When it comes to swimsuit fashion, understanding your body shape is key to looking and feeling your best.
The inverted triangle body shape, also known as the V-shaped figure, is characterized by broad shoulders, shapely legs, and a narrower waist and hips.
This unique body type presents its own set of opportunities and styling tricks when selecting the perfect swimsuit.
Women with this shape often have a naturally athletic build, and the goal when shopping for swimwear is typically to create visual balance—minimizsing emphasis on the upper body while enhancing volume around the hips and waist.
We at Simply Beach have put together a set of timeless styling tips and swimsuit recommendations to help you find suits that flatter your figure, boost confidence, and celebrate your beautiful V-shaped frame.
What Is an Inverted Triangle Body Shape?
The inverted triangle body type is defined by:
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Wider shoulders than hips
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Narrow waist and slimmer hips
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Shapely legs
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Often an athletic or muscular build
Famous women with this shape include Naomi Campbell, Demi Moore, and Angelina Jolie. If this sounds like your body, you may notice that swimsuits often fit differently on your top half versus your bottom half.
When dressing for this shape, the objective is often to create the illusion of an hourglass figure by balancing out your silhouette—drawing the eye downward and adding volume or detailing to the lower body, while softening the shoulder line.
One-Shoulder Swimsuits
One-shoulder swimsuits are a stylish and flattering choice for inverted triangle figures.
The asymmetrical neckline draws attention diagonally across the body, which helps break up the visual width of broad shoulders.
This neckline also brings a fresh, elegant twist to traditional swimwear.
For extra shaping, look for designs that incorporate ruching or gathering on the lower half, or across the waist.
These details enhance the illusion of curves and pull attention away from the upper body. One-shoulder swimsuits with diagonal prints or cut-outs are especially effective for creating visual flow from top to bottom.
A perfect example of this is the Beau One Shoulder Swimsuit in Black. It’s sleek and sophisticated, with a chic asymmetrical cut that flatters an athletic build.
To elevate the look further, consider styles with embellishments or volume around the hips, such as subtle ruffles or side ties. These design elements create movement and balance in your proportions.
Wrap Swimsuits
Wrap-style swimsuits are among the best options for inverted triangle shapes. The wrap design naturally pulls focus inward and downward, highlighting the waist while giving the illusion of broader hips.
These swimsuits often feature draping, crossover panels, or side ties, which help to sculpt the body and create flattering curves.
They're also incredibly versatile—you’ll find them in everything from minimal monochromes to bold prints.
Look for wrap swimsuits that feature:
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Contrasting colours or prints on the bottom half
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Side-tie accents or layered fabrics near the hips
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V-necks or surplice tops to elongate the neck and draw attention downward
These styles also work well for women who prefer extra coverage across the midsection, as the gathered fabric offers a subtle slimming effect while still enhancing your natural shape.
Halter Neck Swimsuits
Halter neck swimsuits are a smart choice for the inverted triangle body shape because they provide support while visually balancing your frame.
A halter neckline naturally draws the eye toward the centre of your chest and neck, helping to break up the shoulder line.
When choosing a halter neck, opt for:
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Wide straps to provide lift without emphasising shoulder width
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Soft cups or underwire for additional structure
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Details like ruching, belts, or prints around the hips
This style works particularly well with plunge or V-necklines, which open up the chest area and soften your upper body.
To balance the look, pair halter necks with bottoms that have ruching, ruffles, or side embellishments that create volume around the hips.
Avoid styles that have excessive padding or bulk at the bust, as these can further exaggerate the width of your shoulders.
Bandeau Swimsuits
Bandeau swimsuits are a wonderful option for softening the appearance of broad shoulders. Since the neckline runs straight across the chest, it reduces the angular line that often accentuates width.
To make the most of this style:
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Choose bandeaus with removable straps for more versatility
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Look for swimsuits that feature colour-blocking or side panels to draw attention downward
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Opt for bandeaus with embellishments or detailing at the hips for a balanced silhouette
If you're looking for a sophisticated take on this, check out the Bandeau Swimsuit collection. These styles offer both structure and softness, many with tummy control and textured fabrics for added dimension.
Some bandeau swimsuits also include in-built tummy control or textured fabric, offering both comfort and added dimension. For inverted triangle shapes, this balance between minimalist design and lower-body emphasis is key to achieving harmony in your overall look.
Cut-Out Swimsuits
Cut-out swimsuits are a trendy and effective way to create visual curves and break up a straight or angular silhouette.
For inverted triangle figures, focus on cut-outs placed at the waist or hips to draw attention downward.
Ideal features to look for:
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Side cut-outs that mimic hourglass curves
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Waistbands or belts that accentuate the middle
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Patterns or textures around the lower body
The Collective Multi Strap One Piece Swimsuit is a great option here. It offers subtle strappy cut-out effects that contour the waist and visually balance the silhouette.
Avoid cut-outs that emphasise the bust or shoulder area, as these can throw off the visual balance.
Instead, opt for symmetric or diagonal cut-outs that slim the waist and give the appearance of proportion between the upper and lower halves.
Details That Enhance Balance
When dressing for your shape, the right swimsuit isn't just about cut—it's about details too. Keep these design tips in mind:
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Ruffles, ties, or ruching at the hips can add needed volume to the lower half
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Bright or bold prints on the bottom, paired with solid colours on top, draw attention downward
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Diagonal lines or panelling help break up the shoulder line and guide the eye toward your waist
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Skirted bikini bottoms or swim shorts can create volume and soften a top-heavy silhouette
Additionally, mix-and-match swimwear is a great way to personalise your fit.
Consider choosing a more structured or supportive top in a darker tone, and pair it with lighter or printed bottoms to visually create balance.
Complete the Look: Beach Accessories
The right accessories can enhance your beach outfit while also contributing to your overall silhouette.
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Sarongs or wrap skirts add volume to the hips and offer coverage when desired
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Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses draw attention upward but in a soft, flattering way
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Long pendant necklaces or waist chains can help elongate the torso and draw the eye to the centre of your frame
Choose accessories that reflect your personal style, but don’t overlook their power to balance and complete your look.
Embrace Your Shape with Confidence
Finding the perfect swimsuit for an inverted triangle body shape is all about creating proportion and playing up your best features.
Whether you’re going for a minimalist one-shoulder style, a curve-enhancing wrap, or a sleek bandeau, there’s no shortage of flattering designs that will help you look and feel amazing.
Keep these styling principles in mind:
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Add volume and visual interest to your lower half
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Opt for necklines and straps that soften or minimise shoulder width
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Use patterns, colour placement, and cut-outs strategically
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Balance function with fashion to feel confident and supported
Most importantly, remember that every body is beach-ready.
With the right swimwear and a little styling know-how, you can embrace your inverted triangle shape with total confidence—and turn heads for all the right reasons this summer.