I've never really liked swimwear because I've never been one of those lucky, hair-free people. Nor have I ever been skinny. Not fat, but definitely not skinny. So for me, it's either slightly longer shorts or a short, floaty cover-up dress/top sort of thing.
I did see someone in short shorts the other day, who really shouldn't have been wearing them, even though she probably was young enough. She just wasn't slim enough. From behind, you could see the bottom of her buttocks poking out. Not good. I would say, if this doesn't apply to you, go for it!