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Summer 2008 Swimsuit Trends

Swimsuits have changed a lot over the years. The very first styles worn by women offered total coverage. The very first woman to wear a form-fitting one piece suit, all the way back in 1909, was arrested for indecent exposure. Oh, how times have changed! The swimsuit evolved to include less and less fabric as time progressed, thanks to the invention of the bikini. In 2008, there are a few standout trends in swimwear that can help you look hot yet keep cool when temperatures soar!

Triangle Bikinis
Skip the classic rounded bikini top styles and choose triangle coverings instead. The runways at the Miami Swim event were filled with models clad in only string bikinis and triangle cut tops; one of the most interesting looks this year is a two-color top where one side of the bikini is the complete opposite in color as the other.

The Bandeau
Bandeau bikini tops are back this season, and best paired with boy shorts and super-skimpy bikini bottoms. Pick up yours in an array of bright tropical colors including turquoise, emerald green, orange or pink. Jacquelyne Love added a twist to this look with extra fabric gathered at the sides of the bandeau to tie around the neck as a semi-halter. Find this in both solid and floral prints this year.

Sailor Stripes
Jessica Simpson's Swim collection featured a number of black and white striped ensembles in both one-piece and two-piece styles. Look for one-pieces with keyhole cuts and complete cutaway styles, and finish off the look with a few bright red, navy, or pink accessories.

The Trapeze Coverall
If you need a little extra coverage on beach day, follow the lead of designer Rosa Cha with a flowy trapeze top over a bandeau. The tops are fitted around the chest and flow out for a loose and comfortable fit. Enjoy a goddess-inspired look with a toga-style wrap instead, also a key look from this designer; these very-feminine tops and dresses are perfect for cooler evenings after a day of fun in the sun.

If you're devoted to the one-piece swimsuit, try something in a sparkly silver or gold if you're the outgoing type. Basic black or winter white is flattering for everyone. Got a wild side? Express yourself with a high cut one piece in a feisty animal print. One pieces these days are featuring interesting details like plunging V-necks and even abdominal cutouts. It's possible to go as daring or as conservative as you like.

An important aspect of swimsuit style is the swimsuit cover-up. Try a sassy sarong wrapped around your waist for some poolside coverage with style. Ethnic prints inspired by East Asian art are hot these days. Try an exotic print sarong with a pair of strappy sandals, and you've got instant glamour for those times when you're lounging by the water but don't want to go for the full-body reveal.

The most important part of swimsuit fashion is that you choose something you feel comfortable and attractive in. Some women love the bikini, others prefer the one piece. No matter what kind of swimwear you ultimately choose, the most important thing is that you wear it with confidence!