Just Add Water: How to
Make a Splash While the Heat is On
Thinking about buying a swimsuit? Forget the same
old body-type bikini tests; this guide is all about attitude! Find
the suit that fits your lifestyle and personal spirit. Are you a
shy, fierce, glittery or a tomboy kind of gal? We’ve got
|
everything from one-pieces and
chunni-wrapped modest suits to the teeniest Brazilian bikinis.
You’re sure to find one—not only to show off those gorgeous
curves, but also to express your every mood!
Fierce
Are you drawn to tiny, colorful or daring cuts? Try a Brazilian
style bottom from your local import store with your favorite top.
The Brazilian bottom covers about two inches less on each rear side
than European or American bikini bottoms. While smaller, this cut
is often more flattering and definitely gives you a better tan.
Even a one-piece suit can have a daring new edge. The styles
|

The Little Black Dress of Swimwear!
|
|
with cut-out-side like
those from Guess offer a sassy (and affordable) stay-put suit. These
look great with maximum jewelry and skyscraper heels. Hardware,
lacing with grommets, oversaturated colors and Chanel-inspired chains
all add to the eye-catching appeal of this look. |
Tomboy
They don’t call ‘em boy shorts for nothing! These bottoms
can go with a variety of tops: triangle, tankini, even a surf shirt
in spandex fatigue prints, like those from Billabong. The key is
maintaining a comfortable, athletic vibe. Keep the look feminine
by choosing shocking colors and a body-hugging cut. And forget flip-flops—fun
gladiator sandals or cutting edge sneaker slip-ons complete the
look. Remember, referencing your boyfriend’s look is sexy;
dressing like his twin is a no-no for a fab girl like you!
|
| Swimwear Shopping Glossary
Tankini - Top that looks like an everyday
wear tank-top, made from nylon/ spandex.
Triangle Top - Two triangles over the bust,
held together with a halter-style neck tie and a tie around
the back.
Boyshorts - Low-rise bottoms that look like
tiny, snug fitting shorts.
Bandeau - A bra size tube top, often with halter ties around
the neck.
Classic Bra Top - Comes in a variety of styles: demi, full
and balconet cups, sometimes with figure shaping.
Cover-up - Anything from a wrap skirt to
kurti (woman’s tunic) to hoodie sweater worn
over the swimwear.
|
|
Glitter Gal
Is your phone covered in Swarovski crystals? Does your dog have
a sequin poncho with matching booties? You’re a gal who competes
with the sun for brilliance. Kick up your look a notch further with
bright yellow and citrus orange, sequin-covered suits or even a
plain suit with your name or initials in tiny rhinestones. If you
have an old chiffon sequin sari that’s past its prime, consider
cutting off the end piece, or a yard and a half of the newest looking
section, and using it as a sarong for your bikini. A tailor can
finish the cut side and remove the fall for less than what a new
cover-up costs at the mall. It’s an economical way to have
a one-of-a-kind look at the beach! Add iridescent accessories or
roll-on glitter gel for an all-over sparkle.
|

Contrasting crystals add interest and sparkle to a simple red bikini.
|
|
Shy
We all loved Charlotte’s sweet style on Sex and the City.
Use her girly chic as an inspiration. Pastel pink chiffon wraps,
chunnis or miniskirts with tons of ruffles are the perfect
icing on this cake. Juicy Couture has some of the cutest polka dot
suits we’ve seen! Even a traditional one-piece suit doesn’t
have to be boring. The key to dressing it up is in the details.
Rouching, crisscross shaping and prints are an excellent way to
add interest and slim your midsection. Victoria’s
Secret has an amazing collection that will make you love a one-piece
suit again. Keep this look flowing and feminine with minimal jewelry
and natural makeup.
|
Sasha Tong is a New York and Hawaii-based image consultant and freelance writer. She specializes in fashion, wine connoisseurship and modern etiquette.
Back to Top
|
|