Suit Up For Summer

By Jené Luciani
8 Steps to Finding the Perfect Swimsuit

This time of year, the barrage of bra questions I receive on a daily basis inevitably turns instead to those regarding something that’s just as tough to find the right fit – swimwear.

When it comes to quintessential California-chic fashions, few designers come to my mind more quickly than Trina Turk. Turk’s women’s wear collections – known for impeccable fit and gorgeous prints and colors inspired by the Southern California lifestyle – has been a high-end department store mainstay since 1995. In 2007, the former surf-wear designer forayed into the swimwear category and is now celebrating the launch of her first capsule collection with Grace Bay Club resort in Turks & Caicos fittingly called Trina Turks & Caicos.

I caught up with Turk to get a sneak peak at the collection just in time for summer and of course find out her 8 steps to finding the perfect swimsuit.

Step 1: Figure it Out
Identify your body type and then choose a silhouette to flatter it best.  For example, if you have a smaller bustline, a padded style, ruffles or horizontal stripes will add volume up top.  Also, triangle bikini tops really look best on smaller busted women.  Conversely, if you’re busty, choose a supportive style with a halter neckline that has a band under the bust and a wider strap that ties behind your neck, a one piece with a v neckline, or a bra-sized swimsuit with built-in underwire.

To minimize your booty, sometimes a lower rise cut or rings on the sides gives the illusion of smaller hips. Avoid buying too tight—if elastic is digging in it makes you look bigger.  Another trick is to wear a darker color bottom with a lighter color top—dark always minimizes.  If you really want hip coverage, go for a sash bottom or a boy short. And to completely distract from your hips, go for a one piece with a plunging v-neck.

Step 2: Get Comfy
The most important thing is to be comfortable –Whether it’s more coverage or less, feeling comfortable will ensure your confidence while you’re bearing your bod!

Step 3: Quality Time
Pick a quality suit with fabric that will support you.  If the fabric feels thin in the dressing room, beware of it getting baggy as soon as you hit the water.

Step 4: Try Before You Buy
Take the time to try a variety of styles and sizes, and try things that might not appeal to you on first glance.  Swimwear shapes and prints can surprise you– sometimes the thing that doesn’t seem like “you” ends up being the most flattering.

Step 5: Color Counts
Choosing the right color suit can make all the difference! Try a variety of colors and see what looks best with your skin tone.  This season it’s easy to choose bright color over basic black—there are so many gorgeous options available.   Also, don’t be afraid of taupe, browns and other tawny neutrals—they can be super chic!

Step 6: Avoid Over-accessorizing
No Beyoncé-on-the-yacht looks, here. Skip coordinating jewelry and pick a suit with unique and striking hardware. Trina Turk swimwear often features hardware with cabochon stones or organic, textured shapes.

Step 7: Don’t Forget to Cover Up
Cover ups are a staple for every trip to the beach or tropical destination. Throw it on after a sunning session and head in for a bite to eat. It travels with ease and instantly flatters any silhouette, and can be worn as a dress with heels for a poolside party.

Step 8: Rear-View Mirror
Saggy behinds or creeper-uppers, beware. Don’t forget to look at yourself from the back! The backside view counts as much as the front, especially in swimwear!