In an annual ritual of torture, I recently summoned up the courage to face the three-way mirrors at Nordstrom, hoping to find a flattering bathing suit (read: miracle). I’m willing to shell out money for a butt-transforming swimsuit, but the decidedly average suits I tried on were not worth the high prices.

I hit the mall running (how many calories does shopping burn?), and set out to find affordable swimwear in this year’s hottest trends. From metallics and nautical prints to florals and bright colors, check out the results of my shopping excursion and discover how easy - on your wallet, at least - braving the beach can be.

(Image credit: Target.com)