Best Bikinis

For many women, the thought of slipping into a bikini is enough to make them forget the Seychelles and consider a fortnight in Iceland instead. But you'll be surprised by how flattering the right two-piece can be.

                                  "M"Most  people have the misconception that covering up in a one-piece swimsuit looks better," says Penny Klein, one half of glamorous all-year-round holiday store Heidi Klein.

"In fact, you can appear slimmer in a two-piece if you get the cut and color right."

The key is not to grab a bikini at the last minute from the airport, but to put as much time and effort in as you would to find the perfect bra. "Wearing a bikini is basically like wearing your underwear," says Lee Prosser, swimwear buyer at Marks & Spencer.

"The most important thing to remember is to get the fit right. " At Bikini Sunshine we sell separates, as not many women are the same size top and bottom, and our bikini tops come in single cup sizes for a better fit.

If you're not blessed with legs up to your armpits, opt for high-cut bikini briefs, which are great for lengthening the leg. Hipster "low-rise" shorts will elongate the torso and cover up unsightly lumps and bumps.

On top, halter necks will add curves and soften broad shoulders, bikini tops with gentle padding will also emphasize curves, while pretty beaded ties will add an eye-catching - and distracting - charm.

Larger  women should opt for underwired tops with double lining for a smoother, more supported look.

"The biggest draw for our customers is color," says Prosser. " Don't shy away from printed bikinis, either; they can be as flattering as black."

Still not convinced? "Try a tankini - a vest and shorts - for a more covered up look," says Prosser. A tankini can then double up as a simple holiday top, too.

And if all that's not enough, throw on a kaftan. This season, you'll still be the height of fashion.

By David Hayes, Evening Standard