It's the one fashion item every woman hates to shop for -- the bathing suit! If you're already scheming for a way to avoid a trip to the beach this summer you are not alone. "The way that I avoid going in the water is by telling everyone, including my husband, that I'm afraid of the water," admits Christie Kostantas, who has not bought a suit in seven years. "I just wish I could feel comfortable in a bathing suit." Click on the video above to see Christie's story and click through the image gallery at right to see her new look. With a little help from plus-size model Emme, she'll be trotting around in her swimwear with confidence ... and so can you! Emme suggests these tips for finding the perfect swimsuit no matter what your body type. [And, she's taking your questions here!](/club/board/show/153/) **Check yourself out in the mirror.** Before you go shopping, take a good look at your figure and pick out your best features. Then, try suits that accentuate your best assets and consider styles to improve problem areas. **Pick a bathing suit one size larger than your lingerie size.** "It has to fit everywhere," Emme points out. So don't feel badly if the suit is bigger than your dress size -- it should be! **Ruching can slim a mid-section.** Want a flatter stomach? Try suits where the fabric is gathered in the center to conceal extra curves. **Use the shape of the suit to elongate your body and get a long, slim look.** Try a high cut in the hip for longer legs and a halter top to lengthen a torso.