photo by Alaskan Dude

Spring break is here; all those sit-ups and hours spent on the treadmill will finally be worth it.  You've been working hard and sweating hard to get that beach body ready. 

But what's the sense in looking great in a bikini that is out of season?  Looking amazing in the bikini is one thing but having the most rocking bikini on the beach is just icing on the low-fat cake.

Bathing suit trends for this season offer something for beach bunnies.  Every good fashionista knows that even bathing suits offer a place to add your own touch of personal style. 

Bathing suits are going retro this season with vintage, pin-up suits that suggest a flirty 1950s cut.

Think Marilyn Monroe, but with modern prints.

One of the styles in trend for this season is the "monokini".  The monokini certainly isn't a new arrival on the scene but designers have jazzed it up to breathe new life into it. 

For instance, dresses aren't the only thing carrying one shoulder designs this season; the monokini has adopted the look too.  The monokini is also given some edge with funky cutouts and metallic accents.

Designers are also making use of the bandeau top, perfect for avoiding those Spring Break tan lines.  The Bandeau comes in a strapless style or with straps that can usually be removed. 

The bandeau top also is great for girls who are smaller on top.

As for colors, it is all about electric neons, ideal for showing off your tan.  Afraid to go neon? 

Try finding a suit with a small dose of color or use a neutral cover-up to counter balance the brightness.  This trend is definitely not for the wall flowers out there. 

However, if you aren't really a neon girl, there are other colors popping up at the beach.  We saw a lot of jewel tones on the ready-to-wear runway and that has carried over into swimwear. 

Colors like fuchsia, purple and emerald green are a trendy choice.

There are also a variety of patterns in style this season. 

Geometric patterns are hot on the scene as well as girly florals.  Animal prints are always popular with swimwear, but this year designers are spicing it up by infusing color into their designs. 

Don't be shocked to see a blue leopard print on the beach.

Like a little more bling on your bikini?  Sequins and beading are out in full force this season. 

We see most of the embellishments on the tops of the suits, leaving the bottoms neutral as so not to compete for attention.  Metallic is also making an appearance this year. 

Designers are utilizing metallic rings on their suits in all different shapes and sizes. 

Swimwear is also highlighting a feminine touch this year with the use of embroidery and ruffles.  Ruffles are perfect for camouflaging any uncertain areas you may be wary of. 

A ruffled top or bottom can also add volume to places you may be lacking in, showing what the power of a great bathing suit can do for you.  If you're looking to add a twist to a ruffled top, try it with a sexy boy short.

Remember, when choosing a bathing suit, it is important to stick to your personal style.  Pick a suit that tells who you are, and that you can rock with confidence. 

By Molly Tracy