Want to look fashionable on the beach or by the pool this season? Bandeau swimsuits are one of the most popular styles for 2014 and are being shown in everything from one piece looks to itsy bitsy bikinis. Feminine and sexy, bandeau swimsuits are flattering choices for many women, and you can find styles in solids and prints to perfectly suit your tastes and accentuate your figure.

What Are Bandeau Swimsuits?

Bandeau swimsuits are one or two piece bathing suits with a specific style of neckline. The traditional silhouette of bandeau swimsuits is a strapless top that either travels straight across or is curved to dip down between the breasts. You can also find hybrid bandeau swimsuits that have a straight or curved bodice and wide set straps that travel over the shoulders and around the neck. These bandeau swimsuits are sometimes called "bandeau halters."

The Benefits of Bandeau Swimsuits

There are many reasons why bandeau swimsuits are popular choices for swimwear this season. The bandeau is a classic silhouette that has distinctive vintage appeal. The neckline has a timeless style that never really fades from fashion, making a bandeau swimsuits a look that you can wear year after year. For women with smaller bust lines, bandeau swimsuits without straps are very flattering designs. Women with larger bust lines often love the halter style, which provides lift through the chest while still giving the look of a classic bandeau. Some halter neck tops also have built-in underwires to better support the breasts.

Choosing the Right Bandeau Style

To find the best bandeau bathing suit for your body, think about which areas you want to accentuate and which you want to disguise or make smaller in appearance. Bold and bright colors and large prints will call attention to the figure while dark colors and small prints will minimize trouble zones. Fringe and ruffles accents, however, can help mask a large bust for women who are bigger on top.