It’s been a tricky year so far, we’ve had so much rain that I haven’t really stopped and though about hitting the beach.

Overnight the summer holidays are upon us, and I’m facing the annual task of prepping for the beach: all that buffing, waxing, moisturising, pedicuring – oh and the annual challenge of finding something you’ll feel happy and comfortable on in the beach.

Of course there are plenty of girls who can wear teeny string bikinis on the beach and look great – you might be one of them – if you’re not though you can bet they’ll be on the same beach as you frolicking around in the surf looking extremely perky.

Panic not! With a bit of thought for your body shape you can accentuate all those assets and look and feel great on the beach. If you don’t already know your body type you can work it out here, then pick your perfect swimsuit and get on that beach!

Rectangle shape

If you’re a straight up and down kind of girl, use ruffles and halter neck swimsuits to give yourself more shape. One piece swimsuits with cut-outs can also be great for adding some curves!

Apple shape

Clever geometric prints are great for taking the emphasis away from a rounded belly, and if your tummy bulge is lower down use a high waisted vintage style bikini to tuck any wobbly bits in!

Pear shape

Use a wide shoulders and a deep V to balance your body shape and matched with high cut briefs to lengthen your thighs. Colour blocking can also be good.

Inverted triangle

If you’ve got big boobs always make sure you wear supportive swimwear. Balance out a bigger top half with vintage-style bikini briefs or a strapless swimsuit – just make sure that it’s one with proper cups!

Hourglass shape

Make the most of that hourglass shape in a supportive bikini or swimsuit with a defined waist and a deep V

Oh and a general tip for everyone who isn’t quite as perky as they used to be – get a bikini with proper cup sizes. Don’t be put off by the fact that a lot of companies only do cup size bikinis for size D and above. Brands like Ted Baker and Calvin Klein do proper bra-size bikinis right down to a B cup…

So, what are you going to be wearing on the beach this summer?