Frantically scouring the shops for the perfect bathing suit for your summer holiday? Need a bit of beachwear confidence? JOY OF COLOUR is here to show you which styles will show off your best assets and cleverly conceal the others.

Many women believe that the darker the colour of the suit, the more flattering. But that’s definitely not the case. In fact when it comes to swimwear details such as ties, shirring, prints and cut can be much more slimming than a simple black suit

Patterns and prints
When choosing patterns and designs think about your body lines. Straight bodylines will look better in geometric design while floral designs will suit curvy shapes best. The scale of the pattern must also be taken into consideration. An over the top design will overwhelm a petite woman!

Small bust
Make the most of your dainty bust line by choosing tops with built-in padded or pushed-up bras. You’ll find them stocked in all the high street stores. Triangle tops and halter necks work wonders by giving the illusion of fuller breasts

Straight up and down
Avoid solid coloured or horizontal striped one piece suits that will make you look like a bean pole. To add some illusion of curves choose patterned costumes to emphasis the bust and hipline. Embellish to your hearts content with ties, bows etc at the bust and hip line.

Broad Shoulders
Halter and square necklines will compliment your athletic build.

Wide hips
Keep away from high cut swimwear – they are at their fullest at thigh level and you’ll want to avoid emphasis of this part of your body. Instead go for something with detail above the waistline.

Short Legs
A suit that is cut high on the thigh will give the illusion of longer legs. Create a longer look by wearing a solid colour bottom with a lighter top.

Full Bust
It is worth spending a little extra on swimwear… choose bathing costumes that have under-wire or built in support.
www.bravissimo.com has some great suits. Halter neck tops provide sexy cleavage as wells offering support Opt for wide shoulder straps rather than string straps – they’ll be much more comfortable

Too much tummy
Try a control panel swim suit…. They work wonders! If you want to show off a bit of skin, why not choose a covered front suit with a revealing back?

Need to over up?
If you feel uncomfortable walking around in just your swimwear, there are lots of options to cover you up while still remaining cool. This season you will find kaftans everywhere with great embroidery detail and in all sorts of fantastic colours.

Please get in touch with Michaela Jedinak, michaela@joyofcolour.com or visit www.joyofcolour.com
to find your best personal look that suits your personality and age.

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