(From a 30‑Year Swimwear Family)
Shopping for a swimsuit can feel intimidating — especially online. Too tight, too loose, spillage, bad fabrics… we’ve heard it all. But after more than 30 years of fitting women in Victoria, BC, our family has learned that finding a truly great swimsuit isn’t about chasing trends or squeezing into a size — it’s about understanding fit and what helps women feel their best.
The good news? Once you know what to look for, finding a swimsuit you love becomes so much easier. These are the same principles we’ve used in our studio and retail stores for decades. We’ve helped thousands of customers in person, and now we can share that knowledge with women everywhere.
Here are the secrets to getting it right.
1. Take Your Measurements (They Matter More Than the Tag)
When shopping for swimwear online, your measuring tape is your most powerful tool. Bust, waist, and hip measurements will always give you a more accurate fit than guessing based on your usual size.
Every brand fits differently — as most of us know now, there is no industry standard. Taking a few minutes to measure yourself can save you time, money, and the frustration of returns.
Pro tip:
If you’re between sizes, you typically want to go smaller — and waist isn’t as important as bust and hip. Better yet, just reach out to us with your height and measurements and we will sort you out.
2. Ask for Help — That’s What We’re Here For
One of the biggest advantages of shopping small is access to real humans who truly care about how things fit.
If you have questions — about sizing, support, coverage, or which style might work best for your body — email us. Even better, book a video chat with us! We have the technology, why not use it?
We’ll walk through your measurements, talk about what you’re looking for, and help you choose a suit that feels right for you. It’s like having a fitting room expert in your living room.
3. Swimwear Should Fit Snug (Yes, Really)
This is one of the most common mistakes we see: choosing a swimsuit that feels loose or comfy when you first put it on.
All swimwear relaxes in water. A suit that fits snug when dry will soften and mold to your body once worn. A loose suit, on the other hand, won’t support you, won’t flatter, and will look like a balloon in the hot tub.
Ola Swimwear does not bag out over time; however, if it’s uncomfortable at all, it’s too small.
A properly fitting swimsuit should:
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Feel secure and supportive
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Stay in place when you move
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Not dig in or hurt anywhere
So basically nice and snug, but never too tight!
4. Choose Quality Construction and Materials (It Shows Over Time)
Not all swimwear is made to last. Cheaper suits often stretch out quickly, especially in the straps, bust, and lining. Once the elasticity goes, the fit is gone — and no amount of adjusting will bring it back.
Quality-made swimwear:
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Holds its shape season after season
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Offers better support and structure
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Feels better on the body
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Saves money long-term by lasting longer
Our suits are made in Canada using sustainable, high-quality materials, designed to move with your body and keep their shape — because fit doesn’t stop after the first wear.
5. Go Classic — Vintage‑Inspired Fits Are Timeless
Trends fade, but classic, vintage-inspired silhouettes never go out of style. These designs are especially powerful because they highlight your body — working with curves where you have them, and emphasizing them where you want a little more.
Classic swimwear:
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Flatters a wide range of body types
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Works beautifully at any age
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Feels elegant, confident, and timeless
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Won’t look dated next season
When you invest in a classic, you’re investing in confidence — not just for one summer, but for years to come.
The Bottom Line: Fit Is Everything
The perfect swimsuit isn’t about perfection — it’s about feeling supported, confident, and comfortable in your own skin.
Take your measurements. Ask for help. Choose snug, choose quality, and choose timeless design. That’s the formula we’ve trusted for over 30 years — and it’s the same one we bring to every suit we make today.
✨ Explore our Canadian-made, vintage-inspired swimwear online and let us help you find your perfect fit.