Depending on where you live, summer may be right around the corner, or it might already be here. And you know what that means ... bathing suit season! If the thought of being out in public in a bikini makes you cringe, don't worry -- you have time to join America Takes It Off and get your body where you want it to be, and if, by some slight chance, your body doesn't end up looking quite the way you planned before your next trip to the beach, you have wardrobe options (check out the gallery if you don't believe me).

First of all, let's take a minute to talk about your body. I'm hoping that you love every inch of it, but if there are some things you'd like to change, I'm right there with you. Perhaps you're not too confident about your mid-section, or there's a little more junk in your trunk than you'd like. Or, maybe you're really thin and wish you had more curves. What we all need to do is realize what parts of our bodies we like best and figure out how to play up those assets when we put on our bathing suits.
Tummy trouble: I'll begin with those who are heavy around the middle. First and foremost, if you're really self-conscious about your belly, wearing a bikini isn't going to make you feel better about it. There are lots of cute tankini options out now, and you can find a lot of sexy, stylish one-pieces. One of my very favorites is this one-piece by Miraclesuit -- it's dramatic, glamorous, and sexy, and it'll help you look 10 pounds thinner!

Another option for those who don't want to show their tummies but still want to look sexy is the deep plunge swimsuit. This style still shows some skin -- just not the areas you want to hide.

Busty beach babes: If you're more concerned about supporting your ample bust, you might want to look to Land's End -- they have a pretty decent selection of bust-minimizing suits. A lot of them are kind of plain and sporty, but there are a few cute halter styles that would certainly do the trick. Or, if you're not so worried about minimizing your bust, but you do need something that fits a large bust, check out Exelnt Designs, which carries all kinds of styles for women with up to an I cup.

Try to avoid tops that cut straight across or have thin straps -- the straight line will make your chest look wide, and thin straps won't balance out the size of your bust.

Skinny minnies: Now, those of you who feel you are too thin -- there are some ways to make yourselves look curvy that don't involve copious amounts of padding. One style you should make friends with is the bandeau, but try not to get a top that goes straight across. Something gathered in the center, like this ruffled bikini by Shoshanna, would be just perfect for you. Plus, the ruffles will add a little width to your hips and give the illusion of curves.

Earth goddess: If you are concerned about the shape of the planet as well as your own shape in a swimsuit, check out this list of eco-friendly swimwear companies. Style and sustainability go hand in hand!

Sexy sarongs and more: If you're still not confident walking down the beach in your flattering new suit, find a fun beach cover up that you love. A sarong is always fun and cute (and there are a zillion ways to wear them!), but you don't have to settle for that. Find a tunic, a kicky sun dress, or a gauzy skirt to cover up your "challenge" areas and strut your stuff, you hot mama!