Anna Harvey Timelss Style
Tips for tackling the most challenging shopping trip of the summer
Each year, the shopping experience that many of us dread comes around: buying swimsuits. I am not sure I am able to make this any easier, but I can try to give you a few pointers.
Ideally, I think we all need three swimming options: one to wear, one on standby and one drying – there is nothing worse than a soggy bottom or struggling into a damp cossie. Your old favourites may still be in good order, but do check before wearing as the elasticity may have perished in parts.
Most town centres have a specialist lingerie and swimwear boutique that would be my first port of call. You’ll find expert help and should be able to face your reflection in the changing room without too much dismay. If not, websites are so sophisticated and helpful these days, offering broad sizing options to make the task easier, and delivery and returns can be done relatively quickly.
If you have a fuller figure, watch out in particular for unflattering bulges under and behind your arms. You may need a larger cup size, and underwiring helps to achieve a good silhouette. Wider straps are a good idea for support, particularly if they can be removed. I would advise against a deep décolletage as it may reveal rather too much – or at least more than you would like. Ruching is very forgiving for the midriff area. If you’re not proud of your hips and upper legs, avoid anything too high cut. Swimdresses are very flattering; they’re not easy to find, but there are options at M&S, Modlily, Rotita and Rosewe.
Smaller busts can find padded tops from Gottex, Norma Kamali, Figleaves, and Rigby & Peller, which have a large number of cup and hip sizes to mix and match. Another area to check is the bottom, so do make use of any two and three-way mirrors: if yours has dropped somewhat, this area can be baggy even when the rest fits. Check that the crotch is not cut too narrowly, as this can be very unflattering indeed.
Alternatives are the tankini. Net-a-porter has some Forties-style full briefs that can be paired with a variety of tops: also try Boden or M&S. Also popular, and very chic, are two-pieces with roll-down briefs and roll-up tops. France’s Pain de Sucre has a selection, and a shop on the King’s Road.
Avoid shiny fabrics, and bright and large prints if you have a generous figure. Stripes can be flattering and this year there are plenty.
I am never seen without a cover-up, so don’t forget to take a sarong at the very least. Remember that it’s the first appearance at the water’s edge that’s the most challenging, after that no one cares and you stop caring, too!