Nicole Brewer

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:
  • "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.
Nicole is wearing a Roberta Roller Rabbit by Roberta Freymann tunic with a Matta sarong and Toby Pomeroy earrings.
Purple Speedo swimsuit

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

"Understated, simple, no-frills—perfect for serious swimmers who need extra coverage and firm control." (Speedo, $62; alwaysforme.com)
Swimsuit with halter

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

"The ruching has a slimming effect, and the halter neck and sweetheart neckline are so romantic." ($65; silhouettes.com)
Purple Miraclesuit swimsuit

Photo: Marko Metzinger/Studio D

"I live for the Miraclesuit—the supportive fabric really does take off ten pounds." ($130; macys.com)
Swimsuit with stripes

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)
Swimsuit with skirt

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)
Strapless swimsuit

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)