Five Ways to Rock Your Swimsuit

Trust me, I know how stressful it can be getting into a swimsuit for the first time for the summer and heading over to the pool, knowing I should have spent a little more time at the gym and at least swiped on some sunless tanning lotion. Whether you are heading to the pool or beach to hang out with friends during a summer barbecue or going to the pool with the sole purpose of laying out and relaxing (with sunscreen of course!) there are five easy ways you can rock your swimsuit and feel great. Here are some easy style tips next time you throw on that bathing suit:

1. Add some accessories

Don't feel comfortable quite yet in your bathing suit? Create a diversion by adding some accessories before heading out. A large beach hat will draw attention away from your suit, and throwing on a simple cover-up like a romper or sarong will allow you to hang out in your suit without being self-conscious. Of course, sunglasses are an amazing accessory for any day in the water.

2. Find a great fitting suit

Whether you purchase a bikini, tankini or one piece, the fit will make or break the look. Make sure there is coverage in all the right areas, and offers support if you need it. Try on plenty of sizes to make sure you find the best fitting style.

3. Add some color

Since no one likes to debut their bathing suit with pasty white skin, apply some sunless tanning lotion to the body a day or two before heading to the pool so there is one less worry on your mind. To ensure ideal coverage, shower and exfoliate the skin and then apply your lotion. If you are nervous about tanning lotion, choose a formula that gradually darkens over time, allowing you to determine your ideal skin shade. Remember, sunless lotion does not protect the skin from burning, so be sure to add some SPF before laying out.

4. Rock your style!

Purchasing a bathing suit is like buying any other article of clothing. One way to feel more comfortable in your suit is to find one that features your personal style, and don't buy something you don't love.

5. Cover trouble spots

There are plenty of suit styles to help cover trouble spots if you have them. If you want to minimize the stomach, look for a suit that has ruching over the midsection or has a pattern to camouflage the area. If you want to elongate the legs, choose bikini bottoms or one piece suit that features a high cut on the leg. Lastly, make your torso appear longer by finding a one piece that has a plunging neckline.