Swim Top and Bottom in Different Sizes
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Yes — buying a swim top and bottom in different sizes is normal, and the size charts show why: tops are sized to the bust, bottoms to the waist and hips, and those numbers do not move in lockstep. On Summersalt’s own charts, a 36-inch bust is a size 6 top and a 44-inch hip is a size 16 bottom — ten sizes apart on the numbering, five steps on the chart.
This sits with our luxury swim capsule, beside high-waist vs high-leg bikinis, plus-size luxury swim and full-bust support. The shared idea: size each piece to the body part it covers.
What the charts say
Summersalt publishes separate charts for one-pieces, bikini tops and bikini bottoms. Tops are sized by bust only; bottoms by waist and two hip measurements. Here are three rows from those charts (inches):
| Size | Top: bust | Bottom: waist | Bottom: Hip 1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 36 | 28.5 | 36.5 |
| 10 | 40 | 31.5 | 39.5 |
| 16 | 46 | 36 | 44 |
Read across: a 36-inch bust lands in the size 6 top row. A 44-inch Hip 1 lands in the size 16 bottom row. Neither is wrong; they are two different measurements being asked two different questions.
The same split shows up in a single brand chart. On La Blanca’s size chart (as printed on its Amazon listings), a 36-inch bust is a size 10 and a 44-inch hip is a size 16 — six sizes apart on the numbering inside one chart.
How to measure, the Summersalt way
- Bust: around the fullest part, after a deep breath in and out so the tape is neither tight nor loose.
- Waist: the narrowest part.
- Hip 1: the circumference of the hips six inches up from the crotch.
- Hip 2: stand with your feet together and measure around the point of the hip level with the crotch.
Summersalt’s sizing page adds a brand rule: between sizes, size down, because suits should fit very snugly when dry (Summersalt product and sizing). That is one brand’s fit philosophy, not a universal law — read each brand’s own chart and note, because a size 10 is not the same in every suit.
Where mixing works, and how to spot a mixable listing
Separates are built for this. Summersalt’s own separates page says swimwear separates are especially popular for people who prefer different sizes for tops and bottoms. On Amazon, look for listing language like “top only” or “bottom sold separately.” A boxed set may carry one size for both pieces, so check the size selector before you assume.
Tempt Me Twist Bandeau Bikini Top
A black twist-front bandeau sold as a top only, with removable straps so it can be worn strapless or with straps. Sizes run from XXS through 22 Plus, and the chart sizes it by bust and waist — no hip measurement involved.
- Best for: Strapless days and anyone whose bottom size is a different number
- Pair with: Any bikini bottom, including the La Blanca below
- Fit note: Reviewers on the listing are split on the back clasp: Amazon’s summary lists 14 of 26 durability mentions as negative, and one reviewer says a Small was too tight even after following the chart.
La Blanca Scoop-Front Hipster Bikini Bottom
A high-cut, hip-hugging bottom with cheeky rear coverage, shown in the Multi//Crystal Cove print. La Blanca’s size chart lists waist and hip for every size, from 2 through 22 Plus, so it pairs with a top sized separately.
- Best for: Hip-and-leg-line days with a top in a different size
- Pair with: A solid top such as the black bandeau above
- Fit note: One reviewer on the listing says it runs small, so use the hip and waist chart rather than guessing from your top size. The listing says it usually ships within 7 to 8 days, so order early for a trip.
A simple order of operations
- Measure bust, waist and hip using the brand’s own instructions.
- Size the top to the bust row; size the bottom to the hip and waist rows.
- Pick the top and bottom separately; do not assume the same number.
- Confirm the listing lets you choose each piece’s size, not just one size for a set.
- If a brand’s note says to size down when between sizes, follow that brand’s note.
A swimsuit is two measurement problems pretending to be one. Solve them separately, and the number on the tag stops mattering.
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