If you’re going to be hitting the beach this summer, it’s worth investing in some snazzy swimmers. A range of eclectic trends are emerging and there’s bound to be a style that suits you.
Go retro
One of the biggest trends in beachwear involves 1940s and 50s-inspired high-waisted bottoms and structured tops. Retro-style swimsuits enhance curvaceous shapes and conceal problem areas. Ruffles are appearing everywhere – they can create an appearance of bulk, though, so are best avoided if you’re keen to appear thinner. If you want to emphasise a particular area, however, ruffles can equalise your figure. To create a sense of balance, wear ruffles on your top half if you’re triangular shaped and around your hip area if you’re an inverted triangle. Look out for polka dot swimwear, nautical prints and skirted swimsuits – team with wedges and sunglasses and you’ll look a million dollars.
More is more
Minimalist is out, coverage is in. In addition to high-waisted two-pieces, swimming costumes with some shoulder and upper-arm coverage are appearing. Shoulder coverage can be good for triangular-shaped figures as it draws attention upwards. One-piece swimsuits are back, which is good news for those who don’t like feeling as though they’re donning their bra and knickers. Monokinis are set to be big this year, too. They’re chic and feminine and a great way of showing off a hot bod. Choose exposed obliques, criss-cross straps and knots tied around the stomach.
So bandeau
2013 is all about the strapless bandeau. You can shout hooray if you’re smaller in the bust region, as the bandeau will give you a welcome boost in that area. Go for frilled tops, block colours and busy patterns to enhance your assets.
Big and bold
Forget nudes and neutral tones, the focus this season is on bright colours and statement prints. Solid colours are still very much in, but you could also consider some of the more exotic, tropical prints in citrus tones which will enhance a tan. Look out for ocean-inspired designs – sea greens and blues, underwater and coral reef prints. Think wild and tribal: graphic wild animal prints are all the rage. Choose from eye-catching leopard prints, vibrant zebra patterns and bold giraffe prints. If you’re of a smaller build, don’t overwhelm your figure with oversized designs or you’ll look out of proportion – opt for vertical prints instead.
Covering up
Designers have come up with some great ideas for swimsuit cover-ups. There’s a trend towards those that are easy to slip on and off – most are pullover styles. Choose from short, floaty kaftans to casual shrugs, pull-on pants and long, elegant maxi-dresses.
Bag yourself a small one
When it comes to this season’s beach bags, less is more. Avoid looking like a bag lady and pack only what you need into a cute fabric tote or neat, compact duffel bag.
Take some time to browse this year’s styles and choose a style of beachwear that makes you feel both comfortable and confident.
