Summer's officially here, and there's no getting around this reality: A caftan cannot magically be turned into a swimsuit.
Now is a good time to shop (either in stores or online) because of great sales and ample styles to choose from.
And manufacturers continue to offer suits that suit women's needs for coverage, control and comfort.
Design is important, too.
"This season, swimwear takes a lot of cues from traditional shapewear, which women wear underneath their regular clothing," says Michele Casper of Lands' End.
And you don't have to give up fashion for function. This season, the Web site www.landsend.com provides a virtual "island" of shopping options. Just click on a destination and you'll find suits inspired by Greece, Italy, Spain and Morocco.
Back in Sacramento, Diana Williams boasts 25 years perfecting the art of buying a swimsuit. When we asked readers for their tips, we learned that her system covers all the bases. As she puts it: "Start with preparation – both physical and mental!"
"I shop at a high-end department store with good lighting and adequate inventory," Williams says. "I wear smooth pantyhose and a front-closing bra. Then I select several sizes close to and including mine, in a variety of styles.
"The goal is to undress once and try on the suits until I find the one."
Williams makes "no and possibly" piles. Her criteria? A suit with the proper fit, color and cut that accentuate her body and provide comfort. "I use the sales clerk to fetch suit sizes, and I've learned to took in the mirror and not focus on the flaws."
Look for stores and online shopping sources that offer tops and bottoms in different sizes. It's rare that a woman has the same proportions from bust to bum.
Once you've found a suit, take care of your investment.
Casper of Lands' End says chlorine, salt – and even sunscreen – can be harmful to a suit.
"What I suggest is that you rinse your swimsuit in cold water immediately after going in the pool or ocean," she says. "If you're a lap swimmer, don't stick it in your gym bag with the chemicals still on it. Eventually, the lycra (and the shape) will break down."
Handwash and allow a suit to dry flat. Never put it in the dryer.
If you enjoy sitting by the pool, make sure to put down a towel first. That way the concrete won't pull at the tiny fibers in your suit, resulting in "pilling."
For women who have undergone mastectomies, Enhance by Linda Reib (4811 Chippendale Drive, Sacramento) carries mastectomy swimwear year-round.
"We have pocketed, higher- neckline swimwear to accommodate a breast prosthesis in a variety of fabrics and colors," Reib says. "We also carry tankinis and two-piece suits."
Another service Reib offers is an in-store seamstress for help with customizing a suit.
Call The Bee's Leigh Grogan, (916) 321-1129.
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