By Kristin Hull

Summer brings with it so many wonderful things – longer days, warmer weather, time with the kids, bike rides, picnics, vacations and pool parties. Whoa, back up. Pool parties? If the thought such an event sends chills down your spine and puts fear in your heart you’re not alone. Fortunately though, designers have gotten on board and started to make swimsuits with real women in mind, not just those whose age ends with the word “teen.”

Our bodies aren’t what they used to be

Whether it be age, having given birth, or both, our bodies have definitely changed. And instead of fighting these changes we need to learn to work with them, especially when it comes to being seen in public in a bathing suit. As you can see in the photo above, we’ve found some excellent options that are not only body-friendly but stylish too. Keep in mind that dark colors, busy patterns and ruching all help to camouflage flaws, and that most strapless come with removable straps. Lastly, absolutely, positively do NOT skimp on quality.

Why it’s worth it to pay more

If you’re going to spend a little more on any garment in your wardrobe, it should be the swimsuit. When you’re going to be practically naked in public, you want something that will make you look your best and not expose anything the world shouldn’t see. Most inexpensive swimsuits are made with fabrics that will sag, wear, stretch out and fade. None of those things are even close to being okay. And as a mom, your bathing suit has to do double duty. You often don’t have both hands free to hold it in place or pull it up when it starts to stray so quality is essential.

Now, let’s shop!

(top row, left to right)

Simply Be Bandeau Swimsuit ($59.95/Simply Be): This slimming suit comes in sizes 8-28. It not only offers tummy control but the white side panels give the illusion of a narrow torso.

Commando Ikat Maillot ($188/Commando – free shipping over $100): Get two suits for the price of one with this reversible style. One side is a trendy, vertical ikat print (can you say slimming?) and the other, classic polka-dot. The v-neck helps to elongate the body. Funny, the description on the website says, “This is definitely not your mom’s one-piece.” Why? Because it’s actually cute? We’ll show them!

Beach Blanket Bingo One-Piece ($89.99/Modcloth – click here for sizes 4-14 and here for 16-26): Go for the vintage look with this adorable polka-dot bathing suit that comes in sizes 4-26. And from the number of positive reviews and customer photos it seems like a great buy that’s universally flattering.

(middle row, left to right)

Lauren Ralph Lauren Strapless Bandeau Swimsuit (now $81.75, reg. $109/Bloomingdale’s – free returns!): If you’re not happy with your mid-section, a loose, drapey style will help hide that area.

Solid Rita Miraclesuit ($114/Miraclesuit – free shipping and returns on U.S. orders!): This is actually a tankini, and one of the few that we approve of. Most of them are too matronly, and they fall just above the gut exposing one of the parts we want to hide the most. This one, however, is long and the ruffles help keep that dreaded area hidden away. Plus, it’s a Miraclesuit which means it will hold you in all over. Pick from over ten colors.

Net Work Jena Miraclesuit ($152/Miraclesuit – free shipping and returns on U.S. orders!): I own this bathing suit and loooove it! The sheer panels give it some sex appeal but it’s still appropriate for a family outing. Plus, it holds in all my jiggly parts.

(bottom row, left to right)

Ella Moss Floral One-PIece Swimsuit (now $88.50, reg. $118/Bloomingdale’s – free returns!): Pretty pastel flowers and slimming side panels make this suit trendy and flattering.

J. Crew Grid Dot Wrap Tank ($98/J. Crew): Like the famous Diane Von Furstenburg wrap dress, this bathing suit will work on most body types. It comes in three colors – orange, blue and black.

Profile by Gottex 2013 Tutti-Fruitti Rose Bandeau Swimsuit ($81.92/Nordstrom – free shipping both ways!): The ruffle on this cute, retro swimsuit goes all the way around helping to camouflage the butt and hips but giving it a flirty feel.