Shopping for swimwear can be fraught. Stressful. Depressing. But not this season.
The bathing suit industry has made a splash with many new designers, new trends in fabrications, and a concern for protection from the sun.
The current collection of women’s bathing attire suits a wide range of tastes and body types. The one-piece basic black suit is updated but still affords the same sense of security you seek. The basic bikini seems to be covering more than in past years.
Although “trends,” as dictated by designers and fashion editors, are no longer the only arbiter of fashion, the swimwear industry has a plethora of pretty and provocative selections. Many of them were seen on the runway during Fashion Week El Paseo 2016.
PHOTO BY TIFFANY CLARK
Bathing suit by Jessika Allen available at Diane’s Beachwear in Palm Desert or Rancho Mirage.
THE BIKINI RAISES THE BAR…
Yes, bikinis are still skimpy and the Brazilian thong still decorates (barely) bodies in this hemisphere , but some two-piece suits have returned to the coverage appropriate in the 1950s. Let’s throw boy shorts into that category — they’re a cute way to cover up your swimsuit. Take along a coordinated T-shirt, and you’re set for the day.
PHOTO BY TIFFANY CLARK
Robin Piccone crochet suit and mesh pants available at Diane’s Beachwear.
SEE THROUGH THE TRANSPARENT TREND
Transparency has invaded the red carpet and the runway for the last few seasons. And now it’s barely there on the beach or at the pool.
ORANGE IS THE
NEW BLACK
Orange comes in a variety of shades; find one that matches your skin tone. Don’t forget to add turquoise as an accent.
Right: Red Carter braided strap one-piece swimsuit and multicolored maxi dress available at Diane’s Beachwear.
Far left: Pants and swimsuit available at Diane’s Beachwear.
PHOTOS BY TIFFANY CLARK
PHOTO COURTESY OF KEEPWOBBLIN.COM
THE NEW BOND … AS IN BONDAGE
Could this look have anything to do with Fifty Shades of Gray and the influence of street style? It’s all about laces and banding, but not limited to black.
PHOTO BY TIFFANY CLARK
Caftan and suit by Bleu Rod Beattie and available at Diane’s Beachwear.
TRIBUTE TO COACHELLA
The festival season lasts all summer on the street and on the beach, and uses trimmings such as fringe, flowers, and ruffles to make its bold statement.
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOUSTONIAMAG.COM
No longer is workout wear delegated just for the gym.
AT YOUR LEISURE WITH ATHLEISURE
Fashion has found a friend in the workout wear industry and much of what is seen in the gym can be transferred to everyday street, sand, and pool deck wear.
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There are enough new looks this year to express a different feeling for each day of the week. And remember, your suit might be spectacular, but sunburn is always ugly. Don’t forget the sun block.
Susan Stein is Fashion and Scene Editor of Palm Springs Life.