Tips for Shopping for Bikinis: Fitting
Q: How do I find a swimsuit that will fit and flatter my unique figure?
A: The most overriding passion and desire for most women when shopping for a swimsuit is locating that one perfect swimsuit that will flatter every curve and cover every imperfection. However, no matter what their particular shape is, most women find swimsuit shopping difficult. This brief guide to swimsuits, categorized by body shape, will help you find the best type and style of swimsuit to fit and flatter your body.
Big Thighs: Bulging skin from the thighs and belly in a skimpy bikini can be an embarrassing fashion disaster. While a dark-colored one-piece swimsuit will generally slim the body and solve the problem of bulging thighs, most women wish to receive the same results in a slightly more fashionable swimsuit. To slim the thighs and elongate the legs, try pairing a light, attention-grabbing tankini top with dark-colored bikini bottoms. Be sure to choose a pair of bottoms with high-cut legs. High-cut legs are the best secrets to slimming the thighs and hips. Also, be sure the tankini tops and bottoms meet. A long tankini top will reduce any unsightly belly bulges, as well.
Pear Shapes: Some women are naturally born with pear shapes, and other women develop these shapes after pregnancy. Regardless of the reason behind the pear shape, women with pear shapes often have a difficult time shopping for flattering swimsuits. However, there are certainly swimsuits out there that will not only conceal the undesirable characteristics of a pear shape but play up the good characteristics, as well. Try a one-piece swimsuit or tankini that pairs a lighter, eye-grabbing top with darker, more subdued bottoms. A low-cut or plunging neckline will draw even more attention to the bust. Also, remember to look for swimsuits with high-cut legs in order to slim the hips and thighs.
Short Torso/Long Torso: Torso length is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting the right swimsuit fit. A swimsuit that is too short will result in constant readjustment, while a swimsuit that is too long will result in a saggy, unattractive fit. Whether you have a short torso or a long torso, the most important factor you can take into consideration when buying a swimsuit is the fit of the bottoms and the cut of the leg. If you have a short torso, try a bikini with low-rise bottoms that sit just on the hip. The low fit of the bottoms will lengthen the appearance of the torso. If you have a long torso, be sure to find bottoms that sit a little higher on the hips. Also, if you are slim in the belly, you may try a short tankini top that ends just at the waist. This type of top will break up the torso and lend it a shorter appearance.
Big Bust: When looking for a swimsuit to flatter a large bust, be familiar with the amount of bra support you need. Many women with large breasts make the mistake of choosing a swimsuit with no support. Swimsuit manufacturers now produce a variety of swimsuits with hidden underwires in both bikini and maillot styles. A hidden underwire helps to lift and support the bust. Try a swimsuit with a bandeau-style top or wide-set straps to minimize the bust, but be sure to choose a pretty, young color to avoid looking too matronly.
Small Bust: To accentuate and flatter a small bust, try a traditional triangle-cut bikini top. The triangle cups tend to lift and shape small breasts. Also, look for a bikini top or maillot with a hidden underwire. This feature will allow for bra-style lift and support. Detailed seams around the breasts will draw attention to the bust and give it a fuller appearance, as well.
Overall Pudginess: If you are feeling just a little uncomfortable and self-conscious in your swimsuit, but your body does not seem to fit any of the listed categories, you may want to try a minimizer-type swimsuit. Minimizer swimsuits contain a relatively high percentage of Lycra or spandex in the fabric (anywhere from 15%-20%) and tend toward an overall slimming effect on your body. Just remember that, while minimizer swimsuits are fantastic for smoothing out bulges underneath the suit, they can create bulges outside of the suit if the straps or openings are too tight. Look for a swimsuit with adjustable back and neck straps and tie-side bottoms to avoid this problem.
Skirted Bikinis
March 20, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini, bikini tops, bikini trends, bikinis 2009, bikinis online, swimwear
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Want to wear a bikini but still feel a bit uncomfortable with showing off as much skin as a typical bikini would? A skirted bikini is made just for those women who seek a little extra cover. You can still look trendy and sexy while feeling comfortable and confident. The 2009 bikini swimwear trends have added a new dimension to make you feminine and classy.
Skirted bikinis will also add versatility to your wardrobe. Wear them scrunched up for swimming or beach activities and then full length for that after beach party. If you have a little extra around the tummy or rear, the fabric will tuck you in nicely and give you some extra support to smooth away those imperfections. A full coverage bikini doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style.
You can find skirted bikinis and many other styles at this bikinis website.
