How to Choose a Flattering Swimsuit

If you grab the largest towel or T-shirt you can find when you're heading to the pool or if you cringe when someone mentions the word "swimsuit," it's time to look for a swimsuit that flatters your figure. Whether you're too thin or have bumps and bulges to hide, slimming and enhancing swimwear is everywhere. You just have to know where to look for it.

Choosing a Flattering Swimsuit:

1. Color between the lines. The simplest way to hide problem areas and accentuate your best features is to pick a suit in a color or color scheme that looks great on you. For example, if you want to minimize a large bust, choose a bathing suit that has a dark top and a lighter bottom. If you're larger on the bottom, wear a suit with a lighter color on top or wear a dark, solid color. Whether you are choosing a one-piece or two-piece suit, keep in mind that lighter colors will make your body look larger, while dark colors always disguise imperfections.

2. Line up. Vertical stripes and lines can elongate your body and also make you look thinner. If you don't particularly like stripes, pick a pattern that works the same way. Polka dots and floral prints, if they are not too large, can also draw the eye away from flaws.

3. Get some support. If you have a large bust, stay away from triangle and keyhole bikini tops, which do not give you enough support or coverage. Instead, try halter tops or bathing suits that have a built-in bra or underwire cups.

4. Look for a suit with special features. Some designers offer suits made with extra fabric to slim the stomach, darts in the top of the suit to add shape, panels to smooth your hips and wider straps for women with larger busts.

5. Pick a suit that's comfortable. This may seem like common sense, but make sure that you find a suit that you'll be able to wear for at least a few hours. No matter how good a string bikini looks on you, if you're paranoid that it will come untied or ride up, you won't enjoy yourself and you won't look your best, either.

6. Choose a cover-up. If you still can't find a swimsuit you feel great in, find something to add a bit of length or flirty style. If you'd like a sporty look, try a pair of board shorts, which can be short or extend to the knee. Swim skirts add length and coverage, and they can also make your suit look more feminine. For maximum coverage, tie a pretty sarong around your waist.