Here comes summer, so how do you buy a swimsuit?

So how are you going to look in the seaside holiday snaps? Photoshopped or an edifying sight just as you are in your togs? Whatever way you look at it, body exposure and shopping for swimwear for a sun holiday can be a nightmare for the less than streamlined when images that bombard us are of idealised silhouettes, of svelte, slim and leggy models in skimpy pieces all power tanned and pouty.

Current trends in swimwear reflect those in fashion with ruffles, frills, cut-outs and strategically placed lacing involved. When it comes to bikinis, “meet and greet” when the top meets the bottom has a whole new meaning, tricky when choosing what two pieces to buy – and the torso in between needs consideration. Retro high-waisted bottoms are great for midriff bulges or a boyish look worn with shorts, while asymmetric tops that distract the eye flatter those with broad shoulders.

With sales of one-pieces continuing to rise, the newest and most forward looking styles have long sleeves (called paddle suits) or are made in neoprene while some bikinis look like twinsets – those from Lisa Marie Ferndandez come with cute little bolero tops that cover the shoulders for protection besides looking cool in every sense. And can be worn swimming.

Knowing about proportion, fit and colour helps and there are some basic rules when it comes to choosing the right swimwear for your body type. Small busts can deal with the ruffles, the scallops and the frill of it all in the season’s decor while bigger boobs need support, so wider straps and well fitted bustier styles are best. Halternecks tend to suit narrow shoulders and the fuller figure – also helped with ruched waist draping.

Embellished tops distract the eye from a prominent derriere which can be enhanced with side ties or lacing details. Short taut torsos can rock low-rise bottoms and uplift or bandeau tops while those fit and athletic can add shape and contour with padding or prints. Dark solid colour one-pieces will flatter wide hips and pear shapes while panelled sides in dark colours have a slimming effect. Cheeky cut-outs like the white one piece here are for those who dare, and black flatters everyone.

Sun holidays also demand a good straw hat, ideally one that can be rolled and stowed, great shades, sandals (pompoms and tassels have the right spirit) and a cover up, be it a kaftan, a long button-through dress, sarong or a sunny striped T-shirt. Last but not least, a really good pedicure and sun block are a must before you dash for that splash.

All accessories and swimwear in Penneys stores nationwide.

Photography Alex Hutchinson, art direction Courtney Smith, make-up by Nicki Buglewicz using Penneys cosmetics, hair stylist Esperanza Avila, model Ashley Heller@Wilhelmina Miami. Falcon Holidays operate direct flights from Dublin to Cancun in June and July – visit falconholidays.ie