Measuring your Body
March 19, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini tops, bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, bikinis fit, bikinis online, swimwear
One of the most important things to ensuring your bikini fits you properly is the accuracy of your body measurement. Also, it is a good idea to measure yearly as our body undergoes changes throughout the year. There are 3 areas on your body that you need to measure. Those are the bust, waist and hips. It is best to use a flexible measuring tape. However, you can also measure a piece of string with a standard ruler and then proceed in the same fashion.
When measuring the bust, make sure that you take your reading from the largest part of your breast. This is usually located over the nipple line. To measure your waist, take the smallest reading of your torso which is most often just above the navel. The hip measurement is the reading provided at the fullest or widest part of your hips. Generally, about 8 inches below your natural waistline. It is also a good idea to write down your measurements in centimetres and inches as some sizing charts may not provide both figures.
The accuracy of your body measurements will ensure that you are completely satisfied with any bikini purchase. Skimping on this step will only bring you frustration as your bikini will not fit.
Check out this bikinis website to find all the hottest trends for 2009.
Adding to your Bikini Collection
March 18, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini tops, bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, swimwear
The next series of posts is going to discuss the different bikini tops and list some of the advantages and disadvantages of each. The most popular bikini top is the triangle. The fabric covering the breasts can vary in size. Micros only cover the nipples whereas the standard and long triangle tops cover most or the entire breast.
Triangle bikini tops are also available in adjustable and non adjustable styles. The advantage to the adjustable triangle bikini top is that it allows you to move the fabric over the breasts to ensure proper placement. The non adjustable triangle bikini tops may not accommodate women whose breasts are situated closer together. As a result, you may end up feeling like you are falling out of the bikini top. Both are tied around the neck and back which allows for comfortable placement around the bodice.
The biggest disadvantage to the triangle bikini tops is that they offer absolutely no support. Women who are larger on top may not find that them to be the most comfortable choice as they may contribute to shoulder and lower back pain due to lack of support.
At Bikini Attitude, we feel it is important to provide you with information that may assist you in adding to your bikini collection. With so many different styles to choose from, the decision process can be a little overwhelming. Through these posts, we hope to alleviate this stress by answering the questions you may have. Adding to your bikini collection can be an informed procedure.
You can find new bikini tops like these at this bikinis website.
Butterfly Bikini Tops
March 18, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, swimwear
Selecting a bikini top to add to your bikini collection is dependant upon your needs. This in turn is based upon your body type which will determine the top that will provide you with the most comfort and functionality.
Butterfly bikini tops are not as common as the triangle tops which was discussed in the previous post. However, they also have spaghetti neck and back ties which secure the top to your body. They have a removable center loop which allows you to change the shape of the fabric to accommodate fit.
One of the biggest benefits to the butterfly bikini top is the adjustable sides. As a result, the fabric that covers the breasts can be made smaller or larger up to two cup sizes. Butterfly bikini tops work best on women who are medium to larger build.
The main disadvantage to the butterfly bikini top is that they do not offer much in the way of support. Depending how large you are on top, the butterfly bikini top may not represent the most comfortable choice. As with the triangle top, the butterfly may contribute to extra strain on the shoulders and lower back if your breasts are fairly heavy.
You can find butterfly bikini tops and other styles on line at this bikinis website.
Bikini Tops – The perfect Fit
March 17, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini tops, bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, swimwear
Source: BikiniAttitude.com
Author: Paula
Over the last couple of posts, different types of bikini tops have been discussed with some of the benefits and drawbacks of each. Finding a bikini top that will serve both as comfortable and functional will make the addition to your bikini collection more beneficial.
Underwire bikini tops are a relatively good choice for those women who are heavier on top. Their primary benefit is the full support that is obtained through the underwire. They fit very similar to a bra. As a result, it is important to have an accurate bust measurement and know your cup size when making your selection. Many have a wide shoulder strap which also helps to provide some extra support.
The biggest disadvantage to an underwire bikini top is that they are generally secured around the back with a hook closure. Most often, there are three levels for adjustment giving approximately 2 inches of leeway. As a result, the flexibility that is present with the neck and back ties is not present.
For women who are not as large on top, the underwire bikini top may prove to be an advantage as many of them have a pad pockets. This feature will help to give the illusion of being fuller providing a balance for those who require it.
You can find bikini tops like these on line at this bikinis website.
