Bikinis were a forbidden boom back in the day, and now they are universally sexy. Sexy side-tie, triangle-pieced bikinis tend to leave little to the imagination. But you can encourage the imagination by adding a few extra curves by going for a top with a built-in push-up bra, or an under wire. To take it down a notch, you can go for a bandini, which is, essentially a bikini with a bandeau top. A bandeau is a straight, strip-like piece of fabric.

Are you a little uncomfortable with a bikini, but not wanting to go with a full one-piece suit? Go for the tankini. The top is longer and leaves only a small part, about 2-4 inches of your stomach exposed. Camikinis are the same as this, except the top looks like a camisole.

If none of those options seem appealing, perhaps you want to leave more to the imagination, you may want to opt for a maillot, which is a basic one-piece suit. Some have come to refer to a cut-out style the "monokini".

To take leaving things to the imagination a step further, you can wear boy legs, which are a long leg resembling really short shorts. Be careful, though, sometimes boy legs make the leg look shorter.

Beyond the basic design of the swim wear you need to choose, you should also consider the color and accessories. Some swimming suits have zippers, some have strings, some have metal hoops, some are blue, some are designed. Choose the design you prefer for you body and then consider color and design.

There are other types of swimwear necessary for the water. Other than just basic body parts, you can also cover your head, ears, and eyes.

Swim caps, placed over the head and ears and reduce water resistance when trying to swim. This is especially handy for competition. Goggles, placed over the eyes protect the delicate balance of the eye from chlorine and other chemicals in pool water, and salt and pollution in natural water, which helps swimmers to see well under the water.

You should assess your body and body type, and your level of confidence in your body and choose your swimwear accordingly. You don't want to pick out a swimming suit that is considered cool because it's cool and end up feeling self-conscious every time you wear it. If you choose your swimwear accordingly, you will be able to focus on having fun rather than worrying.