Beach

Now that bikini season in the continental USA has drawn to a close, let’s take a minute to assess the do’s and don’ts of beachwear, and what better way to do this than study celebrities? You’ve likely read tips on how to suit up for your figure and this posting is a visual exercise on how to incorporate those tips into your beach fashion wardrobe.

If a style works on you, stick with it.

Kim Kardashian has an insanely curvy body and she turns to her tried and true string bikini to show it off. The adjustable straps on the triangle top are great for a heavier bust, and in general is the trusty go-to as it’s a style that works on most figures. Just make sure you get the right cup size. The string bottoms are simple, flattering, and also adjustable.  The bows on the hip are a nice little detail that magically, covers and flatters curvy hips as well as give shape to smaller hips.

Kim Kardashian sticks with a style that works. By Flickr user Mangowala

Basic black.

This bikini works really well on Kristin Cavallari, and not just because she has a great figure. Black, though basic, is chic and unfussy. The top is flattering and the ruching in the middle is a great way to emphasize a small bust. The bottoms are nicely proportioned; not too much fabric to overwhelm her hips, and the low rise lengthens the torso.  The combination of the halter strap to draw attention to the shoulders with the metallic detail on the hip gives her a nicely balanced and flattering hourglass silhouette.

Kristin Cavallari in basic black. By Flickr user tjr1000

Not feeling it? Cover up.

And, finally, if you’re just not feeling it or got a little too much sun, cover up with a gauzy, loose top. A patterned shirt will hide any wrinkles from wringing out excess water.