With summer in full swing I'm sure many of you have been on the hunt for a new swimsuit(s)! My step-mom and I went shopping for swimsuits a couple months ago and she was very hesitant about buying something because she thought she was "too old" to wear one! If you feel the same way then read on...Dawn Del Russo, a high-profile stylist and owner of Bella Dawn Boutique, was kind enough to share some of her tips on looking fabulous in a swimsuit if you're over 40. Here's what she has to say...
- Monokinis (one piece swimsuit with cut outs) are oh so popular now and with the right section cut out it is very becoming. Even if you have a great body, go for a suit that signals sexy but doesn’t scream it!
- Hollywood glamour is a huge trend right now. It’s a sophisticated option for women over 40. You can choose a suit that covers more but oozes sex appeal.
- Color blocked swimwear is also hot this year, and let's you play up or down the areas of your body you love or hate. Wear a darker section to camouflage and a lighter color block on the area you want to highlight.
- Floral, prints, or stripes give the illusion of curves. This hides a large tummy. Also, look for a bathing suit with ruching it is a great way to hide a tummy. For heavier booties choose full-cut bottoms.
left to right: Laura Urbinati & Luca Mancini Swimsuit
, Norma Kamali One-piece suit
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FISICO-Cristina Ferrari One-piece suit
FISICO-Cristina Ferrari One-piece suit
- Exotic ethnic prints are totally the in right now, and with the right cut can make you look ultra fabulous in the summer heat.
- Try skirted suits, and strapless styles that have more coverage.
- To accentuate a smaller bust, buy suits that create cleavage with underwire and padding. Also look for ruffles around the bust line.
- For a big chest, support your bust with a slightly higher neckline or a built-in bra. A little cleave is always sassy! Tankinis are ideal for large chests as well as halter styles with higher necklines.
- Petite ladies, don’t overwhelm a small frame with oversize prints or straps. A plunging neck or halter elongates your upper body. High-cut bottoms make legs appear longer and a padded top gives a little spice in just the right spot.
- For pear shape women mix eye-catching print tops with a solid bottom. Look for jewel tone, figure flattering colors.
- Toned sporty figures look gorgeous in graphics. Halters show off shoulders and minimize bust. Big prints create a curvier silhouette.
- If you are buying a suit to wear in a chlorinated pool, remember that cotton fades quickly and Lycra will not only fade, but stretch out in chlorine. Look for a blended fabric made of polyester. Some suits are made resistant to chlorine which will keep your suit looking fab the entire season in the sun.
- Consider built in support which offers more support than one with a shelf bra. Also, consider the best style for your body type.
- One-piece suits are more flattering to the larger figure than two-piece suits. A one-piece is slimming, and can accentuate the positive.
- A blouson style is also flattering to the larger figure - look for substantial straps.
- Keep in mind the line of the leg as some skirt styles and shorts can be ultra unflattering. These styles draw attention to the thigh while higher cut legs will offer a more slender illusion.
left to right: Jungle Scene Two Piece Halter Tankini Swimsuit by Beach Scene, Golden Stripes Two Piece Plus Size Tankini Swimsuit, Beadwork Two Piece Plus Size Halter Tankini Swimsuit by Liz Claiborne
- Remember always check your back view. The tankini two-piece suits can work miracles for larger ladies in that the bottoms and tops can be purchased as separates.
- Never wear horizontal stripes or one color on top and a different one on the bottom. Look out for many internet shopping sites that are offering bathing suits in larger sizes to suit every shape. Online is a great place to find the perfect suit and try on in the comfort of your own home.
- Finally sarongs and tunics are great, and so stylish, a brilliant way to cover up without the “t-shirt” look.
Find out more about Dawn Del Russo in my interview with her over at The Runway Scoop...
