Best Bathing Suits for Your Body Type

Summer means slipping into that bikini or bathing suit to make trips to the beach or pool. Everyone wants to wear a bathing suit that flatters. Bring out your best assets by selecting the best bathing suit for your particular body type.

Most people have the same body type throughout their lives, but if you had a baby you might carry more weight around your middle.

Some curvy or hourglass shaped women become more "rectangular" shaped after having children until they tone up and lose weight.

Pear shapes typically can't change their body shape. Even after losing weight they still have smaller upper bodies and much larger hips - just not as large as before they lost weight.

If you aren't sure of your body type here's a quick and simple way to figure it out:

1. Pear-shaped women usually lose weight in their upper body first. They carry most of their fat in their butt and thigh areas but have smaller upper bodies.
2. Women with large chests often wear a larger size top but may be athletic and slim below the waist.
3. Apple shapes carry more weight in their mid-section.
4. Petite women have small chests as well as slim legs and hips.
5. Curvy women have large breasts and hips but slimmer waist lines.

Here's the best style for your shape.

1. Pear shapes should wear bathing suits that draw people's attention toward their upper bodies and away from their large hips. Try horizontal shaped top to make the upper body look larger. Select swim suits with corset detailing or ruffles to highlight, again, the upper body. Avoid boy shorts.
2. Women with large chests can choose a top that is adjustable. Halter tops look great as they tie in the back and provide a lift. Avoid the tankinis with high necklines as they make the upper body seem bigger. Make sure your straps are sturdy peek-a-boo accidents.
3. Apple shapes should go with the V-neck swim suits that are most flattering. Camouflage your problem middle area with tiered tankini and ruffles. Select the empire waist styles.
4. Petite women will want to go with push-up tops. Don't wear the bandeau tops that flatten you like a pancake. Look for a more triangular appearance for the upper body. Feel free to wear bikinis with patterns, poka dots and flowers.
5. Curvy women may opt for suits with strong halter straps and underwires. If you choose a two-piece, opt for one without patterns. Keep the color the same for the top and bottom. Black is a slimming color.
Now that you know your shape, it's time to go shopping. You dont have to lose 10 pounds on a bikini diet -- just pick the right suit for your type!