FINDING THE PERFECT SWIMSUIT

By: Danna Pomeroy

Owner, Fiji Time Swimsuits & More Swimsuit Shopping! How does that sound to you? To most women it provokes a very strong emotion usually a strong feeling of nausea. And, maybe a few tears. Now add to that emotion being a new mom. Yikes! Can it get any worse? Even more predictable are the “one piece blues” new mom’s experience. Did you break down and buy a full coverage one- piece now that you’re a new mom? Isn’t that what all women do? Isn’t that what you mother did? There’s nothing wrong with a one piece but it might not be as flattering as you think. But we’ll get back to that. So many questions and doubts enter your mind when it comes to swimwear shopping.

Trying on swimwear in such an uncomfortable atmosphere is bad enough. Just the thought of going to a store where complete strangers are shopping is nerve racking. Then you have to try the suit on! Cramped rooms with bad lighting and giant unflattering mirrors make it very difficult to really see the suit. The worst part is leaving the dressing room to get an opinion from the sales associate or your shopping companion. All that stress can make you think “Game over. Time to leave. I’ll buy my swimsuit online or just wear the same one I’ve had since 1990.” But, alas there is hope! It is possible to find the perfect swimsuit. In order to make this dreaded shopping experience better, here are some tips for you when it comes to purchasing a new swimsuit for your upcoming vacation, holiday or just because you think you deserve it.

Tips for our swimsuit search:

Know your body type: Find out what swimsuits are right for your body type. For instance a bandeau top is typically more flattering on women with smaller busts. Some larger women need an under wire or extra support. One pieces are great for plus size women, but just because you are not a size 2 does not mean you must shun a two-piece. If you have larger legs and a smaller torso or if you have very broad shoulders a one piece might actually emphasize your flaws. Don’t automatically assume a bathing suit is more flattering than a bikini.

Really look at the suit: Colors and patterns are very important and can make your body look better or worse. As an example, to de-emphasize your rear, a solid color usually draws less attention to the area. Conversely, play up your bust with bold patterns and colors.

Fit is everything: The fit of the swimsuit is the most important item.  Here are three golden rules of fit.

1. Find a suit that does not pinch (you should not get bulging above and below the sides). Go up a size if you feel pinched.

2. The swimsuit bottom should not be baggy in the front or the back.

3. With the top, always do the bottom strap first as tight as possible (don’t lose circulation!) and then tie the top around your neck. This has a dramatic effect on how the top looks.

Chin up: Do not go swimsuit shopping in a bad mood! You will think NOTHING looks good because you are already in a negative state of mind. Remember, we are our own worst critic. You probably look better than you think.

Consider a private fitting: We took all these tips into consideration when I started Fiji Time Swimsuits & More. We bring the boutique to you so you can avoid department store horrors. Through our exciting swimwear parties that involve 6 – 10 of your friends or with a private fitting for just you, we specialize in finding that perfect swimsuit for you. Check us out online at Fiji Time Swim or give Danna Pomeroy a call to find out more at (602) 628-7972.