Swimsuits That Can Handle Curves

Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D
A walking, talking cure for self-consciousness, this expert at shaping and slimming (she's stylist to Hairspray's Nikki Blonsky) breaks down what to wear to the water.
Nicole says:
Nicole says:
- "Look for suits with tummy-control panels; wide, supportive straps; and ruching, which makes bulges less obvious."
- "When it comes to swimwear, you don't want to go cheap. The most important thing for full-figured women is high-quality fabric that can control curves."
- "Rinse your suit with cool water after every swim—chlorine can destroy the fibers and weaken the elasticity of the spandex—and avoid fabric-zapping hot tubs." More fuller-figure shopping tips at nicolebrewer.com.

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"Understated, simple, no-frills—perfect for serious swimmers who need extra coverage and firm control." (Speedo, $62; alwaysforme.com)

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"The ruching has a slimming effect, and the halter neck and sweetheart neckline are so romantic." ($65; silhouettes.com)

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"I live for the Miraclesuit—the supportive fabric really does take off ten pounds." ($130; macys.com)

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"This clever design uses diagonal stripes on black to create the illusion of a narrower midsection." ($76; itfigures.com for stores)

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"The skirt covers a full bottom but doesn't look like blatant camouflage. It's flirty yet tasteful." ($89; alwaysforme.com)

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"The twist-front bust draws attention away from hips and thighs." ($89 [with removable straps]; alwaysforme.com)

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D
"A deep vee puts the focus on the upper body; the center seam creates a long vertical line." (Miraclesuit, $140, macys.com)
From the June 2008 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine