Ready or not, swimsuit season is upon us yet again. Unless you want to sweat in all the wrong places, all possibility of layering will now be replaced with stripping down to as little as possible. Which brings us to one big UGH: Swimsuit shopping.
Choosing the right bathing suit for your body doesn’t have to make you lose it, though—or so says expert Aimee Heenan, owner of Melmira Bra & Swimsuits.
To help make this uniquely sweat-inducing shopping experience easy, she shares all the info you’ll need when investing in a swimsuit (or three or five). The key, of course: Your body type. Do you know how to dress for your body type? Depending on whether you’re Petite, Pear-Shaped, Curvy or Tall, you should be looking for different details in a flattering suit. So take a deep breath, find your type below, and follow the tips. For each body type, we’ll reveal what’s new and fabulous in swimwear for 2015.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BATHING SUIT FOR YOUR BODY
1. I’M PETITE Less is more when you’re on the smaller side. Avoid anything extra in your suit, be it fabric or detailing. If you like prints, keep them small and simple. Spaghetti straps and bandeaus matched with low rise bottoms are your perfect fit. Staying within the pastel or softer colour range is most complimentary. 
Beach Riot Two Piece from Free People $177 River Island Deep V Balconette from ASOS $66.00
2. I’M PEAR-SHAPED For you, it’s all about balance. Scoop, tank and square necklines paired with a heightened leg will visually balance out your curves. Avoid belts and horizontal detailing around the waist. Instead, focus on geometric patterns—in a one-piece or a two. They will naturally equalize your shape. Check out Filosofia Swimwear, a Canadian label. It’s a line of swimwear that’s all about accenting and embracing your curves. And that’s something we’re always down for. Plus, many of their suits are really affordable. Again, down for that. 
Filosofia Swimwear Separates from $35 – $55
3. I’M CURVY Geometrics and colour blocking or ombre design are the best options for a fuller figure. You want to keep the eyes up on your top half, so a plunge neckline or bandeau is your best bet. Keep in mind that any waist syncing detail, like a sash or a surplus will accentuate curves and add femininity to a full figure. Try and avoid boxy and blunt square necklines. Beacha, which has reinvented the design of the one piece, is a go-to swimwear spot for all body types, but is especially helpful for those of us with curves. These suits will definitely wow while making you feel free, feminine and stylish. 
Shan from Melmira Bra & Swimsuit $310 Beacha Collection from $85 – $120
4. I’M TALL Invest in brands that design swimsuits for taller women because they are built for you. Solid one piece suits with plunging necklines and heightened leg lines will accentuate your curves while keeping you covered as you move. Tankinis are another really great option for your height. Keep the details to the top, and match with a solid, bikini bottom. This look is flattering and fun, particularly if you’re over 5’8. 
Karla Colletto from Melmira Bra & Swimsuits $285 Colour Block One Piece from Joe Fresh $29
THE COVER-UP
Once you’ve decided on your suit, you’ll want to pair it with the right accessories. Investing in the right cover-up will not only take the stress out of any summer side adventure, but take you from the beach to home in one fluid step. Some favourites for this boho-inspired season are: 
Embroidered Waves Caftan from Anthropologie $297 Mint Embroidered Kimono from Miss Selfridge $150 ZnO Island Tunic Dress from Coolibar $89.50
So what do you think? Are you ready to dive in?