Brazilian Bikini Bottoms
March 16, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, swimwear
As most of you know, there are many different kinds of bikini bottoms to choose from. Some of them include: full coverage, full brief, booty shorts, boy cut shorts, micro, thong, g-string and Brazilian. Each design has different benefits and not all will compliment all figures equally. As a result, it is important to fully understand your body type when selecting the appropriate bikini bottom.
Brazilian bikini bottoms work very well for most figures. They are designed to slim the tummy with the high cut legs and scooped front. The back of the Brazilian bikini bottoms is what determines whether or not they are a good fit for your body type. Women who are larger on the bottom will gain the most benefit from the Brazilian design because they make your rear end look smaller. Most women are in the mindset that if you are large on the bottom, you need more fabric to cover. However, the opposite is actually true. The more fabric you wear, the larger you appear.
For women who are petite, the Brazilian bikini bottoms will actually make your backside look bigger. The same principle stated above also applies. More fabric equals a larger appearance. This is not necessarily a bad thing. However, one should consider the image they are wishing to portray when making their selection.
Finding the perfect bikini bottom for your body type comes with understanding how the design can compliment your figure. By following the different principles outlined in many of these posts, making your selection should prove to be a more knowledgeable one.
You can find Brazilian bikini bottoms like these on line at this bikinis website.
Swimwear Accessories.. don’t leave your bikinis alone!
March 16, 2009
Filed under Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, swimwear
A collection of cute, fun accessories can highlight and jazz up even the most banal of bikinis (although the term “banal bikini” seems somewhat oxymoronic). Once you have your new bikini or tankini, try changing your style a bit with some fun and necessary swimwear accessories. Below is a guide to shopping for and wearing two of the most common swimsuit accessories: the sarong and sunglasses.
sarong
Sarong: The sarong is a cover-up favorite among women all over the world. Sarong style looks great on women of all shapes and allows a little more coverage for shy bikini wearers. Its graceful beauty can lend any bikini or swimsuit an inherently feminine style (while serving the added benefit of covering figure flaws). Sarongs are very effective cover-ups for heavy hips, thighs, and legs. A sarong is also one of the most flexible swimsuit accessories in its ability to transfer from beach cover-up to sexy mini-skirt or halter dress.
The trick to wearing a sarong successfully is to get the right wrap. To tie a sarong, hold it horizontally around your hips. Gather approximately three inches of material in each hand and tie a simple square knot at your belly button. To adjust the placement of the sarong on your legs, fold the sarong to the desired length horizontally before tying it.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses serve the dual purpose of protecting the eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) sunrays and of providing a guaranteed Audrey Hepburn/Jackie Onassis sexuality and style. There are quite a few items to consider when buying flattering sunglasses to accompany your bikini. It is important to think about the shape of your face, the color of the lenses, and the amount of UV protection you need. Of course, price is another important consideration. Here are some general tips to keep in mind when shopping for the perfect pair of sunglasses. Update your sunglasses about every two years. This will refresh your wardrobe and accommodate any changes in your face from weight loss/gain.
When trying on sunglasses, check yourself out in a full-length mirror. It is important to match your sunglasses to the proportions of your body and not just your face.
If you have strong, high cheekbones, do not cover them with your sunglasses. You should always let this wonderfully attractive feature stand out.
When choosing frames for your sunglasses, keep in mind that frames that turn downward can age your appearance, while frames that turn upward will tend to lift your face.
If you are unsure about which shape of frames to buy, try oval frames; these frames flatter almost every face shape.
For the most part, the best frames for your sunglasses will be the opposite of the shape of your face. For example, if you have a long, oblong face shape, you will want to try oval or other horizontal frames to shorten the face and soften its angles.
Green-gray is the best and most popular color for sunglass lenses. Green-gray lenses filter light evenly and distort color very little, making them the best bet for bright, sunny days on the beach or at the pool.
Purple, pink, or blue lenses are great for making a fashion statement, but they tend to interfere with color perception. Save them for occasions when you do not need great vision.
Look for sunglasses that block at least 95% of UVB rays and 60% of UVA rays. Check the label on your sunglasses or ask your optometrist to find out how much protection the lenses offer.
Some Quotes about Bikinis
March 16, 2009
Filed under Bikinis and Swimwear Styles, Bikinis in The News
Tags: bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, swimwear
“This bikini made me a success.”
- Ursula Andress
“Women shop for a bikini with more care than they do a husband. The rules are the same. Look for something you’ll feel comfortable wearing. Allow for room to grow.”
- Erma Bombeck
“A bikini is a thoughtless act.”
