Halterneck Swimsuit from Marks and Spencer

The Marks and Spencer sale started today and there is up to 50% off many items including clothing, shoes and accessories.  There is also a great selection of swimwear available, so it's a great opportunity to get ready for the coming months in savvy style!

I'm really impressed with the range as there's something for everyone: maternity swimsuits, post-surgery swimsuits, underwired bikini tops for extra support, skirted and regular swimsuits.  For me though, nothing beats a bit of tummy control and, as such, I've picked this pink and white spotty halterneck swimsuit.  Not only is it a gorgeous shape, pattern and colour, it's got a hidden control panel to keep the waist in! Originally £29.50, it's been reduced to £21 in the sale.  Stock on all items is selling out quickly, so it's worth taking a look at everything in the sale soon!

Summer Staple: Copacabana Crochet One Piece Swimsuit from Free People

I can hear you now.  A swimsuit?  In this weather, in winter?  Are you mad?  Maybe, but I have been coveting this item since the summer and, now that it's come down in price, I am tempted to purchase it for summer 2014!

I adore this Lisa Maree crocheted one-piece swimsuit from Free People.  Obviously, it can be worn as a daring swimsuit, with its deep V-neck and crocheted pattern in the front.  But it could also be worn as a summer top, teamed with a sarong or fab maxi skirt to take one from the pool to the bar.   Originally £138 it's now £99.95 and is still available in sizes extra-small to large.

Summer Staple: Charming Bouquet Balconette Bikini from La Perla

We are inching towards summer and my thoughts are truly at the beach.  And with perfect timing, selected La Perla beachwear is on sale.  There's up to 40% off beautiful and luxurious bikinis, swimsuits and many other accessories.

I've picked this floral balconette underwired bikini as it's pretty and flattering.  Balconette bikinis and bras are brilliant as they push the breasts up from underneath, giving fantastic support, and they enhance the chest.  However, they don't crush the breasts together so this style boosts the bust and cleavage in an understated and sophisticated manner.  And the watercolour floral print is delicate and lovely!

This bikini has been reduced from £369 to £221 in the outlet section of the online store and delivery is free for orders over £105.

What is your bikini style preference?  Do you prefer a balconette style?  Or is a halterneck or bandeau more your thing?  Add your views below!

Summer Staple: Pink & Green Floral Belted Bathing Suit from Unique Vintage

There's 20% off at Unique Vintage until tomorrow (28th May) with the code MEM20 so it's a great opportunity to stock up on some fab, retro pieces!

I love this pink, white and green floral swimsuit.  Fabulously retro, it's flattering in all the right places, with a modest but pretty sweetheart neckline and belted for a defined, feminine shape.  The pink ruffles add to the delicacy of this swimsuit.

Normally $97, with the discount it is $77.60 (about £51) and shipping is about $36 (£24).  It comes in sizes small to extra-large.

Summer Staple: Betsey Johnson Forget Me Not Bikini from Bloomingdales

Bloomingdales is one of those amazing, iconic American stores which stocks some gorgeous designer brands and it now ships to the UK which is great!  They are currently offering 25% off selected swimwear until the 27th May, so I have been perusing the site for something interesting and different.

I have loved the designer Betsey Johnson for years but haven't really seen her products in the UK, although I believe there is a store in London.  Her collections are retro but still contemporary and feminine.  They are also really fun, unique and pretty - like this Forget Me Not bikini.  The azure blue is a gorgeous colour and I love the crochet and rose details.  I think the ruffled skirt gives an element of femininity but also can cover up and flatter, if needs be.  Both the top and the bottoms are each reduced from £60.48 to £45.36.  Postage-wise, orders over £100 cost £5 shipping (which is great value from the USA), so it may be worth getting one's order above that figure!

If there's anything else that is of interest on the site, by signing up to the newsletter, customers can get 10% off a future order.

Summer Staple: Blue Spot Halterneck Swimsuit from Evans

There's 20% off swimwear at Evans until the 20th May, so it's a great opportunity to update your swimsuit with something flattering and fabulous!  And this is just what this blue spotty halterneck swimming costume is.    The cut and style is pure Marilyn Monroe, flattering the neckline and bust and minimising the waist for a fantastic hourglass silhouette.  It's slightly padded and underwired, so will give great support, and its classic, retro shape will never go out of fashion.  It's a real bargain too normally, at just £32, but with 20% off it's just £25.60 and comes in sizes 14 to 32.  No code is needed - the discount will be applied at the checkout automatically.