Buying swimwear is similar to buying jeans: it can take months, sometimes years, to find the right fit and a flattering shape and colour. Also worth bearing in mind when dressing for the beach or pool is that a greater amount of flesh will inevitably be on show.

When selecting the right swimwear, your body shape should be high on the priority list, but so too is your lifestyle. Is the swimwear for lounging by the pool or for swimming some serious fast-paced lengths? Do you prefer a one-piece or a two-piece?

Once you have decided on your individual needs, go for swimear with the minimal details that offers the maximum impact.

WHEN LIFE'S A BEACH - THE RULES

Although confidence is the key when tracking down the right swimwear, these insider tricks speak volumes too

● Frills, ruffles, draping and obviously some extra padding at the chest will give the illusion of a bigger bust.

● Sporty figures should opt for cut-away designs that add curve to a naturally straight-up-and-down shape.

● Halter-neck designs are great for fuller busts because they add support and a retro vibe.

● Accentuate narrow shoulders with strapless and one-shoulder asymmetrical designs.

● A tankini is a good middle ground for those of you who don't want to show off your midriff but still want
to wear a two-piece. But, contrary to popular belief, a tankini will accentuate your waist.

● To balance out heavy hips choose two-piece swimsuits with a dark solid colour on the bottom and a brighter one on the top.

● To disguise lumps and bumps try a swimsuit with ruching or extra folds of material. This will flatten out your tummy in no time.

● Similarly, high-cut legs and a low-cut neckline will shift the attention away from your tummy to your legs (that is, if you prefer to show off your legs!).

● If you want to highlight a specific part of your body, go for bright colours or busy patterns.

● Although super-comfy to wear, boy-shorts and 1950s' styles make the hips look wider, no matter what the colour.

● Elongate your legs with high-cut briefs and a pair of beach-friendly heels such as wedges.

● And last but by no means least, when swimwear shopping pay more attention to the fit rather than the size. Even if the swimwear is your usual size, if it looks too small, try the next size up. But note that swimsuits tend to enlarge a bit while wet, so choose carefully to avoid embarrassing swimwear moments.