Memorial Day is right around the corner, and store racks are filled with a variety of swimwear for the summer. Women of all shapes and sizes don't have to look far for the perfect fit and style.
Bikinis are no longer the only sought after bathing suits with one-piece suits making a comeback this season. The transition from plain styles to cutouts and more fashionable looks has caught the eyes of slim women and women with curves.
"Customers say the one-piece swimsuits make them look like they've lost 10 pounds and sucks inches away," said Emily Cordon, Dillard's sales associate.
In Auburn, some popular stores to shop for swimsuits are Old Navy, Target, Victoria's Secret and Dillard's.
The biggest fashion trends on the rise for this summer are ruffles, metallic, bright neon colors, animal prints, tie dyes and Hawaiian themes. A lot of halter ties and strapless tops are also on display in each store. The hottest colors which are selling fast are green, pink and turquoise.
Tankinis are also popular for women because of the coverage in the stomach area. For coverage, Dillard's carries an assortment of brands such as Jag, which has tummy control, and Coco Reef. Plus-size women can also find stylish one-pieces and tankinis in Old Navy and Target.
"We have a lot of black swimsuits that flatter curvy figures, and we also have added a lot of ruffle swimsuits to help camouflage certain areas," said Krysta Belton, Old Navy's style consultant.
Some women with curves are starting to buy more two-pieces with cover-ups, because of a rise in their comfort level. Visual tricks can provide comfort for women who want to play up their assets in bathing suits, or to cover them up.
"Women who are a size 10 or above shouldn't wear prints, but if they do they should also wear a solid color to take the focus away from different areas," said Becky Helms, a frequent Old Navy shopper.
Another tip to enhance an overall look is to wear bronzer underneath swimsuits because it can help accentuate parts of the body and make certain areas stand out. Jewelry and embellished heels or flip-flops help complete the look and make a fashion statement.
Another thing to consider when shopping for the right swimsuit, besides the style and fit, is if it's affordable or in a reasonable price range.
Old Navy and Target would be two top choices for a more reasonable priced swimsuit and a big selection of styles to mix and match with. Their prices range from $10-$29. Victoria's Secret and Dillard's are two options when searching for fashionable name brand pieces, and both stores have a great selection of push-ups and bikini bottoms with prices ranging from $18-$200.
Each store carries swimwear that will fit women of all shapes and sizes, whether they are fashion-forward or more conservative. So suit up, and keep up this summer!
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