5 Best Bathing Suits That Flatter an Apple-Shaped Body (2025)

Everyone’s body is beautifully unique, but let’s face it—some shapes can make swimsuit shopping feel like solving a puzzle. If you're blessed with an apple-shaped figure, you know exactly what I mean.

The constant battle with waistbands that pinch, suits that never sit quite right, and styles that seem like they were made for someone else's curves altogether.

So, when our high-waisted KINGSTON ONE PIECE became the ultimate fan favorite among our apple-shaped customers, we weren't exactly shocked—just really, really thrilled. Women keep telling us how flattering it feels, hugging their curves perfectly, offering amazing support, and (most importantly) making them feel genuinely incredible.

But let's be honest—one superstar swimsuit is great, but it's hardly enough to fill your summer wardrobe. You deserve options—lots of them.

With that in mind, we've curated this guide just for you, showcasing five fabulous bathing suits from our latest collection, each thoughtfully chosen to celebrate and flatter your beautiful apple-shaped figure. Dive in—your perfect swimsuit awaits.

Quick Look: Best Bathing Suits For an Apple-Shaped Body

The best swimsuit for an apple-shaped body is one that provides waist definition, bust support, and tummy coverage while highlighting your best features. Here are the top picks:

  1. Strategic One-Pieces with Ruching: Creates Visual Slimming Effects

  2. Empire Waist Swimwear: Creates Flattering Lines for Apple Shapes

  3. Wrap-Style Designs: Support Features for Bust and Midsection

  4. High-Waisted Two-Pieces: Balances Proportions

  5. Swim Dresses with Structure: Flatter Apple Shapes Without Appearing Matronly

At JMP The Label, we believe that everybody is beautiful and deserves to feel confident in a bikini. That’s why we offer a variety of swimsuits designed to flatter different body shapes and sizes.

If you have an apple body shape, you will likely have these features:

  • Fuller Midsection: The waistline is less defined, and weight tends to gather around the stomach area.

  • Rounder Torso: The upper body may appear rounded or wider compared to the lower body.

  • Slimmer Arms and Legs: Many apple-shaped individuals have leaner arms and legs, making them great features to highlight.

  • Average to large bust: Apple-shaped women often have a full bust, which can be an asset when styled properly.

  • Broad Shoulders: The shoulders may be slightly wider, creating a top-heavy appearance.

Reviewing The 5 Best Bathing Suits for Apple-Shaped Bodies

Let’s now look at the best styles for apple-shaped bodies in more detail.

1. One-Pieces with Ruching

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Ruching refers to gathered fabric that is stitched in a way that creates soft folds. If you have an apple-shaped body, ruchedone-piece bikinis can help visually smooth your midsection.

Instead of clinging tightly to the stomach, the ruched fabric drapes over it, creating a more flattering and streamlined look. This subtle draping effect tricks the eye into seeing a slimmer waist while still allowing for movement and comfort.

We take this style a notch higher with our KINGSTON ONE-PIECE - PINK SHINE, which features a corseted front. With modest cut-outs, it has ruched details that make it sexy in all the right places.

We also put in fully adjustable straps to ensure it fits all heights. Plus, it’s available in sizes up to 3XL. Tummy Control Panels

Many ruched swimsuits come with built-in tummy control panels, which add gentle compression to the midsection. Wide Straps and Underwire

Additionally, wide straps and underwire or molded cups in the bust area provide essential support, ensuring that everything stays in place while you swim or lounge.

Adjustable straps are also beneficial, as they allow you to customize the fit for maximum comfort. Color and Pattern Options Matter. Dark colors, such as black, navy, or deep jewel tones, tend to be the most ideal. However, pink also works.

Meanwhile, you don’t have to stick to plain shades. Strategically placed patterns can also work wonders. Our Kingston is available in Mariposa and even Tortuga prints. Look for swimsuits with darker panels on the sides and a brighter or printed panel in the center to create an illusion of a curvier waist.

  • Vertical or diagonal patterns also help elongate the body.

SHOP KINGSTON ONE-PIECE - PINK SHINE HERE

2. Empire Waist Swimwear

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An empire waistline is a design where the waist seam sits just below the bust rather than at the natural waist.

This placement draws attention to the slimmest part of the torso—the area under the bust—and allows the fabric to flow gently over the stomach. It creates a beautiful elongating effect that enhances your figure.

Since apple-shaped bodies tend to have fuller busts, support is key:

  1. Empire waist swimsuits often feature built-in bras, underwire, or molded cups to provide lift and keep the bust in place.

  2. Wide straps also add extra security and comfort.

  3. Some styles come with high necklines or halter straps for even more support.

Varieties of Empire-Style Swimwear (Tankinis, One-Pieces)

  • One-Piece Empire Swimsuits: Our La Jolla Corset One-Piece and Nassau provide full coverage while still defining the waistline.

  • Empire Tankinis: A great option if you prefer a two-piece but still want tummy coverage. The top flows over the midsection, mimicking the effect of a one-piece while allowing for more flexibility.

Like ruched swimsuits, solid dark colors are flattering, but patterns can also be used strategically.

At JMP The Label, we ensure our bathing suits are available in floral prints and abstract designs for variety. We also offer handmade crochet swimsuits.

3. Wrap-Style Designs

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Wrap-style swimsuits mimic the look of a wrap dress, with fabric crossing diagonally across the body.

