The Perfect Swimsuit: Get 'em before they're gone!

Wow, I can't believe I haven't posted in over a week! Am I slacking or what?

Well, as many of you are aware, it's spring break for us college kids, and unfortunately for me, Kansas has been battered with rain all week, which pretty much killed my lake plans. But, my pain can be your gain, because this unfortunate circumstance has made me look forward even more to summer, and you know what that means! The quest for the perfect swimsuit.

As with most seasonal merchandise, swimsuits appear in stores waaay before they naturally should (late winter for most major retailers), and oftentimes we can get lulled into a false sense of security and think we have plenty of time to shop. However, my experience has shown that if you start shopping now, in early- to mid-spring, more of the season's hottest merchandise will be readily available to you.

And already there are a few basic trends emerging for Summer '07 swimwear. Bandeau tops and one-pieces are becoming increasingly popular this season, and now more than ever the biggest trends for spring are reflecting themselves in this summer's swimwear.

The updated one-piece is no longer for old ladies. It's getting a sexy makeover with cutout details and embellishments, such as nautical themed one from Tommy Hilfiger:

Tommy Hilfiger Nautic Suit, $95, www.shoptommy.com

Bandeau tops are reflecting this season's colorblock trend, giving them a bit more edge. My favorite? This beach-ready number from Brette Sandler:

photo: shopbop

The two hottest swimsuit design themes this summer by far are stripes and nautical, or ocean-inspired prints.

Salinas Wide Stripe Halter Top, $55, Urban Outfitters; and Wet Seal Solid Anchor Triangle Top, $19.50, Wet Seal

Victoria's Secret is taking it up a notch and incorporating this spring's revival of large florals with this sexy halter swimsuit. (I'm actually thinking about buying this one!)

Beach Sexy Floral Halter Top and String Bottom, $42 and $38, VictoriasSecret.com

And there you have it. I may do a follow-up to this a bit closer to summer, but this will definitely give you something to think about as we embrace the warmer wearther and you start envisioning yourself doing your favorite summer activities. (and of course you'll be doing them in style in these hot new swimsuits!)