Tips to remember when choosing a bathing suit

Accessories will help you make a splash on the beach.
By ANNA WALLNER and KRISTINA MATISIC
Scripps Howard
The bathing suit is perhaps the most dreaded item to shop for among women. What is it about those dressing room lights and mirrors that appear to add five pounds?
But alas, it is a chore we all must conquer. Keep these tips in mind when shopping for a suit:
Don't ever buy a cotton suit. It can take forever to dry and it fades and it won't hold its shape. We prefer a Lycra-nylon blend.
Don't shop immediately after lunch or a meal. Shop in the morning, before you've had your latte and fried egg sandwich. It will be better for your mental state. And only shop with your most trusted friend. You can't rely on many of those salespeople who just want to make a sale.
Twist and turn and bend and squat in the change room to check for comfort and fit.
Remember that swim suits usually fit small so you'll likely have to go up a size or two.
Large-breasted women may want a suit with under wire for extra support, as well as wide straps.
If you have a boyish figure go for solids, which tend to be more sophisticated than flowered or patterned suits. And the bandeau top is a great choice for the small-breasted woman.
Accessorize. Use big earrings, a necklace, bracelets, oversized shades and/or a hat. They'll take your poolside look up a notch. Check out some fashion magazines for inspiration.
Try a little cognitive therapy while shopping and focus on all the great things you do in the world; like donating to charity, a worthy career, being a good friend and so on. Suddenly that silly bikini won't seem like such a big deal.