It only takes one step into Target lately to remind you how quickly swimsuit season is upon us. I mean, do they do they publicly dangle those scant little strings and teeny triangles that barely cover the goodies to motivate us?

I think we all have one thing in mind when we see such displays: how do I make my body fit into that?

There are so many fun swimsuits out there and you don’t need a perfect body to rock one. With a few of these tricks, you will look fantastic at the beach or by the pool this summer, no matter what your body type!

8 Tricks To Looking Slimmer in a Swimsuit

1. Watch your lines.

When trying on swimsuit with lines, look for ones that flatter your figure. It’s a myth that horizontal lines make you look fatter. Actually, this study found that thick vertical lines (like the ones a referee wears) make a person look bigger than they are. No one wants to look like a referee at the pool.

As a good rule of thumb, look for lines (like the suit above) that accentuate your curves. Opt for stripes on bottom and a solid on top to make you look slimmer or lines that give the optical illusion of a narrowed waist.

2. Wear a wide-brimmed hat.

A wide-brimmed hat can draw attention away from any insecurities you may have, plus it’s a hot fashion accessory, and protects your skin from sun damage. Win, win, win!

3. Get a faux tan.

You’ll be amazed at how much toner and slimmer you’ll look with a little faux tan. It’s a trick that fashion models and body-builders use. Want to know the best options as far as fake tans go? This is a favorite brand of ours. Goes on SO smooth and doesn’t turn orange at all! Here are our favorite safe fake bake methods and products!

 4. Avoid big prints.

If you’re a bold fashionista who loves fun prints, go for it! But go for small prints over large ones when choosing a suit that flatters your figure best. Large flowers or geometric shapes will make you look bigger as well. Try smaller prints like polka dots and patterns with a fun indie vibe.

You can find the above swimsuits here.

5. Wear a dark bathing suit.

Just like that classic little black dress, dark colors are the most slimming. Black and navy blue will reliably give you that thinning effect you’re looking for. I really love THIS one, as well as THIS one (RUFFLES!) and THIS one. This is a less expensive version of a popular Anthropologie suit and has been FLYING off the shelves.  This suit was talked about nonstop on our Facebook page too. The price point is killer too!

6. Snag a lightweight wrap.

Want to hide those trouble spots but still want to look sexy? A wrap is your bestie, plus there are so many gorgeous options to choose from! I personally love this sarong beach skirt.

7. Wear your hair up.

Wearing your hair up in a swimsuit reveals your neck and makes you look longer and leaner. Try this sporty up-do or an easy top knot to really lengthen your beach bod.

8. Wear wedges.

It’s no secret that heels make you look taller and leaner, but it’s not too practical to wear heels to the pool or in that beach sand. Actually, it’s downright ridiculous! But you can wear wedges and lofty sandals to give you that slim effect and make your legs look great! This pair of wedges has been seen on every fashion blogger from here to China. They’re HOT, and we can see why! Darling!

Don’t let the anxiety over wearing a swimsuit keep you from enjoying everything that’s great about summer. Splash into those waves, dive into the deep end, and sunbathe in a beach chair without a second thought of what you look like doing it. The biggest slimming secret of all is self-confidence, so go on girl, rock summer!