Going swimwear shopping? Arm yourself with our guide to what works on different bodies.
Apple shape

Coral Sheer Gold Embellished Kaftan, £26.24 New Look
Don't bother with bikinis, there are loads of great one piece suits that will work better on you. It's tempting to go for block colours, but actually a big splashy print does a better job of hiding bulges. Ruching and draping over the stomach is another clever trick to minimise the midriff.
If you feel very self conscious, look for a swimsuit with tummy control panels. Lots of brands incorporate them into the lining of suits now - try Speedo's Sculpture range.
If you have got great legs show them off in a slinky kaftan.
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Pear-shaped

F&F Oriental print bandeau bikini top, £8 and F&F Contrast colour bikini briefs, £5 Tesco
A good trick for pear shaped figures is to mismatch your bikini. Wear a dark colour on the bottom and a lighter, patterned top, to balance out a bottom heavy body.
Don't be tempted to hide your bum and hips in boy shorts, they make everything look bigger. High cut briefs are the best way to slip hips down.
Wear a sarong if you want a cover up. It'll make the most of a slender top half.
Straight up and down

Orange Waterfall Bikini £14.99, Internacionale
Contrary to popular belief, a skinny body doesn't make swimwear easy. If you're aiming to add curves, try a busy print or this season's ultra feminine candy colours. Skip the dark, discrete bikinis and swimsuits, they'll just shrink you.
Ruffles and frills are a good way to play up your boobs and hips, while sporty, athletic styles are best avoided — they tend to make bodies look more boyish.
A halter neck lifts a small bust, especially if you find a style with some padding (try Gap's bikinis). Wear with side tie briefs, just because you can.
Denim shorts or surfy hotpants make for the perfect cover up for a boyish figure.
Top heavy

Turquoise bikini top £32, bikini bottom £17, Simply yours
Bikinis offer better bust support than one-pieces, but make sure you're properly fitted. Shoulder straps and under wiring are your best bet, while skimpy bikini tops won't offer adequate support.
A balcony bra shape or a v-neckline are good options for you. They both stop a big bust from looking matronly.
Simple, dark bikini tops work well on big boobs, but see what suits your skin tone. Navy blues and deep reds are kind to Celtic colouring, but if you have olive or dark skin you can experiment with greens and browns.