- Esther Williams
“A bikini is not a bikini unless it can be pulled through a wedding ring.”
- Louis Reard
“Since the beginning, the bikini has represented freedom, fun, and a sense of liberation.”
- Malia Mills
“I’m not in my element standing around in a bikini in front of strangers. I never stand up in a bikini, even at the swimming pool. I feel like a normal person when it comes to things like that. I’m like any other girl who doesn’t want to show her bottom.”
- Elizabeth Hurley
“Nature has no mercy at all. Nature says, ‘I’m going to snow. If you have on a bikini and no snowshoes, that’s tough. I am going to snow anyway.’”
- Maya Angelou
“Statistics are like a bikini. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital.”
- Aaron Levenstein
“At Sports Illustrated we would try on hundreds of bikinis. It’s important to find one that complements your body and not try to fit into something that doesn’t work.”
- Kathy Ireland
Sexy Swimwear for 2009
March 15, 2009
Filed under Bikini Shopping Online, Bikinis and Swimwear Styles
Tags: bikini trends, bikinis, bikinis 2009, One-Piece bikinis, swimwear
Source: fashiontribes.com
by Carly J. Cais, Fashion Designer & ChicSteals blog
As a designer – my line is RIVETED Clothing & Accessories – I’ve developed an eye for style over the years…and right along with it, a nose for a bargain. Half the fun of fashion is looking fabulous without needing to declare bankruptcy. Each week, I showcase hot designer-style steals (each for $100 or, in most cases, for much, much less)…along with one splurge-worthy item.
This summer, be the envy of the crowd in a cute suit. There are tons of pre-Summer sales to choose from, making this the time to snag some swimwear for a song. Here are five ways to stay cool by the pool or brave the waves in style this season:
- OMBRE EVERYWHERE Reminiscent of 60’s tie-dye, but updated for 2008, this alluring gradiant color-wash – seen on all the A-list spring runways – has found its way to swimwear. Fade from seaweed-green to sandy-gold in a hot-hot-hot little side-tie triangle…and for strutting down the beach at your most fabulous, pair with white accessories – especially bangles, sunglasses, and a caftan. Victoria’s Secret Very Sexy Ombre Sliding Triangle Top & String bottom – $38 (each).
- MOLTO MONOKINI - aka side cut-out suits – provide the stay-put-ness and tummy coverage of a one-piece, with a healthy dose of skin-baring sex appeal. Say ahoy in the nautical chic of a striped-top and anchor print bottom, which is also available in an extended-torso version for $40 from Delias…which means you can set sail looking fab, but with your swim budget still intact.
- SEXY HARDWARE Gold rings, silver brooches, jeweled dangles…metallic accents add a fabulously shiny touch to this year’s suits. Even modest swimwear gets glam with something hard thrown into the mix, however, for hardcore sex appeal, this down-to-there monokini with an enticing trail of O-rings provides just enough coverage to leave him breathless. For sunset cocktails, simply tie on a low-slung pareo and head for the cabana. 3-ring monokini – on sale for $35 (was $70) at Carabella.com.
- BOLD GRAPHICS Prints are a major trend this season, especially over-sized, brightly colored and eyecatching. From floral to psychedlic, a fab one-stop shopping option is Venus Swimwear, which carries a staggering array of styles, colors, and sizes. The Mocha Java print two-piece is simultaneously sophisticated and mod…just add a breezy coverup and some glistening gold-flecked body oil. For just over $55 from Venus.com, the price is definitely right.
- RETRO GIRLIE GIRL Make a splash in a high-waisted pin-up number from MyBabyJo.com, one of the best online sources for retro chic. The halter-neck supports and accentuates your curves, and the boy-cut bottom conceals the tummy-control panel within…so all bystanders will see is you looking slim and trim. For added bonus points: coat your nails in lipstick-red polish. Two-piece cherry-print suit – $70 at MyBabyJo.com.
- SPLURGE OF THE WEEK: AN ICONIC DESIGNER For the perfect suit, sometimes it’s worth investing in a tried-and-true designer label. DVF does not disappoint with an itsy-bitsy bikini in an on-trend (but not overly trendy) safari’ish print. Diane Von Furstenberg Stone String Bikini – $175 at IntermixOnline.com.
If there are any high-priced pieces you’d like me to find similar, less costly versions of, please email me at carlyjcais AT Fashiontribes DOT com.
‘Til next week, fellow bargain-hunters!
- Carly J. Cais
You can find these and other new bikinis at this bikinis website.
