Looking for swimwear is always tough and being petite, I am always trying to find suits that will fit a shorter/smaller frame which can often be hard. I have a shorter torso and have trouble finding swimsuits that fit and look good on me.
If you have a tough time finding swimsuits that fit a smaller frame, here are a few go-to spots to find swimsuits that fit petite women and what to look for when shopping online.
This post contains affiliate links. By using my links to shop I may receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!
Stylish One-Piece petite swimsuits
I find that one piece swimsuits can either go really matronly or really sexy.
It’s funny how it’s hard to find an in-between but now that one piece swimsuits are on-trend it’s easier to find options that will work for us petite ladies.
This suit is by far one of my favorites as it’s very flattering on, the torso fits great and it’s a bit low cut but not super revealing.
And the most important part it hugs your body in all the right places and you never feel like you’ll fall out of it in the pool.
You can buy mine here but there are also a few different varieties, one shoulder, scallop and high waist bikini.
What to look for in one piece swimsuits for Petite women
Always look for the cut of the leg. A higher cut is more flattering and will elongate the leg.
Find the right torso length for you and alter if needed.
The torso length is super important as you don’t want it to be too baggy.
If you do find that to be the case, you can get the straps altered to fit so that the torso fits better.
LOOK FOR ADJUSTABLE STRAPS
The easiest and best way is to find swimsuits like these that can be tied and adjusted to your body.
Different patterns, texture or cut outs along the waist always or chest help to make you look taller and slimmer too.
It helps break it up and gives the illusion of a longer waist.
WHERE TO SHOP FOR PETITE SWIMSUITS
There are a few stores that I can always rely on for great swimwear every year.
J Crew
J Crew always has great options and is one of my top spots to shop for petite swimsuits.
The quality is one of the best (I never feel like the material is see through or fits baggy/loose).
They often have sales so it’s easy to get one at a great price!
Nordstrom
Nordstrom is a go-to not just for selection but their generous return policy.
This allows you to purchase a few styles to try on at home and see what works best for you.
I find that their swimsuits are more higher end but it does make a difference if you are looking for a swimsuit that fits you well and has higher quality fabric.
ASOS
It’s not common to find swimsuits specially for petite body types which is why I was excited to see that ASOS has a line of petite swimsuits.
I’ve ordered a lot from their petite clothing line and find that fit tends to run small so I always size up. However, I do love that they cater this line to petite girls and found that it fits great.
Styles are always so cute and trendy and priced right around $50 but often times I can even find them on sale for less than $20!
High waist swimsuits for short girls
High waist swimsuits are great for petite girls, especially those of us with a short torso.
And as a mom, it’s something that I’m more comfortable in than a regular bikini.
I need a suit that I can play in the pool, chase my kids, hold the baby and be comfortable!
Look for bottoms that fit right above the belly button. I find that to be the most flattering rather than too close to the bust.
Mix and match can be fun but I find it to be most flattering to stick with the same pattern on top and bottom.
Fun details like scallops or a small tie/bow are a good way to add some interest without adding too much bulk to the waist area.
Where to find affordable swimwear
I can completely understand not wanting to spend a lot of money on swimsuits.
I live in Seattle and don’t get much use out of my swimsuits unless I go on vacation so I do like having some more affordable choices that I won’t feel so bad about spending money on.
Shop for affordable swimsuits at:
- Target
- Walmart
- Aerie
- Amazon
- Gap
- Old Navy
I love shopping Aerie for their bras and panties but their swimsuits have quickly become my favorites as well. They are mostly under $50 and they have some great sales. Most of the time I can get them for under $30!
Best Swimsuits for last minute shopping
If you are like me and always seem to wait until last minute to shop for your beach vacation, Amazon is always a great spot for cute swimsuits and free 2-day shipping! (If you are not a Prime member yet, that’s just another reason why you should sign up!)
One thing I will say about Amazon is that pictures can be deceiving.
I look at the images to see if I like the style but I read the reviews to make sure that when it arrives it looks like the swimsuit and also to get fit advice.
Most of these suits are under $40 and I own a few of them and have been happy with the quality!
This smocked high waist bikini is one of my favorites that I own. I’ve worn it to every beach/sunny vacation that we’ve traveled to. It holds up well and is comfy and so cute!
For more petite style check out these posts:
The Best dresses for petite women
Where to buy petite loungewear
