SWIMWEAR BASICS

You won't make a fool of yourself by the lake or pool this summer if you follow swim expert Jennifer Cermak's do's and don'ts.

Do Miniskirt bottoms: They cut off like a boy short, but are sassier and more fashionable (not like your mom's skirted swimsuit). You'll get the coverage you want and have flexibility to move around.

Bikinis: If you were looking at a cutout, you probably would be happier just taking the dive into a bikini. You can try convertible height bottoms that can be adjusted to flatter you.

Tab-side or flip bottoms: If you must tie, place the knots in the front corner of the bottom instead of on the side of your hips. This will allow you to get a tighter fit, without pinching. Otherwise, try the more flattering (but still sexy) options of tab-side or flip bottoms.

Don't Boy shorts: Great if you're 15 and straight as a board, but most people try boy shorts to get rear-end coverage. It doesn't help to conceal if you put lots of tight fabric over the area.

One-piece suits with cutouts: Instead of working curves, they'll add imaginary pounds to them. They also don't provide bust coverage and often pinch the hips.

Tie side bottoms: To get the bottom not to pinch tightly, most customers tie it too loosely and then complain about a saggy bottom or being too loose in the water.