Get Ready to Sizzle this Summer!

With summer fast approaching, it is now time to give that wardrobe a sort out and most importantly, invest in some new swimwear! This year’s collection kicked off nicely with the traditional release of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit back in mid February, showing that whilst recession may be the key word right now, women are still prepared to spend a lot on a decent costume. Red Carter’s American-Indian inspired string bikini, modeled by the luscious Heidi Klum, flew off the shelves following the magazine’s release and hints at one of 2008’s biggest swimsuit trends.
Another natural beauty Liz Hurley caused a storm recently with her new modeling debut for Mango, showing off their summer bikini and swimsuit collection.
Despite some air-brushing, the British 40-something reveals some stunning new looks to watch out for on the beaches this summer.
Triangle bikinis were everywhere at the catwalk shows, with the itsy-bitsy look very much back in fashion (get thee to a gym girls!).
Recalling the look of the seventies, designers are veering away from the classic rounded bikini top and choosing triangular shapes instead, teaming them with string-tie bottoms that offer moderate coverage at the back.
Those of you cringing in horror at even attempting to try on such a creation can relax, because whilst tiny bikinis are in, so to are all-in-one swimsuits. These are ideal for the larger figure and also for those who enjoy swimming and come in many different styles to help accentuate good features and compliment problem areas.
The more adventurous will probably go for cutaway one-pieces, which were so popular last year. This summer’s updated styles come in super-bright colours complete with buckles, belts and retro-inspired prints. In between a bikini and costume, these clever designs are incredibly sexy for poolside posing, but perhaps not so suitable for serious sunbathing.
Talking of prints, the ready-to-wear collections of the catwalks were awash with floral prints, and so too are this summer’s swimwear designs.
No delicate Laura Ashley prints here though, the costumes are adorned with large flower patterns and heady colours to set pulses racing. Sailor stripes are going to be huge too, with black/blue and white striped designs in both one and two-piece styles being dressed up with bright red or hot pink chunky jewelry, beach bags and hats for all-out beach glamour.

Another style to return hot on the heels of 2007 are mismatched tops and bottoms. This trend is fantastic for those who cannot afford a different ensemble every day. The trick is to buy three bikinis that have a linking theme, be it a block colour or a bold print, and mixing them up.
Bandeaus are also back again, worn with boy shorts or ultra-skimpy bikini bottoms. Some styles come with extra fabric to tie around the neck for a semi-halter effect.
To complete the look, flowing trapezes are also very much in fashion this year, worn over a bandeau for a comfortable style for summer lounging. Toga wraps are also very wearable, perfect for wrapping up in for a nip to the bar or some pool-side snacks.
Hot colours for this summer are orange, black and white, teamed up with chunky armfuls of bangles and wraparound beaded bracelets. White sunglasses are also really hot this summer, with 80’s style Ray Ban designs making a serious comeback. Indeed, as catwalk shows revealed, whilst the costume itself is important, so too are the accessories that boost the look so don’t leave home without something to lift your outfit.
So whether you have the guts to go teeny or would rather cover up and only hint at what’s on offer, make sure your costume highlights your best assets, feels comfortable and looks sensational. And don’t forget the accessories!
Next time in Elegancia, we review the hottest sandals and bags to hit the summer headlines.