The Best Swimwear for Longer Torsos: Why I decided to design a ‘Medium Long’ size for Watercolors onepiece swimsuits
When it came to designing my first swimwear line, Watercolors, I wanted to shake things up in the swimwear industry. As a one piece and bikini addict, I have known for a long time that most brands work off of standard sizing versus taking a deep look into the unique needs of their customers. Swimwear is so personal and every woman wants to wear something comfortable and feel their absolute best when they put on a swimsuit. But that’s almost impossible if the swim brands out there aren’t making something that fits you well!!
I talked to a lot of friends and anybody who would listen about all things swimwear. As a travel blogger, I live in a swimsuit pretty much every day of the year. I personally have always loved one-pieces and think of them as my go-to on any vacation, pool party, or day in the sun. While everyone I chatted with agreed that one-pieces are sexy and trendy as ever, I was astounded at how many said that they had yet to find a one-piece brand that fit them really well. And many of my friends expressed that they were left out of the one-piece trend because their torsos were “just too long for one-pieces.”
I asked them all if there were any brands that made a longer torso one-piece, and no one could name a single one. (!!!!) They all said they reverted to two-pieces as the only option for them, even though they loved one pieces. I couldn’t believe that swim brands didn’t realize how much of the market they were ignoring. Every body is different, and it’s time swim brands start realizing that!
So we made Watercolors’ Medium Long size specifically designed for girls with longer torsos with the same sizing as a Medium but with some added length. Our designs are retro-inspired and high-legged, made to elongate legs and flatter torsos, no matter what length! I wanted to design a one piece that was super-comfortable and that you could spend all day in. I’ve had swimwear that rides up, is too tight, or gets salty and painful after wearing all day, and was determined to find fabrics that didn’t do that so we worked on the ground with a factory in Colombia for months designing Watercolors‘ perfect fit and material, testing each sample running around the factory, swimming in my hotel pool, and getting salty on the beach. I wanted our one pieces to be for lounging, swimming and resorting, while also perfect for running around and being active on vacation. They’re so comfy that I’ll wear mine as a bodysuit over shorts almost as often as a swimsuit!
What do I need to look out for in a one piece fit if I think my torso might be longer but I’m not sure?
Mainly look to see if the bottom of the suit rides up on you, because that might be that there’s not enough length in the body to fit well. The best piece of advice I can give to anyone shopping for a one piece is to always measure your torso, and determine your size based on that. If the size guide of the swimwear you’re buying doesn’t have a torso measurement, that’s a big red flag.
Our size guide for Watercolors has three measurements – hip, chest, and torso, and if you measure all three and take your largest measurement, that’s your size. Even if you think you know your size, you should always consult the size guide before buying online. I’ve had quite a few girls tell me they didn’t know they were a Long until they measured themselves!
If you have a longer torso, are there any specific swimsuit styles or cuts you should buy?
I think simplicity is best when it comes to one pieces for longer torsos. A high-leg, a scoop neck, and a low back can all create a gorgeous fit if it’s the right length for you. To add some uniqueness & pop, I’ve always been a huge fan of open or tied sides on one pieces, especially for longer torsos. I find that when a one piece is completely closed on the sides, it can widen the look of your torso rather than when it incorporates fun side cut outs which can help in elongating it.
I’d also recommend seeking out brands that specifically lay out a torso measurement in their size guide, and recommend looking for sizes that are specifically created for longer torsos.
Where do I find a long-torso one-piece when shopping online?
Watercolors Swim has beautiful one-piece designs, 9/10 of which are available in a Medium Long (all but the Indio). The brand just launched its first line this Spring, and each swimsuit is designed by luxury travel blogger & swimwear addict Jetset Christina (@JetsetChristina)
Alli
Great recommendations!! I’m 5’10” with a 34″ torso measurement (68″ full). I will have to browse your designs!