How to Try on a Bikini

At some point or another, every woman has experienced the joy and pain of trying on a bikini. Sometimes, we blame the dressing-room mirror for what we see, and other times, we lash out at friends or loved ones. On rare occasions, we rejoice at the sight of our new bodies after months of dieting and exercise. No matter what state of mind you're in when you enter the dressing room, be prepared to try on several different bikinis before you find the one that flatters your natural curves and fits your sense of style.

Instructions

1. Call a trusted friend and take her along for the big day. Make sure you pick a friend who is both brutally honest and completely willing to sing your praises.

2. Plan on trying on a bunch of different bikinis. Wear slip-on shoes and a summer dress, so you can try on tons of bikinis without getting frustrated in the dressing room.

3. Leave your underwear on while trying on bikinis. Wear a thong or high-cut bikini briefs to get a good idea of how a suit is going to look when you hit the beach.

4. Move around in your bikini. Swing your arms and shake around to make sure your bikini stays put. Make sure the bottoms don't sag or creep as you walk. Jump up and down to make sure the top doesn't shift or come untied.

5. Try on separate bra tops and bikini bottoms. Customize each piece to contour to the unique curves of your body. Don't force yourself to wear a large bikini bottom just because you like the matching top.

6. Check the elastic at the waist and the legs. Avoid bands that cut into your skin. Select a smaller size if the elastic bunches up around the legs or crotch.

7. Check the fit of the bra. Make sure you're not spilling out of the sides or from underneath. If you're falling out in the dressing room, imagine what might happen when you get in the water.

8. Choose dark-colored bikinis if you want to disguise a body flaw. Select lighter colors, like white, yellow or gold, to accentuate your best features.

Tips & Warnings

• If you just started dating someone, leave him at home. Otherwise, the question, "Does this suit make me look fat," may spark your first fight.

• Don't let a bad-fitting thong ruin your day. If you try one on and it looks bad, join the club. Not many women can pull off a thong.