Men’s styles for beach, pool
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: Where I live, the weather is warming up enough for me to start thinking about swim season. I’m a 30-something man trying to up my “fashion” and thought I could start with something simple: swimwear. Can you offer any guidance for what is stylish for men’s beach and pool wear this season?
— Jason T.
Dear Jason: You only have to look at photos of pro basketball players over the years to see what a difference a few inches of fabric can make. Today, men’s swimwear style is for shorter and more fitted styles instead of the looser knee-length of the recent past. Think an inseam of 5 to 7 inches (measured from the crotch using the inside seam to where that seam ends). That said, not all body types are suited for the current trimmed down beachwear fashion styles. Look in the mirror — front and back views — before you buy. For sure, there are men who can even rock a tiny Speedo. And, hey, Jason, if you’ve got a rock-hard body and great abs, you can look good in anything.
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I’ve never been comfortable lounging by the pool in a swimsuit. I’ve got issues with my body that I’d prefer to keep under wraps. Can you offer some guidelines for swim cover-ups that look stylish and won’t make me look wrapped up like a mummy?
— Elizabeth O.
Dear Elizabeth: Any dress or top that is easy to wash and can stand up to sun, sand and a little moisture will work for you. Even better if the fabric has a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 30 or above. The Skin Cancer Foundation (skincancer.org) rates UPF clothing 30-49 as “very good protection” and 50+ as “excellent.” For instance, UPF 50 fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s rays letting only 1/50th to penetrate.
As for style, if you are intent on genuinely covering up, pick clothing that slips easily over your swimwear and covers to mid-thigh, knee or even ankle. These also can have sleeves that are lightweight but offer arm coverage. Many items sold as coverups are mesh, see-through or so lightweight that they don’t do the job. You didn’t ask, but for men — especially men with ample guts — there’s nothing wrong with covering up with a non-clinging shirt, such as a loose-fitting button up instead of the customary T-shirt.
Angelic Readers
Readers had several suggestions for Lily O., who was having trouble finding a swimsuit that gave her the modesty and coverage she was seeking. Cheryl G. has had good luck with swimwearforall. com, where swim dresses and swim tunics in longer lengths and higher necklines are available. Lesley W.’s suggestion is calypsa. com, where there are many options — tops and bottoms — designed for coverage including swim leggings and long swimming bike shorts.
Now it’s your turn
Send your questions, rants, tips, favorite finds — on style, shopping, makeup, fashion and beauty — to answerangelellen@gmail. com.