With all the beautiful weather over the last week, I think we can now safely say that Summer is upon us. However with hot weather and summer holidays comes the annual search for the perfect swimsuit, and this is something that has already begun for most us. This also means that most of us will have all of their insecurities and problem areas highlighted and magnified in their head straight away, as wearing your swimsuit for the first time can be very daunting and even down right scary! While finding the perfect swimwear for you can often seem depressing, it is possible to find the perfect swimsuit for your body shape – armed with the right information – and that is what we are going to give you today.

The variety of designs and styles available in designer collections and on the high street is so huge these days that it really is a challenge and nearly as hard as finding the perfect pair of jeans! Swimwear comes in different styles for different body shapes so make sure you take a look through each of the styles we showcase below to see exactly what type of swimwear you need to be packing this year in your suitcase…

Swimwear Guide

The One-Piece

The one piece used to have a real stigma associated with it and it was only for old and/or sensible women. However we have come a long way since then so cast away those doubts because this seasons one pieces are seriously sexy. A one piece swimsuit is definitely THE best solution for hiding a stomach problem area and will give you confidence the first time you step out on the beach this year. Newer styles also have built in corsets that slim the waist, push up bust areas in order to give you a lift as well as many other secret features in order to make you look the best you possibly can. In terms of styles look for diagonal lines, prints and obviously black versions in order to give a slimming effect.

One-Piece Cut-Outs

These are exactly the same idea as a one piece but it is definitely even more sexy and a younger fashionable take on the classic look. These are for women who are slightly more confident in their appearance because they are just as small as rocking a bikini and in fact can provide even more areas which you can bulge out of. When you pull them off however they are real show stoppers and you will not fail to have people looking at you and admiring. These are the models and designers choice at the moment as they are featured in all advertising campaigns and had a major presence in Sports Illustrated’s most recent swimwear issue.

Tankinis

For those women who prefer the feel of a bikini but are still body conscious or pear shaped should consider a tankini. The top is longer, giving the impression of a one-piece but without the restriction. The great thing about the top is that it will just skim over your widest part unlike a bikini which really does put everything on show. The tankini is also a great option to hide a bigger bust; wearing a dark coloured top and a light coloured eye-catching bottom draws attention away from the chest.

Bandeau Styles

The bandeau styles are perfect for boosting smaller busts and petite frames, especially if mixed with lots of ruffle detailing. Ruffle and pleat detailing not only hits the whole Grecian and romance trends, but also draws attention away from a small bust whilst making it appear fuller at the same time. Plus bandeau styles are seriously cute, which is perfect if you are a true girly girl.

Athletic Styles

Luckily for those that are hard core gym goers and have that slim long athletic body, you can go for pretty much ANY style you want. You will look like you have just stepped from the cover of a magazine and can feel confident this summer with whatever you choose. A word of advice, if you have broad shoulders then look to balance out your bottom half by buying a pair of bottoms that have detailing which adds volume – again look for ruffles or pleating.

Two Pieces/Halter Neck

Wide hips and being unhappy about your thighs are 2 common problems for most women. The trick here is to try and take attention away from your bottom half by enhancing your top instead. Wear push ups, halters, and padded bras, anything that will draw eyes to the top half. Pear shapes should go for tie side bikinis- you don’t want ruffles or pleats this time because they will add bulk to your hips. Add a halter neck top to balance out your bottom half.