By Melissa Singer
You say swimmers, I say bathers ... and I have never been able to get used to togs or cossies, but hey, we can still talk about what looks good.
But I recognise that for some people, shopping for swimwear is up there with a root canal treatment.
If you're thinking of venturing out, a good idea is to start at a swimwear superstore, where they have all the major brands and you can try tons of suits until you find one you like, or at least a shape so you know how to better target other stores.
This summer, the style that's hot to trot is the long-sleeved cossie.
Sexier and more fun than a plain-Jane rashie while still offering the best UV protection (but check the label), designers have finally caught up with the fact that sun smart doesn't equal boring.
Who's doing it ... and how to work it
Frankly, the inspiration for this column was seeing Elle Macpherson on the cover of Elle magazine last month wearing a long-sleeve, high-neck one-piece by Preen.
This picture of Beyonce wearing a Mara Hoffman long-sleeve one-piece while frolicking in Hawaii in June needs little introduction.
Follow Queen Bey and go for something bright and patterned, if you want to make it clear you're not wearing a leotard, or go sleek and monochrome, with some cut-outs for added chic.
On the runway, the long-sleeve swimsuit has had a very beach-to-bar treatment, such as this one by Agua de Coco.
Long-sleeve doesn't have to be completely covered, as shown in this Belusso two-piece.
Where to get it
Florals, ethnic prints and geometrics are just some of the stand-out ways labels are doing the long sleeve, so dive on in.