Plus Size Fashion Tips - How to Pick the Right Plus Size Bathing Suit

Plus Size Fashion Tips: Bathing Suits

No matter how much we plus sized gals try to put it off ... avoid it ... run away from it ... it still happens every year. What is this annual occurrence we so dread? Swimsuit season! If that phrase has set off the theme song from "Psycho" in your head, don't worry. Just check out these easy-as-pie tips on how to pick the right plus size bathing suit:

If your problem area is your Derriere ...

Choose a suit with a dark bottom. A diagonal cut at the thigh will slim your ... er, rear view. Consider a tankini or boy short style. Skirted styles are much cuter these days and far less matronly than they used to be. Choosing a suit with details or a pattern at the top will draw the eye up and away from the "buttinksi" area.

If your problem area is your Belly ...

Lycra is a belly-busting best friend. Look for a minimum of 10% to 20% Lycra on the fabric tag. Basically Lycra is like a girdle, only a lot more comfortable. Consider a suit that has a brightly-colored top and darker bottom to keep the focus above your waistline. Avoid belts or sashes, which add bulk, and instead look for a style with draping or ruching around the middle to help hide and flatten the bulge. Darker side panels and verticals stripes can help, too.

If your problem area is your Bust ....

If you're aiming to minimize your assets, consider a suit that has spandex and full coverage in the sides which will make for a slimmer profile. If your problem is that you don't get enough support, only buy suits with a built-in bra; this feature minimizes bounce to prevent the Pamela-Anderson-in-the-"Baywatch"-intro effect and provides comfortable support. Avoid straps that are too thin. A halter-cut neckline or straight, square-shaped neckline are more preferable to round-neck or v-neck styles.

If your problem area is Wide Hips ....

Again, it's all about leading the eyes of your beholders where you want them to go ... and that's up. Choose a suit that has a keyhole neck, a bold, bright print on top or contrasting stripes or straps. Ruching along the bottom will taper hips as will a high-cut leg. Avoid belted or boy short styles. The example above is a great choice if your hip area is worrisome: This stylish pick from Suit Yourself features an empire-style profile with a thin ribbon that ties just below the bust, which drapes out slightly, keeping the focus up top and away from that curvaceous area that, as the wise diva Shakira said, don't lie.

Related Reading:

If you're stumped by the fashion terms you read in hubs and articles, brush up on your style-lingo knowledge with Fashion Terms You Need to Know.

More from My Plus Size Fashion Tips Series:

How to Choose a Slimming Sweater