It’s January 18th, there’s frost on the ground, and I’m wearing Uniqlo thermals under every inch of clothing… it’s not the most obvious time to be scouring pictures of nearly-nude women for outfit inspiration. But I have a deadline. In a month, I’m going to be (drenched in factor 50 suncream, complaining about freckles and heatstroke) on a beautiful beach in Thailand – so it’s time to dive in and warm up with a look at the hottest swimwear picks for Spring 2012…

Last year was undeniably outstanding for swimwear, with (what felt like) an infinite stream of styles, prints and colours bombarding us from every direction. And 2012 already looks like it’s going to be similarly bountiful – although I am disappointed not to see a great expansion in ranges beyond a G/GG cup as yet. H cups and beyond, I can only recommend getting in early if you see a style you like. Competition for those sorely under-served sizes is always fierce.

Hold on to your hats. It’s going to be quite a season…

First things first: Lucille is back – and she’s blue. Panache’s gorgeous nautical inspired range and star of 2011 returns with an even more nautical twist, available up to a G cup from 20th February – sadly (so sadly) too late to accompany me on my Asian adventure. A total classic though – well worth walking the plank for. Ahoy!

Curvy Kate’s long awaiting first swimwear collection launches this year, diving straight in all the way up to a K cup from the off. Hurrah! Cute, colourful with a classically Curvy Kate twist (hello ruffles!) – the three styles are a great alternative for those sizes pushed in to the black and bland territory by their cup size. Look forward to trying these out for size this year.

Also coming to the rescue of the much neglected H+ cups is Bravissimo, with this fruity number available now and all the way up to the K cup. The catch? It’s called the Copacabana. Good luck trying to get that song out of your head now…

This super cute Gingham Girl bikini – especially when paired with these cheeky, 50s inspired high waisted knickers – by Miss Mandalay. They’re not in store yet but they are due to be sold in Bravissimo this year. WANT. The only trouble is, I can’t seem to pin down sizing information – will they be reserved for our small cupped sisters, or will they boldly follow last year’s beautiful Harbour bikini in to the echelons of the HHs? Anyone?

Still with me? Hurrah! I have a lot of love for Figleaves‘ own Midnight Grace range, and this year they’ve come back with even more cute prints. Sadly we’re back in to G-only territory cup-wise, but I love the pin-up style of these halter bikinis and swimsuits. Super cute. More sizes please Figleaves!

And last but absolutely not least, Freya‘s new lines come in a huge range of prints – festively all named after dances to get you in to the summer spirit. I have to say my favourite is the (gingham, again) Lindy Hop (below left, to a GG), but it isn’t released until April. Boo. Still, until then there’s the lovely Swing Lagoon (middle), and the super-bright Calypso, which sees Freya swim paddling in bigger cups, but only for 32-38 backs. Also look out for the Charleston, which seems to be the endlessly popular Pier but with bows. Cute!

I need a lie down. What’s your favourite?