It’s always an agonizing process to buy that swimsuit for the summer or your overseas vacation. Looking at yourself in the mirror you’re already trying to visualize your body in a variety of suits. Unfortunately, none of them suit your taste and now you’re stuck for an answer. Here are a few tips to help you over this particular obstacle:

• Decide what kind of body shape you have.
• Decide whether you want a designer swimsuit or just a normal everyday swimsuit.
• How much do you want to spend on it? This would depend on how often you intend to wear it. If it’s just for the vacation then you may be better off buying a less expensive swimsuit. If you’re going to be wearing it regularly throughout the summer, it may be worth your while to invest in a more expensive suit.
• What type of suit you want will depend on whether you’re going to be using for both swimming and sunbathing or just sunbathing.

Once you’ve determined the answers to all these questions, you also need to consider where you’ll be wearing your swimsuit: Next to the pool or in the ocean? This will have a great influence on which type of swimsuit you buy. If you’re going to be braving the waves of the ocean, it will be advisable to get a suit that is sturdy and can hold up against the onslaught of the water. The last thing you want is to be undressed by the ocean. Poolside swimwear can be more flimsy and shouldn’t be too much of a problem when swimming. Either way the key is to feel comfortable and confident.

Choose your best looking swimsuit and have a ball in or out of the water. Have a great vacation!

When looking for the latest jewellery trends, it is always wise to look at what is happening on the catwalk, as well as look at those enjoying the show. At the recent fashion shows held around the world, the following was quite obvious: Bold and bright is beautiful.

There seems to be a penchant for cross-jewellery: Pendants, rings, earrings etc. The trend of big and bold also holds true for the casual style jewellery. Chunky rings and bracelets, dangling earrings and statement jewellery are the order of the day and make mixing and matching with your wardrobe a lot of fun. It also doesn’t have to cost you a fortune – unless, of course, you insist on gold and diamonds.

Statement jewellery brings a big ‘notice me’ board with them and should preferably be worn alone. The message of the statement should not be lost among multiple bracelets or sparkly earrings. Rather choose one piece of statement jewellery and work it to its full advantage.

Wood, brass, beads and silver make up jewellery fashion along with custom-made pieces that lend your collection an air of exclusivity. There is a focus on local themes in contrast to last year’s African themes with tribal beads, seeded beads etc. Use materials found locally and be creative with the jewellery that they produce.

Having said all that, there also seems to be a move to use more blacks, whites, blues, greens and greys to give the jewellery a look of strength.Use your colourful wardrobe and beautiful accessories in combinations that express your individuality and your personality. Remember: Whatever the style or the trend, jewels adorn you – not the other way around.