This creates a natural "V" shape that elongates the neckline and torso while drawing the eye inward to make your waist appear more defined. Big Help For Waist Definition

Diagonal lines from our Santorini One-Piece wrap style help break up the width of the midsection for a sexier look. Support Features for Bust and Midsection

Wrap-style swimsuits typically come with built-in shaping features, such as tummy control panels and padded cups for bust support.

The gathered fabric in the midsection also helps improve the appeal of the stomach area while maintaining comfort.

QUICK TIPS:

  • Choose a deep V-neck wrap design if you want to enhance the bust while elongating the torso.

  • Opt for a faux wrap one-piece if you prefer something that doesn’t actually tie but still provides the slimming effect.

We made our Signature Santorini One-Piece to have an open-back design and flirty wraparound tie straps.

That way, you’re able to show off your body while keeping everything perfectly in place. It also features a high-leg cut and cheeky bottom. Also, it’s better to stick to solid colors or subtle prints for a more streamlined look.

Shop Our Santorini One-Piece Swimsuit Here

4. High-Waisted Two-Pieces

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High-waisted swim bottoms help to cinch the waist, offering more tummy coverage than traditional bikini bottoms.

They highlight the narrowest part of your waist, creating a curvier look while providing full coverage over the midsection.

The higher rise in our crochet Manzanillo Bottom prevents any unwanted "spillage" over the waistband, making you feel more confident.

It also features a high leg fit, solid lycra in the gusset/back coverage for extra comfort, and a high waisted crochet waistband design that is ultra flattering for apple-shaped bodies.

This bottom is perfect for anyone who wants coverage without compromising on the crochet look.

To balance a fuller midsection and bust, pairing high-waisted bottoms with the right top is key. Some great options include:

  • Underwire or structured, sexy bikini tops for extra bust support.

  • Mini halter dress to lift and shape the bust while drawing attention upward.

  • Ruffled or off-the-shoulder tops to create volume at the shoulders, balancing the overall silhouette.

Since it’s an apple-shaped body, a dark-colored bottom with a printed or bright-colored top can help balance proportions by drawing attention upward.

Shop Manzanillo Bottom Swimsuit Here

5. Swim Dresses with Structure

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Gone are the days when swim dresses looked outdated. Modern swim dresses are stylish, with A-line cuts and structured designs that enhance the figure without looking bulky.

Our signature Reno swimwear top and bottom provide excellent coverage for the midsection while still looking chic.

The best part is that it’s a reversible swimsuit. It’s the perfect high leg, cheeky bottom with a scoop front and back. Look for swim dresses with built-in bras, underwire, or molded cups for bust support.

Length and Cut Considerations

  • A swimsuit that hits just above the mid-thigh is ideal.

  • Too long, and it may look heavy, but too short, and it may not provide enough coverage.

  • Some styles have slits or asymmetric hems that make the legs look longer and add a modern touch.

Shop Our Signature Reno swimwear Here

Swimwear Mistakes Apple-Shaped Bodies Should Avoid

The goal for choosing swimwear for an apple shape is to highlight your legs and curves.

With that in mind:

  1. Stay away from boy shorts that make your legs look shorter or your hips appear slimmer, especially if you have a fuller midsection.

  2. Avoid swimsuits that draw attention to your waist, such as one-piece designs with bold colors or eye-catching patterns around the belly, as they may not be the most flattering choice for an apple-shaped body.

  3. If you have an apple-shaped figure and plan to hit the waves in a bikini, make sure to pick a piece that stays secure while surfing.

How to Accessorize Your Swimwear Like a Pro

Are you ready to hit the beach looking stunning? Check out these top swimsuit brands for summer 2025.

For starters, a lightweight kimono, flowy beach dress, or crochet cover-up in a color that complements your swimsuit keeps the look stylish and put-together.

But to make things better, consider the following:

  • Statement Earrings: Large hoops, dangly earrings, or colorful studs draw attention to your face, especially if you have a flattering neckline like a wrap or deep V-neck swimsuit.

  • Necklaces: If your swimsuit has a plunging or scoop neckline, a long pendant necklace can help elongate the look. If you’re wearing a high-neck swimsuit, skip the necklace and focus on earrings instead.

  • Waist Belts or Sarongs: Adding a belted swim cover-up or tying a sarong at your natural waist helps define your shape and adds an elegant touch.

  • Hats: Our wide-brim Dune hats not only protect your skin from the sun but also balance out your proportions, especially if you want to shift focus away from your midsection.

Final Words

Sometimes it seems like swimwear is always designed with hourglass or pear shapes in mind, but honestly, that's just not true. No matter your shape or size, there's a swimsuit out there that's practically calling your name.

If you're someone who tends to carry weight around your middle, has a smaller bust, and has a less curvy backside, we've got you covered—literally. Each of the five styles above was handpicked to highlight your best features, making you look and feel fantastic at the beach or poolside.

At JMP The Label, we’re all about making swim dresses and tankinis feel stylish, modern, and anything but matronly. Our signature one-pieces are crafted thoughtfully so they highlight precisely what you want to show off and come in various sizes, colors, and prints designed to flatter every body type.

Loved this guide? Pass it along—after all, swimsuit shopping is always better with friends.

5 Best Bathing Suits That Flatter an Apple-Shaped Body (2025)
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