Finding the Right Swimsuit for Your Body Type

Last week I provided some tips and tricks for swimsuit shopping. Summer and sunshine are getting closer and closer and I'm sure many of you are excited for the sun, like I am, after the brutal winter. A beach trip or dip in the outdoor pool is right around the corner! So in addition to reminding you to wear sunscreen, this week I want to provide some quick hit tips on finding the best swimsuit size and fit for your body shape. I hope my information will make shopping for a swimsuit a bit easier for you.

Overall, not all styles will look the same on every body type. For example, I'm a petite girl with broad shoulders and I've learned through my research that strapless suits are not the best look for me. Nevertheless, I've found other styles that are great and more flattering. Again this post is for the ladies. Come on guys you have it so easy when it come to this stuff!

Below are some tips for different body types. You can be a combination of the body types below so feel free to mix and match:

• Petite: If you are smaller on top, you can create more volume to your chest with ruffles, frills, bold prints and embellishments. And of course a little padding goes a long way! A high cut on the leg of swimsuit can also make you look taller.
• Athletic: You'll want to go more feminine in your suit choice and create the illusion of curves. And if you have broad shoulders a halter can help give more balance with your dimensions. Choose a smaller bottom to add curves, embellishments, like ties at the hip and a tapered-back bottom can do the trick.
• Straight: Small bikinis work for your because of your lean build and if you want to create curves just like for petite ladies embellishments on top and bottom help.
• Pear: You can draw people's attention up with a plunging neckline or an eye-catching top. To balance proportions, keep your bottoms simple and go for a fairly high cut full coverage brief or even skirted bottom.
• Large Bust: Choose suits that help support your frame - suits with underwire, molded cups or banded halters. A v-neck swimsuit can make the body seem longer.
• Curvy: The goal with a suit if you have curves is to complement your figure will keeping everything in place. Solid or small prints are good for not distorting your proportions.
• Womanly Waist: One pieces are great here for more coverage. Also you can draw attention away from your middle with a low cut top or high cut leg.

As one final reminder, don't forget to cover those uncovered spots with sunblock!