Dear Betsy, I am dreading the hot weather season and having to wear a swimsuit. I am only 158cm tall and weigh more than 84 kilos and never feel good. I have a 38D bust and need suggestions on how to buy a good comfortable swimsuit.

Breeda.

Dear Breeda,

Not all of us have been blessed with those long legs and skinny figures that look great on the beach, but not to worry, this is a situation where brains and optical illusions can definitely win the day!

If you don't feel good in a bikini then the modern version of a cross between a one-piece swimsuit and a bikini - the tankini - is a perfect alternative. This is a two-piece with a long top that covers a multitude of sins and keeps you cool too.

There are three things to bear in mind when you are buying a tankini that will suit your body type, Breeda.

First of all, the colour will be more flattering if it is in a dark shade such as chocolate brown or that lovely olive green that is so fashionable right now. These colours are not only more slimming, but will also compliment most skin tones, especially at the beginning of the season until you develop a healthy tan.

Next, the shape of the bottoms are important. With shorter legs and a few extra kilos, avoid bottoms that are in the style of shorts and those with low cut legs as these styles will shorten your legs and add bulk to your thighs. Instead, opt for high cut legs and tankini bottoms that come up to the waist rather than stop at the hips.

Lastly, with your bust size, a good supportive top is important. Look for under-wired tops, preferably with wide halter-neck style straps to slim and balance your figure.

Avoid those halter styles with two little spaghetti straps that start from the middle of the top and do a strangle hold of your neck. Alternatively, a traditional under-wired top with wide shoulder straps will be both comfortable and flattering.

If the tankini option does not appeal then try some of the sexy one-piece suits with built-in figure support. These include tummy control fabrics and bum-lifting features and they can really shape and flatter your figure.

Remember, the rules about high-cut legs and a good control top and you won't go far wrong.

Taking care of your swimsuit after bathing can really help prolong the life of the garment. Rinse immediately and wash with hot soapy water and rinse well and hang to dry.

We all know that feeling of jumping in the pool only to find the elastic in your swimsuit is no longer as effective as it was, so follow the above rules to help stop the elastic from rotting.

If I find a fab tankini then I usually buy two pairs of the bottoms to avoid being left with a drawer full of wearable tankini tops but no bottoms!

Apart from anything else Breeda, it is important that you feel body confidence when you are pool or beach lounging.

Of course, this is where I have to tell you that following a strict diet and exercise regime will reap long-term benefits, but what if you need body confidence this week?

Try making the most of your assets and prepare yourself. Begin with removing those layers of wintery, dead skin cells by exfoliating either with a shop bought body scrub or make a yummy homemade one.

Mix together two cups of sugar, the juice of half a lemon and two tablespoons of olive oil and a few drops of your favourite aromatherapy oil. Rub vigorously over damp skin and rinse well in a warm shower, paying particular attention to hard skin areas such as the feet, elbows and knees.

Now, apply your favourite body lotion for super smooth skin. If you want a bit of a natural glow then try one of the easy to use fake tan products to ensure you avoid the 'pint of milk' look.

It is best to remember that the only safe tan is a fake tan and you need to use sun protection creams when you are in the sun and, indeed, even when you are in the shade, to avoid potential skin damage.

Use a minimum of SPF 15 and reapply often and especially after bathing.

Avoid dehydration by drinking lots of mineral water, and wear a hat to keep your hair in good condition and help you keep your cool.

For an elegant beach cover-up to wear over your swimsuit, try one of the fashionable loose kaftan tops available in Debenhams, British Home Stores and in Marks & Spencer's.

They also look good worn over skinny jeans and strappy sandals for a versatile 'day into evening look'.

BETSY SAYS RELAX

This is the time of the year when a little of what you fancy does you good! Try a cooling yet energising 'affogato al caffe'. Pour a cup of freshly-made strong black coffee over a couple of scoops of vanilla ice cream and enjoy.

It works just as well with decaffeinated coffee and even better if you dare to use Baskin and Robbins Pralines and Cream instead of vanilla.

Enjoy, and don't feel guilty.

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS WEEK

Spring is the time of renewal and re-energising your life. Find time to clean out those drawers and cupboards and pack away your winter woolies. Write a list of the six most important things you want to achieve in the next three months and make an action plan.

That equates to an average of two things a month to work on and forward planning means you are more likely to come up trumps.