It only takes one step into Target lately to remind you how quickly swimsuit season is upon us. I mean, do they publicly dangle those scant little strings, plunging neckline, 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!

No matter your body shape, finding a swimsuit that accentuates all the right places can be hard. That’s why we created this guide on how to look your best in a swimsuit despite any problem areas you might feel insecure about.

8 Tricks To Looking Slimmer in a Swimsuit

1. Watch your lines.

When trying on a 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 stripes (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 solid colors on top to make you look slimmer or lines that give the optical illusion of a narrowed waist. If you like two-piece suits, opting for high waist bottoms can accentuate your curves in the best way as well.

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 toned and slim 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! Even if you have a little excess weight, putting on a faux tan can make it less noticeable.

 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, thin lines, and patterns with a fun indie vibe. Busy prints are great if you’re wearing a one-piece swimsuit as well! You’ll especially want to avoid big prints if you have a large bust.

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! When you reach for the darker colors, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re highlighting your best features and getting that slimming effect.

6. Snag a lightweight wrap.

Want to hide those extra pounds while still looking sexy? A wrap is your new best friend, plus there are so many gorgeous options to choose from offered by great swimwear brands! 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, keeping with those vertical lines we mentioned earlier. Try this sporty up-do or an easy top knot to really lengthen your beach bod. Up-dos look great with bikini tops! If you’re worried about showing too much skin, add a cute wrap or cover-up.

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 toss your flip flops and wear wedges or 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 best secret of all is self-confidence, so go on girl, rock summer! You don’t have to find the perfect swimsuit or cover up your stomach area to have fun in the sun this year.