One of the most enjoyable parts of getting ready for a summer holiday or upcoming trip is shopping for a new bikini. Regardless of how many you already own, there’s always a spot for one more.

If you’re like me, you might just grab the first attractive bikini you see, rather than something that suits you best. That’s why I decided to visit luxury swimwear specialists Biondi Boutique in London’s South Kensington to learn more about finding the perfect bikini for your body shape and skin tone, so you can look fabulous on your next vacation.

Biondi Boutique was founded by Claudine Davies in 2005, inspired by Brazil’s bold beach culture. By 2015, they launched their second Biondi collection, designed by the talented Aliya, who welcomed me at the boutique. All their swimwear focuses on a “shape first” design, ensuring excellent fit and comfort without compromising on style. The Biondi collection is influenced by high fashion but favors bright colors, bold patterns, and timeless shapes.

Aliya shared some fantastic tips on selecting the right bikini for different bodies, skin tones, and preferences. Here are a few highlights:

Don’t cover up the parts you don’t like: It might seem daunting to show off your body on the beach, but using too much material to hide certain areas can actually highlight them more. Instead, choose a bikini that flatters those areas with the right cut and shape. For instance, high-cut bikini bottoms at Biondi create a lovely curvy shape despite appearing intimidating on the rack. Plus, there are plenty of gorgeous kaftans and cover-ups if you want a plan B.

Support is key: For those with larger busts, hidden support and subtle under-wiring are crucial. While many bikinis designed for bigger busts can look overly structured, Biondi Boutique offers styles that celebrate your figure without feeling restrictive. Personally, I dislike feeling like I’m wearing a tight bra at the beach, so I appreciated the delicate, pretty options available.

Accentuate what you’ve got: If you have a smaller bust, triangular bikinis are ideal as they require less support and can help balance your figure. Bandeaus work well for athletic builds but ensure a snug fit to avoid gaping. Don’t shy away from padding if you need an extra boost; many bikinis have slots for discreet pads.

Customize for the perfect fit: A standout feature at Biondi is their customizable bikini tops with adjustable straps and cups. Given the variety of body types, it’s rare to find a great fit straight off the shelf, so this customization is a huge plus. Sometimes, simple adjustments can transform a bikini, giving you flexibility and saving space in your luggage.

Choose flattering colors: The right color can make a big difference. For those with pale skin, warm hues like reds and pinks or jewel tones such as greens and purples are more flattering than nude shades that can wash you out. If you have darker skin, you can rock brighter, bolder colors like yellows and oranges.

Trust the experts: Feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious on the beach is the last thing you want when trying to have fun. That’s why it’s worth getting a professional fitting to ensure you’re wearing the right size. At Biondi, you can walk in without an appointment and the staff will help you find the best size, color, and shape to suit you.

Do you enjoy shopping for a new bikini before your holiday, or do you find it a challenging task?