It’s swimsuit season (insert King Kong style scream here). Not our favorite shopping trip for sure, but finding the right suit means the rest of your summer will be just a touch sweeter than that slice of juicy watermelon you’ve been dreaming of since Labor Day last reared it’s ugly head. So, in true INPT fashion, here’s your How to Guide on Buying A Fabulous Swimsuit…

Top Two Things You MUST Know Before Venturing Out:

1. Fabric– Avoid the too-thin cheapies, unless it’s truly just a lie and look pretty kind of bikini that will never see the water, otherwise don’t say we didn’t warn you about the saggy booty factor. Also, if you’re going to do white make sure it is double-lined– few people want to see that business.

2. Dressing Rooms Hate You– You will never look good in a swimsuit in the dressing room– if you do, stop whatever you’re doing and buy it immediately. I highly suggest a quick self-tanning session (or 4) the night before you plan on going shopping, just don’t do it the day of because nobody wants your leftovers.

The Rundown:

Bandeau:
Fact – The Bandeau is the perfect style for the small-chested and flat-abbed. This is the time to embrace it because those who can’t wear this style are just a bit jealous and somebody has to wear this awesome style.
Myth – The Bandeau will give you the illusion of smaller chest and flatter abs. Ummm, no.

Rachel Pally Print Rio Bandeau

Triangle Bikini:
Fact – The Triangle Bikini is made for the perky or cosmetically-enhanced (sizes A through large C need only apply).
Myth – Cosmetically-enhanced is a license to go one size smaller. Don’t, you’ll either end up looking like a wannabe body builder or a cougar with too much to prove. Available at The Juice Boutique. Just drop them a line at customer.service@shopthejuice.com or call (541) 686-1195.

Ella Moss Dip Dye Bikini

Halter:
Fact – The best, most forgiving, flattering bikini style around. When all else fails the halter style will reaffirm your love for the beach.
Myth – A halter top will make your butt look smaller. We wish, but it will flatter your waistline and bustline all in one stretch piece of fabric!

Sliding Halter

One-Piece:
Fact: Making a strong comeback via sexy cutout and plunging neckline versions, the essential one-piece looks Vegas-perfect with wedges and gold Ray Bans.
Myth: The one-piece trend means it’s OK to pull out your Speedo circa high school swim team. No, if it has a screen saver reminiscent design to it, shove it back in the drawer and get shopping!

Plunge Monchromatic

Tankini:
Fact: The tankini is the perfect style when you’re feeling flabby or pale. Go with a monochromatic look because what this suit is really saying is “I want to blend in” and that’s OK, just don’t try to do it in a Hawaiian print tankini.
Myth: A skirted bottom will hide booty cellulite. Again, no. If you want to hide the thighs, find a flattering sheer wrap. A skirt will do nothing but draw attention to the fact that you are trying to hide something under spandex.

Halter Tankini Top

The Bottomline:
Fact: Side-Tie or traditional Bikini bottoms are the most flattering bottom styles. The Boy Short seems like a logical option to camoflauge larger thighs, booty and cellulite, but again stick with a sheer wrap that won’t grab exactly what you’re trying to hide.
Myth: Brazilian women all have perfectly cellulite free butts and thighs. Think again. What they do have is the kind of body love that makes a bikini bottom look fabulous. Take note and suit up with pride.

Last few words before you venture out:
Remember, self-tanner, halter-styles and lightweight wraps are your friends; flourescent lights and boy shorts will always try to bring you down; and the truly beautiful beach bodies know it’s all about how high you hold your head.

Happy Shopping!

Cheers,
Ashley