Time to dive into the surf with a new wave of swimsuits hitting the beach nearest you. What? Are those moans and groans I hear? While it is true that the search for the perfect swimsuit may not be one of the most pleasant things most of us do this time of year, we can still breathe a big sigh of relief when we finally do find that perfect string bikini ... or yes, even that classic black one-piece.

But there are lots of swimwear options floating around out there this summer. So treat yourself to a spray tan, pedicure and some flip-flop at the mall. Time to dive in. Here are some of the best swimwear trends you'll see in the stores and online:

—The Retro Rewind — This is the biggest news in swimwear that harks back to the glamorous pin-up stars of the '40s and '50s with boy-short bikinis and shirred one-shoulder maillots. The banded halter with wider straps is also making a comeback. The good news this year? You can actually swim in these bathing beauties.

—The Vintage Vantage — Even if the swimsuit you like doesn't shape up to all the movie-star drama, you can still get some vintage flair with the prints and patterns you choose. Swimwear designers are mad for retro plaids, tropical florals and picnic ginghams. Paisley scarf prints and lacy crochets also make a big splash this season.

—Block it with Color — Brighten up your wardrobe for the poolside this summer with a stark modern take on vivid colors — from neons to pastels — juxtaposed in graphic patterns. Lemon yellow is a sunny favorite. The black and white color blocked suits are another way to put some edge into your swim attire.

—The Bandeau Bikini — If you feel a little "exposed" in a string bikini but love the look of a two-piece, this suit may be the one for you, especially if you have a bigger bust that will support the "no-strap" top. Just watch those dives from the high board. Go for some ruffles if you are smaller on top.

—Take the Plunge — Another way to heat up the pool party — a swimsuit with a plunging neckline. This silhouette obviously works best for those of us with smaller bust lines, but this is a sexy suit that you wear at your own risk! By the way, the white one-piece is one of the favorite styles taking the plunge this summer.

—Cut it Out — Whether it's a suit with sliced-out panels on the side, the neckline or the midriff, suits with cut-outs are one of the most popular ways to show a little skin at the beach this summer. For those who may not like to bare quite so much, check out the suits with sheer inserts in all the right places.

—Animal Instincts — Go ahead and get a little wild. Keep your eye out for leopard printed bikinis, zebra-printed maillots or python foil-printed boy shorts. Copper metallic suits are the shining stars. Going on a beach safari has never been this much fun!

—Covering Up — To some of us, the beach cover-up may be even more important than the swimsuit itself! There are so many ways to do this — from sheer colorful shirts to oversized sarong scarves. This summer, the maxi sundress is a real winner for fun in (and out) of the sun.

(SET CAPTION) The graphic patterns get a lemony slice of fun in the sun at Lands' End in this v-neck tankini with a buttercup yellow mini skirt. (www.landsend.com) (END CAPTION)

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.