Evening Times: click here to return to our homepage
STYLE: Bikini blues
 
The Per Una Aztec bikini range from Marks & Spencer is sure to turn heads this summer
The Per Una Aztec bikini range from Marks & Spencer is sure to turn heads this summer
 

by Maureen Ellis

SWIMSUIT shopping registers up there as one of the most stressful times in a woman's life. Few tasks can create such panic and anxiety as finding a bathing suit that really will flaunt your best assets on the beach - and magic away any flaws.

There's no doubt about it - unless you possess a supermodel body - the prospect of baring acres of unclothed skin can be daunting. But finding the right swimsuit really doesn't have to be.

We reveal the best bikinis to suit your body shape, whatever the size of your top or bottom. Step out confidently in the sand this summer and wow on the beach.


BEST FOR: Bottom, heavy pear shapes
Draw attention away from your thigh and hips, towards your slim, upper half by looking out for a few key cuts and patterns.

Print or bright-coloured bikini tops worn with high-cut bikini bottoms in one solid block of colour will accentuate your top half.

Avoid side strings or bikini detailing on the bottoms that can draw attention to your lower half.

TRY ON FOR SIZE: Stripe twist bandeau bikini, £8, Matalan (0845 330 3330). Per Una Aztec Miami bikini top £18 and brief £12, Marks and Spencer (available June, 0845 302 1234). La Blanca zebra-print bikini top £45, and bottom £40, House of Fraser (0844 800 3728).


BEST FOR: Top-heavy apple frames
Apples need to show off their great bottoms - and take attention away from rounded or wide shoulders. In contrast to the pears, wear your prints on your bikini bottoms - and make your tops self-coloured to draw attention to your lower half.

Mix and match separates are great for your shape - as well as providing you with different looks on the beach. Square necks with wide straps are best for added support.

TRY ON FOR SIZE: Triumph Jungle swimsuit, £58 (www.triumph-international.co.uk). Kelly Brook yellow bikini top £14, and frill bottom £7, New Look (0500 454 094). Gorgeous print top £20 and bottom £10, Debenhams (08445 616161)


BEST FOR: Hourglass figures
Those with curves to flaunt should look to this season's brights and prints to show off their well-proportioned shapes.

Look for bikinis or one-pieces in solid blocks of colour such as black and white, or bright reds, blues and yellows with fun edging. Chunky jewellery and funky sarongs will help draw attention to your shape.

TRY ON FOR SIZE: Bikini top £14 and pant £12, Bhs (0845 196 0000). Black and gold bikini top £8 and bottoms £8, Dorothy Perkins (0845 121 4515). Polynesia bikini top £14 and bottoms £12, Accessorize (0870 412 9000).


BEST FOR: Sporty rectangular bodies
Add some curve appeal with this season's hottest frills and florals. Look out for bikinis with bold patterns, prints and feminine details like frills, ruching, ties, embellishments or belted bottoms. Triangle bikinis, halternecks and bandeau tops all create a more interesting shape. Avoid tankinis at all costs.

TRY ON FOR SIZE: Floozie by FrostFrench gingham-frill bikini top £16 and bottom £12, Debenhams (08445 616161). Polka dot bikini, £12 each, Warehouse (0870 122 8813). Floral print bikini top £14 and pant £12, Bhs (0845 196 0000).

Publication date 12/05/08

Travel Shop
Airport Parking
Travel Insurance
Copyright © 2008 Newsquest (Herald & Times) Limited. All Rights Reserved
Terms of Use