11 Best Bathing Suits for A Short Torso, 2026, Reviewed

Swimwear for short torsos FAQs, answered:

What swimsuit styles are most flattering for a short torso?

“Standard swimsuit fits are always going to be a trickier fit if your torso is shorter or longer than average,” explains Katie Thacker, Boux Avenue’s Buyer for Swimwear, Loungewear & Accessories. “Aside from buying a specialist petite swimsuit, look out for as much adjustment as possible.

“We would recommend fully adjustable straps to be able to help shorten the swimsuit and offer a more comfortable fit. For a glamorous and flattering fit, adjustable ruching on the side of the swimsuit will also be more forgiving — helping to shorten the swimsuit slightly and add more shape to the torso, giving the illusion of an hourglass figure.

“Don’t forget to highlight your other assets by going with a swimsuit that has a high leg cut to help elongate the legs and overall create the illusion of a longer figure.”

Are one-piece swimsuits less suitable for short torsos?

“Finding a one-piece swimsuit with a perfect fit will be tricky if your torso is shorter than average,” adds Katie. “The key styles to look for are petite options or adjustable swimsuit options — remember adjustable straps and ruching are key. If you are looking for a swimsuit specifically, then these adjustable features will help you find a better fit. If not, a bikini is the answer!”

Meet the expert:

How I choose the best bathing suits for short torsos:

I’ve spent the last three months overhauling most of our swimwear content so that we’re all fully prepared for the return of the heatwave and our summer hols. But because I already have an extensive collection of one-piece swimsuits and bikinis (some former samples, some gifted and some bought of my own accord), I consulted those first when drafting this edit — which do I reach for most when on holiday? If my suitcase got lost or stolen, which style would I miss most?

But I also quizzed members of the Glamour team with shorter mid-sections to learn which brands and styles they like most. This informed which swimwear brands I reached out to for further samples.

Of course, before shouting them out in this edit, I considered all against the following criteria:


Functionality	Does the bikini or swimsuit have adjustable straps so the fit can be tailored? Is it available in a petite length?
Design	Most importantly, is the one-piece swimsuit or bikini aesthetic? How many options do I have in terms of colour and pattern? What’s the swimsuit made of? Will it be quick-drying and not overly absorbent?
Price point	Does the swimsuit or bikini appear to be of good quality, or is it a brand I’ve praised for this before? Is the price for one item, or an entire set? Would I be willing to spend that much personally?
Delivery	How quickly would the bathing suit arrive, and what are the associated costs? How easy is the return or exchange process?

Why you can trust me:

As a girl with a short torso and a big bust, I have personally struggled to find flattering swimwear for years. So you best believe I took this work task seriously. However, for added confidence, I should mention that I’ve been reviewing fashion essentials for almost three years — this includes everyday underwear, shapewear, activewear and, of course, swimwear, whether shopping for more modest one-piece swimsuits or supportive swimwear for big busts.

But to ensure I am an authority on all things fashion, I regularly attend press launches and interview designers or brand founders, requesting answers to common FAQs. I also personally review as many new releases as possible. As a fluctuating DD/E cup, I prefer supportive, underwired designs; however, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone when compiling this edit, trialling a host of different styles from various brands, including Marks & Spencer, Bravissimo and Boux Avenue.

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