It might be hard to see through the haze of final exams, but summer is on the horizon! Only a week until going to the beach, boating on the lake, going on picnics, learning to surf, and getting tan. Homework and tests will be the last thing on your mind. Warm weather is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about bikinis.          Â
Here is a guide to everything from the new bikini styles, to some hints on how to flatter different body types.
1. The Push Up Bandeau Top
Victoria’s Secret has put the summer spotlight on the Push Up Bandeau Top! The reason it’s so popular is because it appeals to both smaller and bigger busted women! It’s the only bandeau top that gives “blessed” women the support that they need in a swimsuit, while making smaller women more curvaceous. This style comes in so many fun colors and prints and even comes with a strap, easily transformable into a halter. More varieties of the style depicted above can be checked out online.
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2. Hipkini Cut Bottoms
Hipkinis are IN! These bottoms feature the minimal coverage style, which gives a little more “cheek” to your ensemble. Hipkini bottoms are designed to show off a little more of what your momma gave you! Hipkini bottoms come in different styles, but all feature a low rise and less back design aesthetic. The Hipkini comes in two styles: the thick-banded style, which is good for girls with wider hips, and then there is the thin-banded style, for those who want to show off more of their figure. Victoria Secret strikes again with great options of this trend. Be sure to order yours for this season.
3. The Classic-Kini
 This summer is bringing back the retro look (SCORE)! Ruffles and stripes have made a return and are looking cuter than ever. This suit is sexy and classy, and is great to wear for all occasions, not just that college spring break. It gives a little more coverage for those who aren’t as comfortable with the Hipkini. “The Island Company” is a brand that always seems to exude this classic-ness and never fails to create great striped bikini and tankini options!
4. Animal Print and Floral
Two of the hottest patterns this summer are animal print and floral! Animal print is always a sexy choice, and now you can get almost any bikini style in zebra, leopard, and cheetah (it’s about time)! If you’re going for a more innocent and “cuter” look, floral designs are a great pick! They’re colorful, fun, and are sure to stand out. Betsey Johnson is a designer with fierce floral and animal printed options that will not disappoint. Considering her recent file for bankruptcy, now is a better time than ever to start browsing and shopping her collection. Not to mention she also has the cutest towels to complement your fabulous bikini finds!Â
5. Brazilian
Brazilians have become a sensation in tropical places such as Hawaii and South America, and are now sizzling their way to the states. Be forewarned, this is not a bikini for the reserved. It has very minimal back coverage, but if you got it, flaunt it, gals! It is great for girls with less junk in the trunk because they are smaller and more form fitting in the bottoms. Get cheeky with the angels’ options!