Sunbathing beauties

While one half of the world starts dreaming of long winter coats, wooly scarves, and leather gloves, the other starts dreaming of maxi dresses, shear tops and, of course, bathing suits. The changing of the seasons is generally an exciting time for all fashion lovers as there is new inspirations, colours and styles, however for some of us heading into summer the change of seasons can be a worrying time.

For some the bathing suit season is one of fun, frivolity, and flirting. For others it is an intimidating and downright scary time, full of bathing suit dread. Oh, those mirrors! Oh, those white legs! I think everyone has felt that ping of disappointment at some time.

This experience really needn't be the case though as bathing suit styles have evolved over the years, and there are now many more options for all shapes and sizes. Thankfully designers have realised that the teeny weeny suits that grace the Giselle-type creatures roaming Brazilian beaches really do not suit us all, and variety is what the consumer is after. And, where were we all before fake tan - a god-send.

Of the new and popular styles for this summer, one-piece suits are seeing a resurgence in popularity. One-piece suits are fabulous for those of us who prefer more coverage, those who wish to actually swim in the sea, and for creating a more lithe figure. There is also some great, fashionable colours that can help create interest and guide the eye gently away from those areas you would really rather the eye not focus on. Another great way of hiding some problem areas is to try the high-waisted two-piece styles now available. Australian designer "Hotel Bondi Swim" has some good examples to check out.

In addition to one-piece suits, frilly 1950s styles are also in vogue and can do wonders for those of us less endowed in the chest. One word of warning though. Beware of looking too girlie if this is not the look you are after. Opt for a more structured style, such as nautical look, to continue to enhance cleavage but not look too poolside pretty.

Colour, colour, colour is another way to brighten up your day, and just feel good. Bathing suits are one example of fashion where you can use as much colour as you like, in as little space as possible. Bright fuchsia pinks, neon yellows, and lime greens have all featured in this seasons colour palette, as well as tangerine orange and shades of turquoise. If colour is not your style, look sophisticated and poised in blocks of black, white, blue and red, for impact and confidence.

And finally, there is the question of how many bathing suits do I need? Some say one is enough… others have 20 in their wardrobe. I say, grab as many as you can to suit all of your different moods - from playful, to wild, to quiet, to taking you to that place that you want to be. However many you have, wear your suit with confidence and a smile, and you will be sure to wow any beach or poolside crowd!