Okay, so if you live anywhere near where Elepharts lives and you're currently watching an ice/sleet/snow hybrid pelting down from the heavens, you might not exactly have summertime beach party fun on your mind... or maybe you do. What better way is there after all to snap yourself out of those winter blues than dreaming about a nice day at the beach? And if you're dreaming of yourself on that beach, and of course you are, what are you going to be wearing? Well, that's where Bikini.com comes in as they have gone ahead and scoured the designer runways to report on the most cutting edge looks for 2011. Here now then are the Top 11 Swimwear Trends (top 10 is sooo 2010):
1. The "Bottom Line" – The top trend is detailing on the derriere. Whether you're built like Kim Kardashian or just want to look that way, strategic ruching and subtle stitch details can add oomph to what you already have and flatter and enhance what you don't.
2. Retro Glam – From debutantes of the 50's to Mad Men of the 60's and Studio 54 disco divas of the 70's, today's ultra-glamorous women are looking to the past for inspiration. High-waisted, two piece swimsuits figure prominently in this elegant vintage trend.
3. World Safari – Break out your passport, the tribe has spoken. Designers featured all kinds of hot ethnic looks with Native American, Moroccan, Aboriginal Australian and especially African inspiration. It's exotic sex appeal for citizens of the world with a fun sense of adventure.
4. Sparkle -- This season, give 'em the old razzle dazzle with studs, beads, sequins, rhinestones and any other kinds of embellishment that add splash to a swimsuit. Whether you're a Jersey Shore fan or a Las Vegas showgirl, there's a sparkly, showstopping look for you.
5. The Gold Standard -- Glamorous metallics in glossy high-tech fabrics are a luxurious trend worth mining. This season's swimsuits are dripping in gold, bronze and copper, giving every beachgoer the Midas Touch.
6. Boudoir Chic -- Break out the satin sheets: From bras to bustiers, racy-lacy swimsuits in everything from soft pastels to black lace are taking lingerie from the bedroom to the beach.
7. Software with Hardware – Swimsuits are held together this season with prominent metal buckles, buttons and rings that add a luxe, jewelry-like accent to sleek designs.
8. Shiny Happy Prints -- Playful paisleys, groovy geometrics, and fun flowers and fruits in eyecatching, vibrant bursts of color provide an antidote to minimalist and monochromatic looks. These bold, bright patterns give everyone the opportunity to break out and have fun with their swimwear.
9. Wild Thing – Animal prints manage to be both a trend and a timeless classic. Leopard, tiger, crocodile, python and even peacock can bring out the sexy wild thing in you.
10. Americana – From crisp and chic nautical stripes to preppy madras, collegiate looks and sweet summer gingham, this season's swimsuits are as hot as apple pie.
11. Peekaboo – Naughty meets nice with monokini cutaways and strategically placed cutouts that emphasize the feminine form and show off a body to its best advantage. Keyholes, bondage strips and see-through bands of fabric give a "peekaboo" effect that will definitely set you apart from the crowd.
VIDEO: Top 11 Swimwear Trends 2011