Do you dream of a warm, sunny beach far, far away to unwind and forget all about winter's deep freeze?

Join the bikini brigade of teens and young twentysomethings who will be heading south over the next few months.

But suiting up for your seaside debut starts now as shops stock up daily on the newest, hottest swim styles.

"Bikinis are very important, especially the strapless and bandeau styles," says Fay Yeung, owner of Sandpiper Sports & Funwear. "We will also be seeing a halter revival and a lot of '60s influences like tie-dye, paisleys and fringe trims."

Yeung says runway fashions -- both sports and evening wear -- are inspiring swimwear trends today. "Women can actually cross dress now," adds Yeung, pointing to Shan's fringed, suede, triangle swim top that works double-duty at the beach or in the clubs at night.

Another strong swim trend this season is the non-structured suit. "Our emphasis is on softer suits," says Simon Southwood of Sauvage, a San Diego-based swimsuit company known for its edgy designs.

Southwood notes this season low rider bikinis with straighter-cut bottoms are hot sellers in sunny California, especially in metal mesh, glossy leopard and wet-look fabrics.

"Some of our suits shouldn't even see the water," jokes Southwood. "They're more for putting on your high heels and walking up to the bar."

Swim trends

Texture and shine fabrics: Gold velvet, suede, reptile and animal prints, metal mesh, metallics and wet-look fabrics.

Details: Gold hardware, piping, metallic embroidery, long fringe, beaded fringe, novelty sequin and flower appliques, perforated suedes, stylized florals.

Shapes: Low-rider bikinis, straighter cut bottoms, triangle and halter tops, bandeau tops (straight or gathered), tankinis (combining tank top and bikini bottom) and bandinis (combining bandeau top and bikini bottom).

Photo: SHAN...washable fringed suede triangle top, $185, and swim shorts, $195.