Clothing researchers group figures into shapes by comparing a few key circumferences. Knowing your shape helps you choose cuts that balance your proportions – for example a halter top for a triangle shape or high-waisted bottoms for an inverted triangle. Every body is different, so treat the result as a starting point.
How to use the Bikini Calculator
- Bust
- Waist
- High hip
- Hips
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Measure around the fullest part of the bust, the narrowest part of the waist, the high hip (about 7 in or 18 cm below the waist) and the fullest part of the hips.
Style suggestions
| Shape | Styles that often flatter |
|---|---|
| Hourglass | Classic triangle tops, underwire, high-waisted or side-tie bottoms |
| Bottom hourglass / triangle | Detailed or bright tops, halter necks, simple darker bottoms |
| Top hourglass / inverted triangle | Simple supportive tops, patterned or ruffled bottoms, boy shorts |
| Spoon | Bandeau or embellished tops, mid-rise bottoms |
| Rectangle | Ruffles, cut-outs and belts to add curves; string bikinis |
Tips
- Measure over thin clothing with a soft tape held snug but not tight, and keep the tape level all the way round.
- Take each measurement twice; if you are between sizes, the larger size is usually the safer choice.
- Size charts vary by brand and country – check the maker’s own chart when it is available.
- For sewing projects, pre-wash fabric before cutting and buy 10% extra for shrinkage, pattern matching and mistakes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing inches and centimetres between the tape and the size chart.
- Forgetting seam and hem allowances when cutting fabric.
- Measuring an old, stretched garment instead of your body.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Bust | Units: in, cm |
| Waist | Units: in, cm |
| High hip | Units: in, cm |
| Hips | Units: in, cm |
Formula
Classification follows the FFIT system (Lee, Istook & Nam, 2007), using the differences bust − hips, hips − bust, bust − waist, hips − waist and the high-hip ÷ waist ratioWorked example
Inputs — Bust: 36 in; Waist: 28 in; High hip: 34 in; Hips: 38 in.
Results — Body shape = Hourglass; Waist-to-hip ratio = 0.74.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know my body shape?
Compare your bust, waist and hips: similar bust and hips with a defined waist is an hourglass; hips wider than bust is a triangle; bust wider than hips is an inverted triangle.
Which bikini suits a pear (triangle) shape?
Tops with detail, ruffles or bright colours draw the eye up; simple, darker bottoms balance the hips.
Which swimsuit suits an inverted triangle?
Simple tops and bottoms with ties, ruffles or patterns add volume at the hips.
Sources
- Lee, J. Y., Istook, C. L., Nam, Y. J. et al. (2007) – Comparison of body shape between USA and Korean women, International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology