SWIMWEAR SHOPPING TIPS

If you must go somewhere without customer service, bring these fit tips with you into the dressing room.

Check yourself out. You really have to look at yourself in the mirror, no matter the lighting, says Kim Friday of Women's Wear Daily. She recommends trying suits on again at home before tearing off tags. Also, don't be afraid to show more skin. Sometimes a suit with full coverage is actually less flattering.

Tie everything onto your body. Jennifer Cermak of Nani Nalu says many women just put on a halter top and say, "My boobs are saggy," or, "This is too big." Often, it just needs to be adjusted. If you tie the back 6 inches tighter and the halter neck 5 inches tighter, you'll have a perfect fit.

Size doesn't matter. Just like in clothing, sizes make no sense in the swimwear industry. There are so many small, privately held designers from different countries that all use their own standards. All that matters is that the suit does not pinch. You can always cut out the label.

Try tailoring. For a cleavage boost, boat foam inserts sewn into the lining can change shape without adding a cup size. Strap alterations can be done on one pieces. Alterations through Nani Nalu are usually $10.

Take care of your suits. Hand wash with organic detergent that contains no fragrance or alcohol. You can put suits in the washing machine in a bag, but don't put them in the dryer -- it will melt the Lycra. Avoid wringing them dry. If you must speed the process, roll up the suit in a towel and squeeze. Avoid wearing new suits in a hot tub, because heat and chemicals deteriorate the fabrics.

SARA GLASSMAN