If you are going south for the winter or preparing for summer, finding the perfect swimsuit can be difficult. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra money when you finally find a fabulous suit that is comfortable, compliments your figure and is guaranteed to turn heads. Inexpensive suits don’t fit well or last more than one season. Shop locally as resorts prices can be astronomical and you want to spend your leisure time having fun.

Take your measurements before you shop and use those numbers to find a correct fitting suit not the manufacturers sizes as every swimsuit is cut differently. Remember that you are looking for a style that helps balance your figure and shows your best assets while hiding troubled areas. Luckily two piece swimsuits are now sold as separates so you can create a custom fit.

If you are a swimmer opt for a one piece suit. There are many styles that offer control panels and show less tummy in a stretch fabric that don’t ride up the backside. Draping around the waist and hips also helps to conceal. The tiny designer bikinis are meant for so few and by all means wear them if and while you still can you lucky girl.

If you are smaller on top look for a top with some padding, an under-wire, or a demi-bra style which creates a great bust line. Adjustable straps around the back and shoulders are important so you can tighten it rather than have it altered. Ruffled details as well as bandeau tops work best.

If you are bigger on top you will need a suit with structure like an under wire, a shelf bra, or one with soft foam cups which will give you extra support. Halter tops provide support and look sexy. Tank or straight cut bust styles helps avoid the “spillage ” effect and looks sporty. Avoid strapless and spaghetti straps and go for wide straps which are more comfortable and don’t dig into your shoulders.

If you don’t have many curves, create them by selecting styles with a belted waist band, surplice, or draped details that come in at the waist. Solid suits with a floral waist band, embellishment, curvy patterns, solid bottoms with a print or stripe top, will all flatter your figure. Bikinis with ruffles, rings, or bows on the hips will add shape. Stay away from horizontal strips or solid colors.

If you are a plus size woman, show some skin in the right places to look and feel sexy. Sheer cover ups work well but don’t wear too much fabric or go too skimpy which tend to make you look bigger. Deep V necks are great and I love the suits with the dark panels on the sides. Avoid neon or white colored suits.

If you have a full bottom avoid frilly, skimpy cuts, boy shorts or ruffles and a lot of details on the hips. Keep detailing on top to create more volume.

Balance is always the key word no matter what size. Finding the right swimsuit  and a luscious cover up will be worth your search when it makes you look and feel glamorous.