The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Swimwear for Women
Summer is a season to flaunt your style, especially on the beaches and poolsides. A perfect swimwear piece not only provides comfort but also boosts your confidence. With so many options available, selecting the best swimwear can be quite a task. But worry not, I am here to assist you.
Can you believe it's already August? While many would argue that swimwear season is nearing its close, in the world of fashion, it's never truly over. As any savvy shopper knows, this is the golden time for sales, and swimwear is no exception. If you've been holding back from treating yourself to a chic bikini or a sophisticated one-piece, this might just be the perfect time to indulge without breaking the bank. And though it may seem a tad late, remember that great swimwear can be a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
Every summer has its own challenges when it comes to finding that perfect swimsuit, a garment that makes us feel vulnerable and exposed, much like stepping out in our underwear. Despite the endless array of options and ever-evolving trends inspired by reality TV shows like Love Island, the core of swimwear shopping should be about comfort, support, and let's not forget, minimizing those awkward tan lines.
For our petite-chested ladies, the market is abundant with choices. According to Mark Finerty, swimwear design lead at John Lewis, pieces like string bikinis are ideal due to their adjustability. However, if string bikinis aren't up your alley, consider a bandeau top or one with a touch of padding for added comfort and style . The beauty of modern swimwear lies in its adaptability. The days of buying a bikini top and bottom in a set size are fading. Recognizing the unique shape of each individual, many brands now offer mix-and-match options, letting you choose different sizes for tops and bottoms. This shift acknowledges that we might not have the same size throughout our body, giving everyone a chance to find their perfect fit.
For the taller ladies out there, don't be disheartened. There are options tailored specifically for you. While the traditional wired swimsuit might not offer the desired stretch, there are alternatives such as the tankini, which provides the aesthetic of a one-piece but with the flexibility of two separate pieces. Moreover, brands like Boden have stepped up, offering swimsuits in longer lengths alongside their regular sizes. The key, as always, is to look for adjustability, whether in straps, ties, or stretch.
In conclusion, while August might seem like an unusual month to shop for swimwear, it's a hidden gem for those looking for quality pieces at discounted prices. After all, fashion knows no bounds, and neither should your swimwear collection. Whether you're gearing up for an end-of-summer beach trip or planning ahead for next year's vacation, now is the time to invest in a piece that makes you feel confident and stylish.
So let's dive in to the detail: Which swimwear type are you?
CATEGORY 1: Body Type and Swimwear Selection
Understanding your body type is the key to choosing the perfect swimsuit. Let's explore some tips for various body shapes:
Apple Shape
What to Opt For: Swimsuits with a high neckline and wide straps to support the bust. A one-piece swimsuit with ruching or shirring around the waistline can accentuate the silhouette.
For Bikini Lovers: Choose a high-waisted bottom to highlight the waist and add curves.
Colors and Patterns: Experiment with vertical stripes to elongate the torso. Opt for darker colors where you carry more weight and bright colors or patterns for areas you want to emphasize.
Hourglass Shape
What to Opt For: Swimsuits that accentuate the waistline, like a high-waisted bikini or a one-piece with a belted waist.
Necklines: Plunging necklines can enhance your curvaceous figure.
Colors and Patterns: Experiment with solid colors, bold prints, and stripes. However, avoid too much detail or ruffles around the waist, which may divert attention from your natural curves.
Pear Shape
What to Opt For: Belted one-piece swimsuits, plunging necklines, off-the-shoulder or one-shoulder tops, keyhole cutouts, and halter tops with rings or embellishments.
Colors and Patterns: Light colors or patterns around the chest and dark solid shades for the bottom to create a balanced appearance.
Note: It's essential to explore different silhouettes and structures. Trying various cuts from skimpy to full coverage can surprise you, and you might find a new favorite.
CATEGORY 2: Material and Brand Importance
Selecting the right material is crucial not just for comfort but for the longevity of your swimwear. Here are some key points to consider:
Swimsuit Material: Most swimwear is made from a combination of nylon and lycra or elastane, which provides the stretch. For optimum comfort and durability, look for a ratio of about 80-20. This ensures the swimsuit has some give but also returns to its original shape.
Quality Over Quantity: Investing in high-quality material like Italian jersey can offer benefits such as being UV-, pill-, or oil-resistant. A quality swimsuit may have a higher upfront cost but saves in the long run as it tends to last longer and retain its shape .
Brand Value: Established brands usually adhere to certain quality standards and often provide reliable sizing charts. This can be particularly beneficial when shopping online.
Benefits of High-Value Swimwear: They usually come with advanced features like resistance to UV rays, pills, and oils. They also tend to offer better support and have intricate designs that flatter different body types.
Low-Value Swimwear: They might be budget-friendly, but in some cases, they may not last as long due to wear and tear from chlorine, saltwater, and sun exposure.
Sizing and Online Shopping: Without standardized sizing across brands, always consult the size chart when shopping online. If unsure, reach out to the customer service or the designer directly for guidance.
Transparency After a Dip: Some materials might appear sheer after being wet. Always check product images and descriptions or consult customer service to avoid potential embarrassments.
Eco-Friendly Brands: With the rising awareness about sustainability, many brands are offering eco-friendly swimwear made from recycled materials.
Return Policies: Especially when buying online, ensure the brand has a favorable return policy. This allows you to return or exchange if the fit isn't right.
Reading Reviews: Online reviews can provide insights about fit, comfort, and the actual color of the swimsuit. They can guide you to make an informed decision.
The 10 most popular and fashionable swimwear brands should not be missing here:
Eres
Lisa Marie Fernandez
Louisa Ballou
Fisch
Riot Swim
Everlane
Tropic of C
Zimmermann
Anemos
Beach Riot
In conclusion, buying the perfect swimwear is a blend of understanding your body type, the occasion, and ensuring you select quality material that offers both comfort and durability. Remember, the best swimsuit is the one in which you feel confident and beautiful.
Happy swimming!
Yours in stilettos,
XOXO Henrieta