Start with the band, not the straps

The Rita Longline Bikini Top (style S8142) is built to flatter fuller busts, and its longline silhouette does much of the shaping work. But the foundation of a smooth fit is the band, not the cross back straps. Before you adjust anything else, fasten the top and check that the band sits level around your ribcage. If it rides up or feels tighter than expected, the size is the first thing to revisit.

Parfait includes a specific fit tip for this style: go up one band size from your normal Parfait band size for a more comfortable fit. That guidance matters because the longline design covers more of your torso than a standard bikini top, and the side boning adds structure. A band that is too small will pull the shirred cups out of position and make the cross back straps feel tighter than they need to.

Rita S8142 at a glance

How to adjust the shirred cups and cross back straps

Once the band is sitting correctly, use these steps to fine-tune the cups and straps. The goal is a smooth line across the bust without flattening the shirred detail that gives the Rita top its feminine texture.

  1. Fasten the band on the loosest hook: This gives you room to tighten later as the 81% nylon, 19% spandex fabric relaxes with wear. Check that the longline band lies flat against your ribcage and does not dig in.
  2. Smooth the shirred cups into place: The soft contour cups provide opacity and gentle shaping. Use your hand to smooth the shirred fabric upward and outward so it sits evenly over the bust. Avoid pulling the cups down, which can distort the shirring and create a ridge under swimwear.
  3. Settle the cross back straps: The cross back straps are designed to stay securely in place on your shoulders. Once the band is set, let the straps rest naturally and check that they are not twisted. Because they cross at the back, adjust them one side at a time so the tension stays even.
  4. Check the side boning position: The side boning adds structure and support. Make sure it sits vertically along your side seam and does not poke or roll. If it does, the band size may be off—revisit the fit tip before adjusting anything else.
  5. Do a movement check: Raise your arms, roll your shoulders, and bend forward gently. The shirred cups should stay smooth against your bust, and the cross back straps should remain on your shoulders without digging. If the band rides up during this check, try a larger band size.

What the shirred cups can and cannot do

The shirred detailing on the Rita cups is both decorative and functional—it adds a feminine touch while the soft contour cups underneath provide opacity and gentle shaping. What the shirring does not do is replace a supportive band. If you find yourself pulling the cups up or the shirring bunching, the issue is usually band fit rather than the cups themselves.

The longline silhouette smooths and shapes your figure, and the side boning enhances structure. Together, these features are designed to comfortably fit and flatter fuller bust sizes. But no bikini top can correct a band that is the wrong size, so use the fit tip as your first checkpoint.

Sizing checkpoints before you adjust

  • Band size: The Rita top is available in band sizes 32, 34, 36, and 38. Remember the fit tip: go up one band size from your normal Parfait band size. If you normally wear a 34, start with a 36.
  • Cup size: Cup options include US C, D, DD, and DDD (UK C, D, DD, and E). Not every cup size is offered in every band—for example, 36 band is available in C and DD, while 38 band is available in DD and DDD. Check the variant list before ordering.
  • Strap tension: The cross back straps are not adjustable in the traditional sense, so the band size does most of the work. If the straps feel too tight, a larger band size is the likely solution.

Styling the cherry Rita top

The cherry colorway makes the Rita top a statement piece on its own. Pair it with your favorite bikini bottoms—the longline cut looks particularly balanced with mid-rise or high-waist styles that echo its vintage-inspired feel. Because the shirred cups and cross back straps are already detailed, you can keep the rest of your beach look simple: a wide-brim hat, a sheer cover-up, and flat sandals let the top stand out.

For a smoother line under a cover-up, make sure the shirred cups are smoothed flat as described above. The longline band can show through thin fabrics, so choose a cover-up with a bit of structure or a loose drape if you prefer a clean silhouette.

When the Rita top is not the right choice

The Rita Longline Bikini Top is designed for fuller busts and offers structure through side boning and a longline band. If you prefer a minimal, string-style bikini or need a top with fully adjustable straps for asymmetric shoulders, this style may not suit you. Likewise, if you are between band sizes and the fit tip does not resolve the issue, consider a different silhouette rather than forcing the adjustment.

The supplied product information does not include care instructions, so check the label on your top for washing guidance. The 81% nylon, 19% spandex blend is stretchy, but avoiding high heat will help preserve the shirred texture and the shape of the contour cups.