Ready or not it's swimsuit season. The beach is becoming the weekend's best bet and there's nothing like a Sunday afternoon poolside. So with the water arts taking up so much of our time, it's only right that we make a splash with our swimsuit style.

But on the real, have you seen the price of gas lately? You might just go broke before you even make it to the beach. So we've figured out a couple ways to save on your swimsuit without sacrificing the style. It all starts with following the basic rule of swimsuit wear. Follow this rule and you can look good going cheap.

Rule #1: Material and cut are the most important things when buying a suit. Larger on top -- go for a halter. Thick in the thighs -- you might want to check out some boy shorts. Despite popular belief, Lycra is a girl's best friend when it comes to swimwear. So go for something with stretch and structure.

Start by scouring some of your favorite high end stores for the basic cut you like. After that, go the discount route for close look-a-likes. Here are a couple I found.

Compare if you will.....

SPLURGE: J.Crew is an all time favorite for swimwear. And this little black bikini number is a classic. Notice the rich looking bamboo embellishments. Top: $54 and Bottom: $50.

SPLASH: Go for Target's similar style with this black number that features cute gold embellishments. Price: Top and Bottom $14.99 each.

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SPLURGE: If the bandeau is your cup of tea, there's nothing better than choosing a color that pops. And the cute little tie up bottoms add to the overall 70s look. J.Crew serves up this orange number. Top: $40.00 Bottom: $38.00.

SPLASH: This beachy blue two piece comes in the same cut, but in a different color. Same adorable bottoms with the ties on the sides, but for a whole lot less: Top: $17.99  Bottom: $34.99.

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SPLURGE: If the one piece is your steez, go for a sexy look with a key-hole style. This olive colored J.Crew one piece clocks in at: $125.00.

SPLASH: You can get the same coverage and darling key-hole in this gray colored one piece available at Target. The metal embellishments give it a luxe look. One piece: $29.99.

~ Deal Diva Nicole

(Photos: www.jcrew.com/www.target.com)