(NAPSA)—Swimwear can be one of the most difficult and stressful fashion purchases for a woman to make; but finding a perfect suit doesn’t have to be a hassle. In fact, it can be as easy as knowing your assets. Focusing on body parts you’re proud of is an easy way to take attention away from little trouble areas. Kathy Douglas, Kmart’s director of trend and product development for ladies’ wear, suggests women flaunt long legs with a high-cut tank or showcase a tight tummy with a tiny bikini. Useallover prints to create the illusion of curves on an athletic frame or diagonal prints to distract from a wide waistline. Hot looks for this summer, such as retro Hawaiian prints, all-over florals and stripes, can do thetrick. To make swimsuit shopping even easier, retailers such as Kmart offer mix-and-match swimwear, allowing customers to personalize a swimsuit by choosing the patterns, styles and sizes that best flatter their figure. Douglas offers the following additional hints: For a curvy build: Stick with all-over patterns that draw attention to the print, or work to emphasize one area of your body you especially like. If you have long,lean legs, opt for a suit that’s cut higher on thehip. To showcase a flattering bustline, opt for designs or decoration that draw attention to the bust. For a small bust: Seek out styles with a sweetheart neckline and underwire or padding at the chest. Adornment or decoration such as lace and ruffles can also create the illusion of a fuller bustline. For a full chest: To de-emphasize your bust, look for styles with built-in bras and high necks that provide Women can mix and match swimwear to find suits that accentuatetheir positives. ample support. Halter styles can also be flattering but be cautious to avoid looks that are cut too low. For a pear shape: Draw attention upward with a flattering or decorated neckline. Wearing dark colors on bottom and a pattern on top focuses the gaze away from your lowerhalf. The opposite look—dark colors on the top with a pattern on bottom—can accentuate a flat stom- ach and draw eyes downward. Styles such as strapless or skirted tanks are flattering for fuller figures. Kmart offers affordable mix- and-match swimwear styles from their popular JoE Boxer and KathyIreland brands.
