I've had an obsession with retro bikini's for a few years now. A couple of years ago I spotted a jcrew retro bloomers bikini bottom that I had to have no matter what the cost. I think they ended up being $68 but it was worth it because I will wear them for years to come. This is a shot of me in June 2010.
#1. Mix it Up! Just like with clothes dont be afraid to mix it up. A printed top can go with another printed bottom in the same color family or if its the same fabric. The Jcrew Tulle option shown above comes in several prints and solids that are easy to mix and match. If you aren't so daring to mix prints try the look I've shown above with a printed top and a solid bottom. Its swim, have fun with the look!
#2. Embrace your Body Type! Just because you aren't a 2 doesnt mean you can't wear a bathing suit. If you are bustier, go for something with support at the top without looking like a mom. The Jcrew one shoulder and halter options that have built in support without looking dowdy. If you have a problem tummy look for roucking, although it may look like it just adds to the problem, it really camoflauges a lot. If you are almost there but not quite ready for a bikin go for a bustier style one piece. There are plenty of options out there that will suck and lift until you are ready to show off those abs!
#3. Coverups are more than a towel or a TShirt from the Boardwalk! Coverups dont have to match your swimwear but they should reflect some sort of style other than just something to keep you dry. There are plenty of gorgeous caftans and tunics that you can wear to the beach or throw on some heels with for a summer evening out. Make your wardrobe do double duty. The terry cloth rompers aren't the answer!
Swimwear is worth a splurge, although you can find them on sale around mid summer through the winter, its worth the investment if you find one that makes you feel comfortable and confident whether lounging by the pool or cruising on vacation. So try, try and try more until you find the one, just like a man and a great pair of jeans, the perfect fit is hard to find but its worth the hunt in the end!
Do you have any swimwear favorites?
I love the Topshop Option. So cute!
ReplyDeleteHoly moly, you were MADE to wear retro bottoms! You look fierce in the J Crew bloomers, love them on you.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips for swimwear, too--I think too often, girls get wrapped up in the whole "must wear a bikini, must get bikini-ready, must wear a bikini" mantra that is shoved at us in magazines, but oftentimes a regular bikini simply isn't flattering. I know they aren't flattering on me! I love a good retro suit--and that one-shouldered tank at J Crew has been calling my name so hard...