2012 Beach Looks

When it comes to showing off the latest swimwear trends in their best light, even

some of the most beautiful women in the world have a few too many wobbly

bits to really do them justice. Step aside then, as tanned beauties Kate Upton and

Irina Shayk model the Sports Illustrated magazine’s swimwear issue…

Of course, Ms Shayk posing in a revealingly cut-away animal-print swimsuit

accompanied by a real live leopard might make a good fashion shot, but the

burning question is: just what are us real girls going to slip on to hit the beach

this summer?

3 top swimwear trends for 2012

•Retro – the swimdress, pretty polka dots, a 1950’s cut around the top of the leg

and a classy take on a slender sailor collar all make appearances.

•Prints – animal prints will be prowling across the sand, as will bold geometric

patterns and even florals, echoing a popular look in daywear for this spring.

•One shoulder – you’ve seen it on dresses and now it’s in your swim bag. With

the correct swish across the bust as it swoops to one side, the ‘one shoulder’ can

do you more favours than a halterneck.

Flattering bikini alternatives

In recent years the bikini has made a triumphant return but, while less fabric

would certainly suit our cash-strapped times, when we’re on holiday it’s more

fun to relax without worrying what’s covered and what’s not. Happily there

are many styles that look fantastic without us resorting to the head to foot

black ‘burkini’ outfit sported by Nigella Lawson on Bondi Beach!

•Swimdress – seize that trend. With a fabulous tailored style that falls discreetly

over hips and the very tops of your legs, it’s a playful way to look good in the

waves.

•Playsuit – whether it’s a ruched tankini style top and loose shorts or an all in

one that looks like a summery babydoll, this can really work if it’s your tummy

you want to tuck away.

•Shapewear – tummy control and even underwiring are popular current features

in great looking swimsuits on the high street.

•Glitz – making a confident splash with sequins or a bejeweled finish on plain

black swimwear allows you to opt for a flattering colour without looking too

downbeat.

•Versatile options – add a colourful, thigh-length crinkled-cotton kaftan or a

multiway all-in-one that you can throw on as a strapless beach dress (or rolled

down as a skirt) over your swimsuit when you’re not in the water.

For some awesome summer suits and the perfect accessories to go with it, check out this fancy shop! 

xx