Shopping with the Pro: Choose the Right Swimsuit for Your Shape

The pools have been cleaned and the beaches have been combed, even the Slip n' Slide is ready. Summer is here and with it, a new crop of swimsuits. It's never easy to head into the dressing room with the fluorescent lights and begin the dreaded process of finding this year's suit. But with the right tips on what's new and what works well on your body there's simply no reason to dread the task. Read on!

Small Bust A two-piece style works well here because you can pair a more miniscule top with a larger-sized bottom. Look for swimsuits that have some padding in them; even if you're not looking to go up a cup size a lightly padded top will give you a smoothed out form. If a tankini (a two-piece with a full-length top) is more your speed then try something with a halter top which creates the illusion of a larger bust.

Large Bust It was much easier for the beach bunnies on BayWatch to pull off this look then it is for the average girl at the local pool; but the swimsuit companies have come a long way in addressing the issue of curvy chicks who don't want to give the beach a show, but aren't looking to be oppressively covered up. Look for suits that are sized by the cup (D,DD, etc.) and have underwire support. And as with any body type, remember that a trend is only cute on the right body; more important than following trends is maximizing your own assets. Translation: the triangle-top bikini is not for you, honey. Side coverage is super important for you, both for appearance's sake as well as for your own comfort. So look for bandau or halter tops.

Boyish Shape Got a ladylike nature but the hips of a guy? Soften those angles with floral prints or little details like ruffles. A halter top bikini or plunging neck one piece works well. Steer clear of overly sporty styles.

Plus Size Zaftig girls should eschew large prints; a smaller pattern has a minimizing effect. Also, seek a high Lycra content which will offer extra support, keeping your girls where you need them and stamping out jiggle. Color block suits (especially those with the eye-catching colors on top) can also flatter.

Pear Shape The key here is obviously to draw the eye up. Look for pretty details on the bustline like embroidery or beading. South of the border stay with simple, darker hues and be sure you've got a bottom with a comfortable fit. Few things are less attractive than an ill-fitting piece of clothing clinging to your least favorite body part!

Maternity Remember: it's only nine months, so making a large investment in a suit at this time doesn't really make sense-unless it's the only thing you can think of that will bosst your body confidence enough to make the beach sound palatable. But most mammas-to-be should look for a well priced suit from retailers like Target who cater to the expecting, without expecting tons of cash. Or, if you've got a shape you normally love to show off, do the same with that beautiful baby belly and rock a bikini. The rule is if you wouldn't wear a bikini pre-pregnancy, don't do it now.

Alisa Neely is an award-winning stylist and personal shopper.

For more info on how to spend less, get more and sweeten your life keep exploring all the info, updates, deals and coupons on RedPlum!

Related Articles:

See-Worthy Totes of the Season

Summer Denim? What to Wear