Swimsuit shopping doesn't have to be a nightmare. With a couple of tips, you can find the bathing suit of your dreams.

Swimsuit shopping is hard. No matter your size or shape, finding the perfect swimsuit—with just enough coverage, a decent fit and an affordable price—is sort of like searching for the Fountain of Youth. Luckily, today’s swimsuit landscape is diverse, so with these tips, you’ll find yourself looking forward to swimsuit shopping.

Dina Merulla, director of design and technical at Penningtons, and Olivia Leroux and Mark Caskenette, marketing and sales directors at Anita Canada, helped us determine what to look for when choosing the style you’ll love this season.

Plus size swimsuits for every taste

Priority No. 1: fit
“I think all women wonder, Does this fit me properly, and am I showing too much or can I push it a little more?” says Merulla. “So you have to have a comfortable fit that stays in place.” Remember, swimsuits aren’t just for lounging. If you plan to be active or actually swim in your suit, you want to make sure that nothing is pinching, riding up or spilling out.

The most flattering swimsuit styles for every body

Leroux and Caskenette recommend heading to a store that specializes in swimsuits, or a lingerie store that also has swimwear, to get the ideal fit. The best way to figure out if a swimsuit fits is to try it on. “When it comes to investing in a bathing suit, it’s so important to try on different styles,” says Merulla. And take the time to keep them on for longer than a minute; you never know what you’ll love.
Active swimsuit, $120, anita.com.

Universally flattering details
If you don’t know what you’re looking for just yet, a good place to start is with suits that have details that tend to flatter all shapes and sizes. For shape, Merulla recommends a tankini, which offers more coverage than a traditional two-piece but is more customizable than an one-piece.

Also consider colour blocking and panelling (which can give you a defined shape), necklines that show a bit of cleavage (to flaunt your curves) and styles that offer support (whether that means a built-in bra top or shapewear technology on the bottom).

The most flattering swimsuits for small breasts

Summer 2016 trends
This summer, Merulla, Leroux and Caskenette all agree that the tankini is the most popular style, so start your swimsuit search there. Leroux and Caskenette also point to bright colour palettes, with an emphasis on reds and purples, while Merulla recommends tropical prints.

The No. 1 swimsuit trend for this summer? Comfort. “No matter their size, people really like being comfortable,” says Merulla. “You want to look good and feel good in your swimwear.” Regardless of the style, colour or pattern you pick, make sure it’s comfortable.




Sea printed tankini top, $60, penningtons.com. 

What to look for if you…

Want more coverage on bottom
Forget string bikinis and bottoms that barely cover your butt. Hipsters, boy shorts, skirtinis and even board shorts are all great options for the woman who prefers a full-coverage bottom. Look for adjustable ruching for a completely tailored fit.

Have a larger bust
The key with a larger bust isn’t necessarily to conceal—it’s about the right fit. Shop for styles that are sized like bras. Built-in support will ensure that your swimsuit fits and your bust stays secure—even if you do choose a plunging neckline.

The best swimsuit brands for busty women

Want to fake curves
If you don’t have a defined waist, you can fake curves with your swimsuit. Panelling, ruching and colour blocking on one-pieces can all create the illusion of a more sculpted waist. To enhance a smaller bust, a swimsuit top with padding or push-up technology is always an option; if you’re set on a two-piece, try pairing a bright colour or print on top with a more neutral or muted bottom to make sure the attention is on your chest.