The Best Swimsuits for Tall and Thin Frames: A Stylist’s Guide
If you’re tall and thin, you know the struggle of finding a swimsuit that doesn’t make you look like a string bean. The goal is to add visual curves and break up your vertical line. Here’s exactly what to look for.
High-Cut Legs Are Your Best Friend
A high-cut leg (think French cut) is the number one trick for tall, thin frames. It elongates your legs even more while making your hips appear wider. This creates the illusion of an hourglass shape. Look for side cuts that come up to your natural waist. Brands like Norma Kamali and some high-street options offer great high-cut one-pieces. Avoid low-rise bottoms that cut across your hip bone and make your torso look endless.
Add Volume with Ruffles and Textures
Flat, smooth fabric can emphasize thinness. Instead, choose ruffles, shirring, or textured knits. A ruffle-trimmed bandeau or a one-piece with gathered sides adds width to your bust and hips. For example, a blush pink top with cascading ruffles balances broad shoulders if you have them. Crochet or macrame details also give the illusion of more volume. Just keep ruffles concentrated on areas you want to emphasize (bust, hips) not all over.
Bold Prints and Horizontal Stripes
Prints trick the eye into seeing more width. Horizontal stripes are a classic: a navy and white striped bikini top or a halter with wide horizontal bands across the bust and hip works wonders. Florals, animal prints, and geometric patterns also break up your silhouette. Avoid tiny, delicate prints that get lost on a tall frame. Go for large-scale patterns - think oversized palm leaves or chunky polka dots.
Thick Straps and Structured Tops
Skinny spaghetti straps can make shoulders look bony. Choose thick straps, halter necks with wide bands, or sweetheart necklines that add structure. A triangle top with wide straps (like two inches) gives support and visual width. For a one-piece, look for a plunging neckline framed by thick straps, like a blouson style. This adds drama without being skimpy.
Bottoms That Add Curve
For bottoms, high-waisted styles with a wide waistband or side ties can add hip width. Look for cheeky cuts or shorts with a bit of gathering at the sides. A bikini bottom with a side shirring or a ruffle trim adds volume where you need it. Avoid boy shorts that cut straight across - they can make your legs look even longer and thinner. Instead, try a tie-side bottom that allows you to adjust the rise.
Colors and Fabrics to Choose
Bright, saturated colors (citrus, cobalt, magenta) and warm neutrals (tan, terracotta) are more flattering than black or dark shades that can wash you out. Fabric-wise, structured shapes like padded cups, underwire, or molded cups give shape. Ribbed fabrics also add texture and grip. Stay away from flimsy, unlined triangles that offer no shape.
What to Avoid
Avoid full-coverage one-pieces in a single color with high necks and classic cut legs - these emphasize length without break. Also avoid ultra-minimal styles like thong bottoms or bandeaus without support, as they can make you look even more elongated. Skip any swimsuit with vertical stripes or long, uninterrupted color blocks.
Final Styling Tip
Don’t forget to accessorize! A wide-brimmed hat, chunky sunglasses, and a sarong tied low on your hips can add more horizontal breaks. And remember, the right fit is key - if a suit fits loosely, it will hang and emphasize thinness. Go for a snug fit that hugs your curves.
Key Takeaway
For a tall, thin frame, choose swimsuits with high-cut legs, bold prints, ruffles, and thick straps to create the illusion of curves.
