Thursday, 26 July 2012

A Guide To: Faking it on the Beach

Bikini 101. We've all been there; two days prior to jetting to faraway shores, recoiling in fear at the thought of baring all at the watersedge... Keep these tips in mind when buying swimwear to flatter your best bits.
 t a n  u p  . . .

Changing rooms truly are the worst. The light is unflattering, and those sock-marks really can ruin the look. Give yourself the best possible chance and apply a self tanner a day in advance if you aren't already sporting the bronzed look, shave those legs and look your best - as you strive to on the beach. Otherwise, order online where you can try on at home, and send the rejects back.

 w h a t ' l l  s u i t  y o u  ? . . .

Look at what already suits you in your wardrobe. If you like the way a V-Neck fits, then chances are you'll like the way a halter neck fits too.

f l a t t e r i n g  a  t u m m y  . . .

Choose a design that skims over your middle. A bikini bottom with Tankini top is an excellent choice, as is a swimsuit with a strong ruched fabric or built in control panels will help disguise or suck-in that mid-section. Alternatively, if you want a bikini, look for a bikini bottom with a high waistband.

 f l a t t e r i n g  f u l l  hi p s  &  t h i g h s . . .

A suit with eye-catching detail above the waist will help focus attention on the upper part of your body. Look for a deep neckline, hardware or a design or colour detail. From the waist down, look for an arched leg that hits the body an inch down from the hip bone. Avoid: boy shorts, one pieces with side cuts and fussy detailed bottoms.

 f l a t t e r i n g  a  s t r a i g h t  f i g u r e . . .

The secret when flattering a straight figure is to give it shape, which is easy to do wearing a suit which has details - ruffles, padding, ruching and a bold print can make a straight body look more curvaceous. Bottoms with embellishment bring attention to the hips and create a waistline. Avoid: vertical stripes, harsh square necklines or anything completely solid or free of texture.
a  s u i t  f o r  s e r i o u s  s w i m m i n g  . . .

If you swim often, look for a suit made from Xtra Life Lycra fibre, a stretch fabric that resists chlorine. A lot of the Speedo suits are made for this. Your ultimately looking for an aerodynamic suit so if its low in front, fits a little loose or has padding - its going to catch water and slow you down. Look for thin racer-back or cross-back straps that wont slide off your shoulders while you're perfecting your back stroke...
 b e  l i k e  a  s w i m w e a r  m o d e l . . .

Check out www.everythingbutwater.com for excellent swimwear brands. You can even shop online at this website for the swimwear form the pages of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
 f l a t t e r i n g  a  l a r g e  b u s t . . .

Structure, structure, structure! Underwire is key, with wide and adjustable straps, bonding, seamed cups and sturdy lining which will all help lift the chest. With a swimsuit, also turn sideways in the changing room when buying and check that the armholes are offering full coverage. If you choose a halter top, make sure there's a band under the breasts to stop them slipping. Feel the fabric, it has to feel tight - soft material wont offer support.
 f l a t t e r i n g  a  s k i n n y  c h e s t  . . .
To keep a small chest from looking flat, your top should be padded or twisted, or have ruffles along the top edge.
 t h e  r a c h e l l e  s w i m w e a r  e d i t . . .
My favourite brands include; Agent ProvocateurAsosFreya, Figleaves, Gap,  H&M, Heidi Klein, J Crew, Malia Mills, Swim Systems, Victoria Secret and Zimmerman. rachel xo 

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