We picked through the good, the bad and the just plain ugly. The lowdown on what’s hot and shot for summer 2011 swimwear.


What’s Hot
1. Cutaways that look like a bikini from the front but cover the back

Leopard Print Monokoini, $51, Victoria’s Secret

2. Skirtinis and skorts

Kenneth Cole Reaction Skirted Bikini, $62, Dillards

3. Tunics, kaftans, pareos and dresses as cover-ups

Fantasie Brasilla Kaftan, $78.40, Figleaves

4. Ruffles

Marc by Marc Jacobs Ruffle Swimsuit, $98, Bluefly

5. Batik and paisley (global-inspired)

Multi-colored Paisley Bikini, $55, Topshop

6. 50s pin-up girl looks (twisted bandeaus and one-pieces, ruching on the bodice, polka dots)

One-Piece Bandeau Swimsuit, $78, White House Black Market

7. Gelato shades (from chocolate and pistachio to lemon and cherry)

Gelato One-Piece Swimsuit, $74.50

8. Arts ‘n crafts: crochet, embroidery, appliqué, beading, ribbons and eyelet

Xhileration Embroidered Bikini, $15, Target

9. Metallic fabrics

Metallic Strappy Swimsuit, $23.31, Asos

10. Sailor stripes and nautical theme

Cape-Stripe Tank, $82, J. Crew

What’s Shot
1. Animal Print Overkill. If you’ve got a zebra suit, tone it down with a sheer black caftan; pair a leopard-print top with a chocolate brown or black bottom. Never mix animal prints (e.g., combining cheetah, snake and tiger).
2. T-shirts as cover-ups. It tells everyone you’ve got something to hide.
3. Flimsy, sheer suit fabrics. Great… for wet-T-shirt contests.
4. Wearing your Burberry plaid from head to toe. Instead try a signature piece (e.g., a designer logo tank with solid, unmarked bottoms).
5. Thongs and g-strings. Out of the question if you have any cellulite -– as Star magazine has shown us, even skinny Paris Hilton’s got no business flaunting her rear assets on the beach.
6. Tiny triangle bikini tops. Support that bust.
7. The skimpy stuff. This season’s look offers more to the imagination.
8. Tube tops and bandeaus. If you’re well -endowed these tops will make it look like you have a uni-boob.
9. Stuffing yourself into a black suit. Try color-blocking and tricot (slenderizing) fabrics.
10. Over bling. Choose shells, coral and wooden beads instead.