Swimsuit Shopping - From Ugh to Ahhh
Article published in Longmeadow Neighbors
(May 2024)
EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
Amy Dickinson
Gazebo Intimates
413 224 1372
the-gazebo.com
Summer is just around the corner! Does the thought of shopping for a swimsuit make you cringe? Summer can bring anxiety and insecurity about our bodies, especially when it comes to our most “intimate” outerwear- the swimsuit. Feeling comfortable and confident in a bathing suit is possible... and key to having a great summer or vacation. Take the guesswork and dread out of shopping with our tips and find a suit that feels right at home on your body.
Mix & Match Tops & Bottoms
Bodies come in a beautiful and diverse array of shapes and sizes. If "small, medium, large" isn't cutting it for you, try pieces with traditional women's sizes (10, 12, 14, etc.) as they can offer a more precise fit. Don’t get hung up on the number on the tag- many swimsuits run small. Focus on how it fits and feels.
Look for tankini or bikini tops with bottoms that are sold separately. Separates can achieve a much better result along with a wider variety of styles to flatter your bust and butt (Rear end? Fanny? Derrière’?).
Cup Problems?
Recently a few excellent bra manufacturers have answered the call for supportive cup-sized swimwear. These suits are a revelation for fuller bustlines! It's like having your favorite bra built right into the suit. A real cup structure eliminates worry over coverage and enhances lift and security. Options include
underwire and wire-free, lined and unlined, one-piece, tankini, bikini, and swim dress.
Quality Fabrics
Bagging and sagging - be gone! Choose materials that feel good on the body and are designed to retain their elasticity and shape. Lycra Xtra Life (trademark symbol) is a great choice as it resists damage from chlorine, lotions, UV rays, and heat. For a long lasting fit and color retention, don't forget to wash your
swimsuit after every use. Hand washing in mild detergent is best. If it must go in the machine, use a mesh lingerie bag, cool water, and hang to dry.
Style
Our favorite style trend that can be worn by every body type is the high waisted bikini bottom. Worn to or
above the naval, they’re terrific for those who want to wear a bikini but show a little less torso. Most high
waists can be folded down for a traditional two-piece look. High waist bottoms are also fabulous under
tankini tops creating smoother lines over the hips and belly. Tankinis offer the convenience of a two piece
with the coverage of a one-piece. Many flattering shapes from blouson to A-line to ruched and fitted are
available. And these days your top and bottom don’t have to match! Contrasting colors and even mixed
prints are a fresh and modern trend.
If you’re apprehensive about picking out the right size and style swimsuit, schedule a fitting with a
specialist at Gazebo Too. Putting yourself in the care of an expert is the best way to ensure that you’ll
feel and look your best on the beach this summer and beyond.
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