curvy shape that still feels secure. 

These styles are some of the easiest ways to get a flattering one‑piece for curvy figures if you like a fashion‑forward look.

3. Hips & Thighs: Balance & Coverage

If you carry more fullness in your hips, bottom or upper thighs, the aim is to balance proportions while keeping you comfortable when you sit, walk and swim. 

3.1 Leg Lines & Seat Coverage

Small changes to the leg cut make a big difference:

• Choose a mid‑cut leg for gentle lengthening without feeling too exposed.
• If you’re hip‑conscious, look for fuller seat coverage and side ruching to avoid digging in. 
• High‑leg 80s‑inspired cuts can be surprisingly flattering on curvy thighs, especially with a darker bottom and lighter top. 

For extra confidence, browse our full‑coverage one‑pieces and swim dresses.

3.2 Balancing a Pear or Curvy Hip Shape

For pear shapes and curvy hips:

• Look for one‑pieces with brighter or detailed tops and simpler bottoms to draw attention upward. 
• Try off‑shoulder, one‑shoulder or ruffled necklines to visually broaden the shoulders and balance the hips. 
• If you prefer more hip/thigh coverage, consider a soft skirted one‑piece or swim dress that skims, rather than clings. 

The goal is to highlight your favourite features – usually shoulders, bust and legs – while letting the suit quietly cover what you want less focus on.

4. Quick Guide: Match Your Concern to a One‑Piece Style

Concern	Look For	Avoid
Lower tummy	Tummy‑control panels, ruching, darker side panels, tiered or swim‑dress styles.	Very thin, unlined fabric and horizontal stripes across the tummy.
Waist definition / apple shape	Wrap fronts, belts, contrast waistbands, V‑necks, vertical seams, colour‑blocking.	Boxy tank shapes with no shaping, high round necks with no bust detail.
Hips & thighs	Mid or high‑leg cuts, full seat, ruching at the hip, printed or detailed top halves.	Leg lines that cut straight across the widest part of the thigh, bottoms that dig in.

5. Need Help Picking a Flattering One‑Piece for Your Shape?

Body‑type guides are a helpful starting point, but they’re just that – a guide. The most flattering one‑piece is the one you feel comfortable and confident in when you move, sit and swim.

If you’re unsure where to begin:

• Start in our one‑piece and tummy‑control collections.
• Filter by DD+ support, full coverage, ruched or long torso if those matter to you.
• Visit Splash Swimwear in Darwin or contact us online with your usual size and which area (tummy, waist, hips/thighs) you’re most conscious of.

Our fit team can recommend specific styles and brands – from Sea Level and Artesands to Capriosca – so your next one‑piece does exactly what you want it t