Bra sized swimsuits

[BikeRunSki]

I am thinking of getting a bra sized swimsuit, but how does it know how big my bottom is? The sizing is just "36 D" for example, not "36 D/14".

It doesn't sadly. The back sizes dictate the size of the rest of the swimsuit as far as I can tell. I wear a 30 back bra normally but my swimsuit is a 34 (worn very tight and about to be altered!) and I would say it roughly fits a size 14-16. I had a 32 before (different brand) which was roughly a 12.

Hmm.

I am a (newly measured and rather surprised) 32F and a 12/14. Also have a long body. I suspect I may be better off getting a dress sized swim suit with a shelf bra.

I'd try a bra sized one tbh as at a 12-14 you might find a 32 OK. Maybe also try a 34E one worn on the tightest hook. Most bra sized ones have a full bra back inside them so it's also very easy to take just the bra part in a little. You'll probably find the shape better than you would with a dress sized one I think

try a tankini

I want something to do lengths in. Tankiis ways ride up, but good idea.