If you have a small bust and slim hips, you've probably tried on bikinis that “don't say anything” or never quite flatter you.

The truth is that this body type (similar to the rectangle) doesn't need hiding, it just needs bikinis that add volume, movement and shape.

In this guide we explain which bikinis really flatter if you have a small bust and slim hips, with clear, easy tricks.

How to tell if you have this body type

You'll probably recognise yourself if:

• Your bust is small or not very pronounced
• Your hips don't particularly stand out
• Your waist isn't very defined
• Your silhouette is fairly straight

👉 If you're not completely sure, see the full guide here:
Which bikini suits your body shape

What to look for in a bikini (the key)

Your goal is clear: create visual curves.

For that you need bikinis that:

• Add volume on top and on the bottom
• Add texture or movement
• Gently define the waist

The best bikinis for a small bust

1. Tops with volume (your best ally)

• Ruffles
• Ruching
• Knots in the centre
• Textured fabrics

👉 They add dimension without the need for padding.

2. Padded or push-up bikinis

• Ideal if you want a more noticeable effect
• Best with light padding (natural looks better)

3. Triangle cut (chosen well)

The classic triangle bikini works, but with a few caveats:

• Better with prints or details
• Avoid versions that are too simple and plain

The best bikinis for slim hips

1. Tie-side bottoms

• They add volume at the sides
• They break up a straight line

2. Ruched or textured bottoms

• A visual effect of more shape
• Very flattering without any effort

3. Prints and light colours

• They visually add width
• Perfect for balancing your silhouette

Cuts that help create curves

If you combine top and bottoms well, you can completely transform the result:

• Top with volume + tie-side bottoms → an hourglass effect
• Structured top + printed bottoms → more shape below
• A textured set → more body overall

Which bikinis to avoid

They're not forbidden, but they won't help if you want curves:

• Completely plain, minimalist bikinis
• Very skimpy bottoms without detail
• Band-style tops without structure
• Dark colours without contrast

👉 They tend to accentuate a straight shape.

Style tricks that make the difference

This is where you really see the result:

1. Play with layers

• Bikini + open shirt
• Bikini + a sarong with volume

👉 It adds dimension to the outfit.

2. Strategic accessories

• Necklaces
• Statement earrings
• Eye-catching sunglasses

👉 They draw attention to specific areas.

3. Mix and match

You don't have to wear matching sets:

• Statement top + neutral bottoms
• Or the other way round

The most common mistake

Choosing bikinis that are too basic “so as not to draw attention”.

👉 In this case, the opposite happens:
the simpler it is, the less it flatters.

A combination that always works

If you want something easy and effective:

• A top with ruching or a centre knot
• Tie-side bottoms
• A light colour or print

👉 Result: more volume + more shape, effortlessly.

Find bikinis that bring out the best in your body

If you have a small bust and slim hips, you don't need to change your body:
you need to choose bikinis that work in your favour.

👉 Prioritise:

• volume
• texture
• movement

And avoid anything too flat.

🔗 How this article fits into choosing your bikini

This is one of the cases in our general guide.

If you want to see all the options for your silhouette:
👉 Which bikini suits your body shape