With summer just around the corner it’s time to shift your focus to more important things: parties, swimming pools and bathing suits!
Nothing says summertime like lounging by the pool, sipping a cold drink and soaking up some sun. The only problem? You have to look good doing it. Last year’s swimsuit probably isn’t going to cut it. And though swimsuit shopping can be stressful, don’t fret. The swimwear trends for this year are vibrant, energetic and great for any skin tone.
Whether you are hosting the first party of summer or heading off for a weekend lounging poolside in Vegas, you need to make sure your pool party fashion is both trendy and flattering.

Choosing Swimwear by Shape

Unless you are a supermodel, chances are you are very concerned about the way you look in your barely-there clothing. After all, if you plan to walk around in an outfit that resembles your undergarments, you want it to flatter you in all the right places while hiding your trouble areas. Before you head off to shop for swimwear, identify the areas of your body that you are most proud of, as well as the ones that you prefer to keep to yourself.

For example, if you are well endowed on top, but are self-conscious about your tummy area, consider a one-piece suit with ruching along the stomach. If you are lacking in the bust, try looking for a swimsuit that balances your figure with a little padding or an underwire. Other tips include purchasing a swimsuit with a high-cut thigh to lengthen short legs or wearing a slimming swim-skirt with an embellished top if you’re more pear-shaped.

Choosing Swimwear by Trend

The 2012 swim season is all about pastel and neon colors. Pastel colors are great for girls who have skin with rosy pink undertones, while neon colors have a way of accentuating a dark tan. If neon makes you nervous, don’t knock it before you try it. Neon colors are incredibly flattering and aesthetically pleasing — especially in the summer sun. As for cut, the bandeau bikini top is back with avengeance this year, as is the more modest, yet seductive monokini with strategically placed cutouts and plunging necklines.

Accessorizing Your Look

When choosing accessories, be sure to avoid pricey items that could easily slip off in the water. Instead, start with a pair of affordable big-rimmed sunglasses. For your swimsuit cover-up, pick a color that is flattering and also complimentary to your swimwear. Finally, wear some cute bangles or earrings but skip the necklace which could pose a choking hazard near the water. Also, keep in mind that while flip-flops are comfortable and standard summertime apparel, a great pair of wedges in a nude color will do wonders for elongating your legs and appearing to shave pounds off your body.
For transporting your towel, snacks, sunscreen and personal items to and from the pool, choose an oversize tote in a canvas or woven vinyl. Be sure the tote matches your swimsuit and is large enough to hold your beach towel.

Poolside Make-Up

Regardless of how awesome your swimwear looks on you, nothing can ruin it faster than caked on make-up. Summertime is all about that girl-next-door look, which includes wearing minimal make-up. Fortunately, there are ways of wearing your make-up poolside without looking overdone. To start, invest in a quality facial moisturizer to keep your skin fresh and glowing. To even out your skin tone, use a tinted moisturizer in place of your foundation. Dust over it with a little pink blush and a golden bronzer. Finish off your look with water-proof mascara, a pretty pink lip gloss and a little bit of shimmer lotion on your décolletage.

With these few tips you’ll have great time at the pool or beach this summer — and you’ll look pretty fly while you’re at it. Remember to start shopping sooner rather than later. The last thing you want to do is choose a swimsuit from the leftovers no one else wanted!