Ah, what a relief! The sun is finally making an appearance today, and while the temps aren’t soaring, it still reminds me that summer is pretty much here and that bathing suit season has officially arrived. Before dread washes over don’t fear, there are oodles of options out there that will compliment various body types, and I am also including some secret tips so help you look long, lean, and luscious while lounging poolside.
My first BIG time tip is to buy your bathing suits in a larger size than you would normally wear. Why? Because you don’t want to pinch and squeeze the fat of course. We all have an area on our bodies that we would like to minimize, for many of us women out there with extra-fleshy hips buying a bigger suit (bottom – if a two piece) definitely comes in handy. The best style to don when scaling down the hips is the tie up bottom. If you wear a size 4 normally buy an 8 instead and tie the bows toward the front instead of the middle so that the focal point is the girly bow and not the area you’d rather forget.
If you’re not super well-endowed, while it may seem opposite to buy larger, you should still do it… especially if you’re planning to don a triangle style. Why? When you go smaller, you’re drawing attention to a small bustline, however, if you go a little bigger it will cover more surface area creating the illusion of a fuller upper half. Other good options for small chested lassies are bandeau styles adorned with ruffles again to create the illusion of more fullness
Bikinis aren’t the only swimsuits on the market… One pieces are actually making a big comeback with retro-styles taking a lead and monokinis making a definite mark. I love the 1950’s Esther Williams styles that are done in halter styles, that almost look like ultra-mini dresses. These styles are not only fun and flirty but also super flattering and would look good on a stick thin figure or someone with a little meat on her bones. Monokinis on the other hand, aren’t for the shy and reserved. These one pieces with strategically cut-out sections showing off whatever… These styles are NOT easy to wear and guarantee a second glance or two, however if you have the nerve monokinis are a great alternative to the standard bikini – but be warned, will cause strange tan lines.
What styles should you avoid altogether?! I say a resounding “NO” to any athletic style one pieces. (Picture the high school swim team.) These bathing suits really don’t look good on ANYONE – they automatically take away all curves and flatten out the chest instantly! If you want to look like a boy this is the suit for you.
I am also not partial to bikini bottoms that don’t have the ability to be adjusted – again because of the fat pinching – however if you are blessed with bones and no pudge then give it a try.
Another thing to remember, is always rinse out your suit after a day in the sun. It’s important to get the sunscreen, chlorine, or salt water off your suit as soon as possible as these things will wear away at the elastic in the suit and make it unwearable.
So what about all the ladies out there who just can’t stand the thought of a bathing suit PERIOD?! Beach cover ups are chic and fun to wear, and look absolutely beautiful on the sidelines. I love caftan and tunic styles in whisper thin chiffon-like fabrics that offer a peek of what’s beneath but keep areas you want to keep a secret hidden. If your comfortable showing some skin, mini ruffly skirts are super cute to throw on and keep your bum covered up while you make your way to the snack bar or restroom.
Besides cover ups it’s also great to accessorize your suit with jewelry and pretty/fun hats. 1970’s inspired floppy straw hats are in right now and will shade your pretty face from the harmful rays, while straw fedoras are a trendier alternative. Hate the hats? Try tying on a beautiful printed silk scarf to cover up your newly highlighted or colored hair – scarves are super chic and look fabulous paired with solid hued suits. And finally, don’t forget to throw on some colorful bracelets, a cool drape-y necklace, some hoop earrings, and of course your supersize shades for that incognito effect.
