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(from left) La Blanca by Rod Beattie Animal Print Tankini $77.00, Juicy Couture Smocked Tankini $107.00, Profile by Gottex Tankini $78.00. All available at Nordstrom Swim Shop

This past weekend, temperatures rose well about the nineties and its only spring. The hot weather got a couple of my girlfriends thinking about summer and asked me if I can go swimwear shopping with them. We hit Nordstrom and found such an extensive selection that we didn't shop anywhere else.I told them tankini is the way to go. They are versatile. You can easily wear tankini tops with denim jeans or shorts. And they are not to revealing.

Most of you ladies probably bought that sexy but tasteful ( I hope) swimsuit for summer. And for those who are still shopping or haven't started yet, here are some 'Smart Styles' you can refer to.

• First, decide on the swimwear. One piece, bikini, tankini or a two piece suit.  Pick the one you're comfortable wearing and compliments your body type.
• Next, style, color and functionality. There's a fine line between looking sexy and tacky or trampy. Avoid swimwear that make you look like your competing in a beauty pagaent. I.e. pleats, chiffon,  and to much embellishments. 
• If your planning on just lounging and bathing under the sun,  get a suit that is meant for lounging. And same goes if your planning on getting in the water, pick a suit that looks great when wet and avoid swimwear that just have to much going on. If budget permits, buy both.
• Invest on a tunic or cover-up. An alternative for that beach towel. Trendy and less bulky to.
• Lastly, the most important element to feel and look fabulous in a swimsuit this summer is, You! Don't forget the sun block, shave or wax. Add some accessories a straw bag, hat, flip flops, etc. And have fun, work it!

DKNY Colorblock Halter Swimsuit $96.00 Dillard's

La Bianca Stripe Halter and Hipster Bottom $136.00 Dillard's

Experiment with patterns and colors but to a tasteful minimum.

Calvin Klein Palm Print Tankini Set $120.00 Macy's

Perry Ellis Halter and Skirted Bottom $110.00 Macy's