Suit Yourself: Sexy swimwear that flatters the figure

Another alternative to the archaic skirted bikini is to use extra fabric that sits over the bikini bottom - think fitted boy shorts, but in skirt form - won't give as much coverage as a sarong or skirt, but it will make for a slimmer transition where the hip meets the thigh.

From bust to belly to booty, these suits have got you covered - but it's never too late to work what Mother Nature gave you. With summer being a prime time to hit the pool for laps and do some beachfront backstrokes, there are plenty of sporty swimsuit options that are sure to up the cute factor while you're working up a sweat. And according to Peterson, swimming is one of the best ways to get that beach-worthy body.

"Swimming offers a lot of benefits that land lovers are hard pressed to get," said Peterson via his cell phone from Los Angeles last week. "It's easier to work multiple muscle groups against the resistance in the water, yet it's not at a level where you can't complete it. Plus it's less jarring on the joints."

For a suit that is as fashionable as it is functional, The Swim Feature Suit by Stella McCartney for Adidas is as sexy as can be, but is designed for competition. The one-piece is cut to allow for optimal movement in the water, and the sleek design of visible seams and a racer back top back make the body look slim and smooth.

With choices like these, beautifying the beach with your body is as simple as suiting up.