Nothing gets me motivated for bikini season like flipping my calendar over to May. The distant smell of sunscreen, ocean and barbeque are nearing, which means it’s time to stock up on fresh new swimwear. It also means I’ll be barraged with dozens of questions from panic stricken friends… What bathing suit is right for me? Should I go trendy or classic?

Well friends, hold your breath because I have you covered with these easy tips for picking the right swimsuit for your body along with my selections for the season’s hottest suits.

Here, I’ll go over which cuts are flattering for your body shape and have listed my favorite suits for each type…

If you’re athletic or boy-shaped… Choose a suit with details at the bust such as ruffles, bows or side ties to add curves. Girly prints and strapless numbers with skimpier cut bottoms also work well for this shape.

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From Left
Zimmermann Lyre Lyre Bikini
Free People Nicole Bikini
L*Space Beverly Bikini

If you’re petite or flat chested… Go for slim cuts, bigger prints or vertical stripes to add height and size. If you prefer suits with embellishment, err on the side of small and go for daintier accents.

From Left
Shimmi Star Print Bikini
Emilio Pucci Bandeau Bikini
Bronzette Bandeau Bikini
Not Pictured: J. Crew Seersucker One-piece

If you’re pear shaped… Pick a suit with high-cut bottoms and a low-v neckline, such as a string bikini. Also darker colored bottoms with lighter shaded or printed tops work wonders by drawing the eye upwards.

From Left
3.1 Phillip Lim Triangle Bikini
TopShop Military Bikini
We Are Handsome Phoenix Bikini

If you’re tall or lanky… Get a swimsuit with some ruffle or bow details to create the illusion of curves. Horizontal stripes and booty-shorts work well too.

From Left
Topshop Crochet Bikini
Chloe Scalloped Bikini
Topshop Stripe Bandeau Bikini

If you’re curvy or have a little pooch… Opt for a suit with ruched details and a deep-v neckline. Wide straps or darker side panel details will also help slim you down! Otherwise, small prints are great since they work well to camouflage.

From Left
J. Crew Tulle Underwire One-piece
Topshop Meadow One-piece
Insight One-piece

If you’re really busty… Patterned bikinis are the way to go. Just make sure you grab a suit with underwire or a thick band below the bust to ensure support. No need to give fellow sunbathers an impromptu peep show.

From Left
Eberjay Can Can Sophie Bikini
Topshop Purple Meadow Bikini
Becca Halter Bikini

If you have an hourglass figure… Plunging necklines and tie sides will flatter your figure best. But, luckily for you, any style is a go (you can thank your mother for that)!

From Left
Tori Praver Iman Bikini 
Missoni Mare California Crochet Bikini
Miu Miu Halterneck Swimsuit

I hope this bathing suit guide helps you find the perfect suit for the summer!

Which bathing suit style is your favorite?

XO Lauren