Selecting a Swimsuit continued...

"If the upper half of your body is well supported, then your whole shape looks better. Your whole appearance is lifted when the bust is lifted properly," says Wong, assistant chairwoman of the fashion design-apparel department at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology.

Also important, she says, is locking in on the right size. While this may sound simple enough, Wong says that wearing clothing that doesn't fit properly is one of the biggest fashion faux pas women make.

"What many of us don't realize is that our regular clothing size is really only a guideline or a starting point when shopping for a swimsuit and not the definitive way of selecting a suit.”

Because a swimsuit fits altogether differently than clothing, experiment not only with different styles, but also different sizes, to find your best look, Wong suggests.

"Find the swimsuit you like in the size you think you are, but before you head into the dressing room also grab the same suit a size smaller and one a size larger, and try on all three before deciding if it's right or wrong for you," says Wong.

Many women, she says, are surprised at how much better a bathing suit looks when they simply change sizes.

Confidence-Building Beachwear

When it comes to summertime style, most of us associate the word "beach" with bathing suits. But fashion experts say that as in life, so goes it at the beach: Accessories can save the day.

"You have to think about a day at the beach like you would any other event -- going out to lunch or to a party -- and remember, it's not just about the bathing suit, it's about the whole look, and pulling together a coordinated image," says Romano.

Her choices for beach accessories include a large, brightly colored, tote bag, some "organic" jewelry in natural stones -- particularly earrings ¬ and, definitely, a brightly colored hat.

"If I had to pick only one accessory for the beach, it would be a hat. Not only does it immediately draw the eye upwards to the face, but it can add color and style -- plus protect you from the sun -- and that's a great combination," says Romano.

Another favorite, she says is the wedge espadrille sandal. "It can elongate your leg and give you that lift, without making it look like you are trying too hard," Romano says. "You don't want to wear high heels on the beach, but an espadrille is just sporty enough to make it work."

When it comes to choosing a fashionable beach cover-up, Wong says many women lean toward styles with lots of fabric, to "cover up" what they don't like. This, she says, is another beach fashion mistake.

"Don't think of a beach cover-up as a way to hide your body. Think of it as a fashion statement, and try to avoid the "tent" look because it's only going to make you look larger," she says.

If your fashion style is eclectic or sophisticated, Wong says, try a low-slung hip sarong in a print that coordinates with your swimsuit. For those who want ultra-chic style with maximum coverage, don a slinky pareo (a sarong-type wrap that can cover you from bust to midcalf) the minute you step out of the water.