"Less is not more when it comes to women's swimwear trends this year," says Tara Ellef, senior vice president of merchandising for Lands' End. "What women are really looking for this season is more options in swimsuits of different styles and sizes to fit and flatter every body."

No, you don't have to be a Victoria's Secret model and bare your buns, but you don't have to sacrifice style to get the fit you need in a swimsuit. Before you wade into the deep end of the swimwear department, stop and smell the sea salt. Then take your pick of these top trends:

- Custom fits: One size does not fit all anymore. Many suits have flexibility and adapt to body shape from adjustable straps on necklines to drawstrings that cinch on the sides to mix-and-match tops and bottoms in different sizes.

- Classic halters: One of the most popular silhouettes of suits this year, this classic is back in both one- and two-piece suits and tankinis. The halter top complements almost every body shape.

- Retro details: Whether it's a high-waisted two-piece, boy-leg shorts, crocheted knits, flirty ruffles or gathered midriffs, swimwear designers take a hint from the past and update suits in new ways. Hardware accents like belts, buckles and rings also give suits a retro flair.

- Stylish one-piece: More popular than ever, the one-piece suits are anything but boring this year. In sporty looks, bandeaus or sophisticated one-shoulder silhouettes. There are plenty of ways to have coverage and style both at the same time.

- Print it: Go beyond the solid-colored suit. The real news that's making swimsuits pop this year is in bold prints and patterns. Try a graphic print in colorful geometric designs or go for playful ethnic prints and wild nature motifs.

- Slim and trim: Suck it in if you must, or let your suit do it for you. When it comes to shaping up for swimsuit season, there are many ways to gain control of the little lumps and bumps that we don't want to show off on the beach. Look for tags on suits with special slenderizing designs and fabrics.

- Skirting the issue: Swim "dresses" are making waves; these little skirts don't just hide those upper thighs anymore. It's OK to twirl around in a skirt on the beach this year. Dive into the surf - skirted suits are showing up everywhere. Try a pull-on skirt style with adjustable sides or wrap-style sarongs. Shirt dresses make going from the pool to lunch even more convenient.

- Shine on: You don't have to get soaked to look wet in some of the season's newest bathing apparel. Fabrics shine with glazed laminated surfaces and pearlized finishes. Metallics, especially in swimwear accessories like sandals and beach bags, are more popular than ever.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.

© Copley News Service

Visit Copley News Service at www.copleynews.com.