• Finding the perfect swimsuit can be a daunting feat.Jamie Grill/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Finding the perfect swimsuit can be a daunting feat, especially when you're not cut from the same physical cloth as the thin women who model them. It's no wonder stepping into the dressing room with an armload of swimsuits and your good sense of humor can be something of a dreaded experience. However, with a few helpful hints in this battle of the bulge, finding the perfect swimsuit might not be as insufferable as you think.
  
  

Swimsuits with Built-in Tummy Control

• If you struggle with a muffin-top or belly bulge, keep your eye open for a swimsuit that offers built-in tummy control. This slenderizing technique in swimsuit design will help to minimize the unwanted bulge, as well as maximize your confidence in wearing it. You will find built-in tummy control in select one-piece and two-piece swimsuits.
  
  

Swimsuit Tops

• One of the best things you can do if you have full breasts is to invest in a swimsuit that has a full cup, a high neckline and a sturdy, adjustable strap. Many swimsuits come with a shoestring type strap, and while this may work for smaller breasted women, it doesn't make much sense for women with fuller, more robust breasts. By simply investing in a sturdy swimsuit top, whether it's a two-piece or built into a one-piece, it separates your breasts from your belly, creating a lovely hour-glass figure.
  
  

Swimsuit Bottoms

• If you have shorter, fuller thighs, consider a swimsuit that is high-cut around the legs. This creates the illusion of a longer, leaner leg. If you aren't completely comfortable revealing that much thigh, you have the option of purchasing a swimsuit with a built-in skirt. However, if you are hoping to reduce the bulge on your backside, you'll want to avoid the swimsuit with a skirt. The ideal swimsuit for you would be the one that offers full coverage, such as a one-piece.
  
  

Swimsuit Colors

• Think monochromatic when you are considering the color of your next swimsuit. Like any magician worth his salt, there are certain elements to a swimsuit that can create illusion; color is one of them, especially dark colors. While black is generally the most slimming of all on the color palate, consider other, more vibrant colors, such as navy-blue, red, eggplant and charcoal gray.
  
  

Swimsuit Patterns

• Avoid horizontal stripes at all costs. They may make for a cute swimsuit, but the truth is they are not your friend. If anything they draw more attention. The same is true of large prints. Stay away from them. Whether you're hoping to reduce the bulge in your breasts, your hips, your thighs or your middle, stick to a monochromatic theme. However, if you have your heart set on a striped pattern, go for the vertical stripe. The vertical stripe will elongate your look quite nicely.