If you are anything like me you will be dreading pulling out last summer's swimsuit through fear you will look dreadful in it. Furthermore, you will probably wish that you'd used those winter months more effectively by visiting the gym instead of sitting on the couch, watching 'Friends' reruns. Fear not, thanks to the miracles of modern fashion, you can look fantastic instantly, whatever your shape or size.

Control those curves
The average size woman in the UK is a size 14-16, but thanks to Kelly Brooke, we women can embrace our curves. Instead of hiding under t-shirts and boring black bathing suits, make the most of your curves. When shopping for a new swimsuit, look for ones with a control panel in the tummy and adequate support for your breasts; halter necks are a great trendy option which flatter and support even the largest of bust while giving a sexy cleavage. Try a blue or purple suit or bikini rather than black as they are slimming without it being obvious that you are trying to disguise flaws. John Lewis and Ultimo are names to look for if you want the effect of 'slimming down' without actually moving a muscle.

Dare to be a pear
A pear shaped body can be the most difficult shape to shop for, as many stores still don't appreciate that the average UK woman has a hip area that is comparatively large in relation to her waist and bust. Thankfully, some stores are starting to introduce mix and match lines so you are guaranteed a perfect fit everywhere, every time. To make the most of your pear shaped figure on the beach, avoid boy-cut shorts and thin straps as these emphasise hips and imperfections. Instead, wear halter necks and high cut shorts. The halter neck will draw attention from your hips and improve your bust, giving an overall effect of sex kitten. Matalan and Marks and Spencer's have excellent mix and match lines, and Monsoon offer a range of stunning halter necks, so these places are a safe bet if you are pear shaped.

Treats for petites
If you're petite, the good news is you can wear almost anything. This season's 'boy style' swimsuits will look fantastic on you as they add curves at the waist; when paired with a feminine halter neck or a printed bandeau top, you will have created curves before you know it. Oasis and Dorothy Perkins have some of the best boy cut shorts around, so get yourself down there. Matalan also has a good range if you want an inexpensive option. Just avoid an all in one suit, as it will make your torso look square.

Don't make a beach boob
If you have a petite frame coupled with a large chest, wear halter necks to provide added support whilst creating that superbly feminine look. You are lucky as you have one of the few body shapes that can carry off patterns on your lower half; however, patterns should be avoided on top as they will draw the eye to this area and make you look top-heavy and saggy. Medium cut legs will lengthen your pins, but avoid too high a cut as they can widen hips. Again, anywhere that offers 'mix and match' is a safe bet, but other than that Miss Selfridges do a great range that caters specifically for your body shape.

Enjoy...
So now that you know that you've got the best swimsuit for your shape, get out and enjoy the sunshine. Just remember to slather on the sunscreen. A nice tan is slimming; a nasty burn is not. Apply a SPF15 or more 20 minutes before sun exposure and you'll be brown in no time. For an over all beautiful slim effect, just remember the two key points: stand tall and put your shoulders back. Instant inch loss with none of the hard work....Now go and enjoy that sunshine, you sexy thing!

- Article by Sarah Davies