If there’s one garment that many a woman would like to put off shopping for, it’s an item of swimwear. I confess to being in that group and would happily wait for fashion to cycle back around to the return of the Victorian bathing suit. Bad news for me is that’s not going to happen. Good news for all of us is there are so many different options, there really is something for everyone and every body type.
Big swimwear trends this year are belted swimsuits, bandeau styles, one-shoulder suits, ruffles, and retro-inspired, high-waisted two-pieces. Colors abound, either in patterns or solid bold brights; metallics such as gold, pewter and bronze are edgy alternatives to staples such as black and navy.
Some beachwear basics before you bare:
- Shaped bandeau bikinis visually broaden the chest and can help balance out wider hips.
- Ruffled tops are a great way to enhance a small bust.
- Bigger busts need support in the form of built-in underwires; structured retro styles with broad straps are a good on-trend choice.
- A one-shouldered style creates a diagonal line—seriously slimming in a one-piece.
- Dark side panels with a bright-colored or boldly printed center panel give instant curves to a straight torso.
The most important factor in making a style splash is to select swimwear that works for your silhouette and makes you look and feel great.
Pink ruffled bikini by Betsey Johnson; floral ruffled top by Kenneth Cole Reaction; one shoulder swimsuit by Trina Turk; retro swimsuit dress by Juicy Couture; center panel print swimsuit by La Blanca. Swimwear stores: Aqua Beachwear, Venetian Village; Beach House of Naples; Swim n’ Sport, Mercato.
