14 DAY TRIAL // Summer is officially here and with temperatures already reaching 100 F, any surface that's close to a water source becomes an instant magnet. However, between our swooning bodies and a wonderful day at the beach stands what may sometimes appear as the ultimate ordeal: buying the appropriate swimsuit. This can be particularly unnerving if we couldn't manage to magically coordinate our weight-loss goals in such a way as to achieve the perfect figure just in time for the hot summer days. And since that usually happens to many of us, we simply have to learn to make the most of what we have and camouflage what we don't like. Here are a few simple tips for choosing the perfect swimsuit this summer.
Before you hit the shops, it's essential to understand that the worst disservice you could do to yourself would be to buy a swimsuit that doesn't match your body shape and size or one that doesn't fit properly. Our regular dress size is only a starting point for finding the right swimsuit, and definitely not the main criterion. Swimsuit shopping is mainly done on a trial and error basis - so yes, it's all about trying on as many suits as possible. Another golden rule is to try and achieve a balance between your top and lower half, thus giving your body a proportioned look that will allow it to appear to its best advantage.
For example, if you are pear-shaped and have wide hips and a small bust, the best choice for you is a suit that draws the eyes upwards. Choose a style with a bold print or ruffle detail at the top, and which comes in a solid color from the waist downwards. "If you are top-heavy find a bathing suit that draws attention to the hip area. If your body type is straight (lacking a defined waistline), find a suit that has a pattern at the bust and hip area with a solid at the middle - again drawing the eye to the areas you feel confident about", advises fitness image consultant Lisa Avellino in an interview with WebMD.
One of this summer's trendiest cuts for swimsuits is the V-neck halter suit, which, experts say, is favorable for almost any figure, irrespective of how full it is. "A plunging V neck, even one a little lower than you think is appropriate, really draws attention upward to your face, to your bosom and to your neckline - and that's what people see first and the most", another stylist advises, adding that "almost anyone can pull off the look". Check out the suit's bra insert carefully, and just try on as many suits as you feel it's necessary until you manage to find the right one.