Finding the perfect fit in your swimsuit or bikini is the best way to feel confident and comfortable by the pool. But are you left wondering how to tell if your swimsuit is too small? If you're currently out swimsuit shopping or about to head on holiday, knowing the signs that your swimsuit is too small can save you from that awful feeling of something not fitting.
How To Tell If Your Swimsuit Is Too Small
A poorly fitting swimsuit or bikini is not only uncomfortable but can be frustrating or even downright embarrassing when you are just trying to have fun. We’ve been creating well-fitting swimwear for years, so we thought we’d put together a post to help spot the red flags, understand what makes well-fitting swimwear and hopefully guide you toward the right swimsuit, whether it's a flattering two-piece swimsuit, a supportive high neck design, or a sleek one-piece.
Watch for Physical Signs of a Wrong Size
Red Marks & Strap Digging
If your adjustable straps or wide straps leave painful red indentations, it's a clear indicator that the fit is off. A snug fit should feel secure without leaving imprints. If the straps on your swimsuit or bikini are very thin and you have a large bust, it simply might mean you need wider straps, but if you are getting red marks from the swimwear digging in, it’s time to rethink your swimwear and go for a better-fitting option.
Side or Under-Boob Exposure
An ill-fitting top, especially if your swimsuit cup size is too small, can cause spillage. Whether it's side boob or under boob showing, that's a sign the bra size or cup-size bikini top is too small. Choose swimwear that is designed for your cup size or bust shape.
Wedgies and Sagging Bottoms
Constant wedgie trouble means the bottom half of your suit may be too snug. If your swimsuit bottom rides up unexpectedly or the baggy parts become extra saggy when wet, the fit is wrong. If your swimsuit fits everywhere else, it might mean you have a long torso, so you might benefit from one of our longer length swimsuits, which offer extra inches in the length of the cozzie. Our taller and longer-bodied ladies love the fit of these longer-length swimsuits.
Difficulty Breathing
A swimsuit that's too tight or unbreathable can restrict movement or breathing. If you're constantly adjusting or feel constricted, your swimsuit is likely that little bit too small. You should feel comfortable and supported, not restricted and unable to move freely.
Tight Bands and Strap Indentations
When the band is too tight, it can pinch, restrict movement, or even cause spine stiffness. As a general guide, you should find that you should be able to slide two fingers underneath the band when your swimsuit is on.
Know What a Great Fit Feels Like
A nice, tight fit hugs the body like a seatbelt. You’ll feel like it holds everything in place but doesn’t hurt. You want smooth coverage, no bunching or creases. That’ll give you the best beach silhouette.
Even if you're in the water, adjustable or wider straps should stay in place. Thin string straps can slip, especially with large busts. Wider, adjustable design means better support and lift for you and your bust.
The cups on your bikini or swimsuit should lie flat, with no bulging at the edges or exposure. If you find that the bottom half shifts or reveals more than you intended it to, it’s time for a better-fitting style or larger size. Don’t worry about the number on the label. The best-fitting swimsuit will give you the best shape.
Your swimsuit should lie smoothly on your curves. No bunching, sagging, or baggy areas. You’ll find that this is especially important for styles like high-waisted bikini bottoms or one-piece swimsuits.
Fit Features
When you are shopping for your swimsuit, look for adjustable straps. You’ll find that these let you fine-tune the support you need to your body measurements, torso length, bust size and body shape.
You may find that those with a larger bust will benefit from wide straps, in-built shelf bras or soft cups. Take a look at our post about fuller bust swimwear for some of our top recommendations of styles to try.
Depending on your body type, hourglass, pear, apple or athletic, you should choose styles that flatter and make the most of your shape. Our blog posts about these body shapes will help you decide.
For mismatched top and bottom sizes or differing proportions (like long torso vs. wide hips), two-piece swimsuits or tankinis let you mix sizes for a better fit.
Our Top Tips
Use a Tape Measure and Size Chart
Before shopping for swimwear, we’d suggest taking your bust, waist, hip, and torso measurements with a tape measure and not just relying on dress sizes. You’ll find that different brands will have different sizing, so always take a look at their size guide.
Stretch-Test for One-Piece Fits
Some suits can feel tight at first, but it’s best to wear them for a few minutes and see how they feel. If it still feels too tight, simply just size up. You’ll find shopping with an online retailer, like us here at Halocline Swimwear, is convenient as we offer free UK delivery on all orders over £40 and free returns. So trying on different sizes or sending one back and ordering another is no hassle at all.
Confidence Check
Try it on, move around, and ask: Do I feel confident? A swimsuit should make you feel like your best self, not restrictive or uncomfortable. This should be the case in the pool and on the sun lounger, so imagine yourself swimming and lying in your new swimsuit.
Quick Fit Guide
Red strap or band indentations >> Too tight; causes discomfort >> Size up; look for adjustable or wider straps/bands
Side/under boob exposure >> Cup size too small; inadequate support >> Choose a larger cup size or a supportive style
Constant wedgie or sagging bottom >> Bottom half is too tight or a poor fit >> Try a larger size or a different swimsuit style
Difficulty breathing or moving >> Too tight overall >> Size up for more comfort
Wrinkles, bunching, or gaping >> Too loose in areas >> Size down or switch to a different cut
Smooth, snug fit with ease of wear >> Great fit! >> Maintain this size/style; it's your perfect fit.
Finding your perfect swimsuit is simple, all about fit and confidence. When you are shopping for your swimwear, you should focus on how the suit feels across your torso length, cup size, and bottom half. Forget what looks good on everyone else and what size other people are wearing, buy the right swimsuit for you and your style.
That way, you’ll feel the most confident you can be on the beach, and you’ll look fabulous too!
It’s a good idea to measure yourself using a tape measure, check the detailed size chart, and consider multiple sizes or styles. You’ll also find that features like adjustable straps, wider straps for a larger bust, and supportive cups make a huge difference in how a swimsuit feels.
Trust us, the last thing you want is a new suit that leaves you tugging, adjusting, or feeling insecure. A properly fitting swimsuit is a great option that looks great and empowers you to enjoy the warm weather—whether lounging in St. Kitts & Nevis or simply having fun on your local beach or pool.
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