Style & beauty - December 2007

Beach Babe

For some, summer means endless days on the beach in your favourite bikini. For others (a very large number of the female population), summer brings dread and despair because you have to bear your 'not-a-size-10' body in public.

If you don't possess a perfect bikini body, do not despair. You do not have to spend the days hiding under caftans and not venturing near the water.

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Every woman can look her best in swimwear if you know how and what to buy.

By following my swimwear tips below you will be able to bare your body in public with confidence and style.

Big Bust: Underwire, halter necks and racer backs all offer support and lift a bigger bust and minimise bust size. A full-cup halter with wide band under the bust will hold you in and give you a lovely shape.

Flabby Tummy: Tone down the tummy with a well-cut one-piece or tankini. In bold patterns these will hide lumps and bumps and give you coverage in the tummy area. Vertical stripes are slimming and lengthen tummy.

Baku

Short Legs: Plunging necklines will lengthen and slim the torso while high cut sides lengthen legs.

Pear Shape: For a large bottom, sporty bottoms and flirty skirts will work, but make sure they are in the latest modern designs. Detail on the top of a suit will draw attention away from your bottom half and boy shorts and skirted bottoms provide more coverage than bikini briefs.

No Waist: Play with patterns to add shape in the right places. A cut-away suit gives the illusion of curves and a mix of horizontal and diagonal stripes will help fill you out. Hint: asymmetrical patterns enhance curves

No Bust: Padded bras, interesting patterns and tie-in-the-middle tops which you can pull in to help enhance the cleavage are your best options

Jets

How to buy swimwear

• Golden Rule: Understand your body shape before you shop and ONLY try on swimwear that suits your figure.
  
  
• Don't shop alone: Take a trusted friend who'll give you honest advice.
  
  
• It's only a number: Don't worry about the number on the tag - designer sizing can change considerably and it's how it looks that is important.
  
  
• Go for separates: Separates are versatile and give you the chance to mix and match and choose tops and bottoms to suit your shape.
  
  
• G-Strings please: Wear a G-string when trying on swimwear as underwear can detract from look and fit of the suit.
  
  
• Self tan: Use a self-tanner before you go shopping so that you feel and look better when trying on swimwear.
  
  

Lisa Ho
• Take your time: The biggest mistake you can make is rushing - spend the time to try lots of options and colours.
  
  
• Fit and comfort: Fit and how it feels on your body are the most important rules of thumb. If you're not comfortable and the fit isn't perfect for you then people will notice you for all the wrong reasons.
  
  
• Beach babe: Hit the beach with confidence and a smile!

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