Summer is here, meaning it’s time to hit the beach or the pool for fun in the sun. Whether planning a tropical vacation or just wanting to cool off in your local swimming pool, finding the perfect swimming costume is essential. But with so many options available, it can be a daunting task. To help you navigate the sea of swimwear choices, we’ve compiled a list of tips to guide you in choosing the perfect swimming costume.
Know Your Body Shape
The first step in finding the perfect swimming costume is to know your body shape. Understanding your body type will help you choose a swimsuit that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. Common body shapes include hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Research which swimwear styles are most flattering for your specific body shape and use that as a starting point.
Consider Your Activity Level
Think about what activities you’ll be doing while wearing your swimming costume. A stylish one-piece or bikini may be suitable if you plan to lounge by the pool or beach. However, if you’re into active water sports like surfing or swimming, you’ll want a swimsuit that provides adequate support and stays in place.
Choose the Right Fabric
Swimming costumes come in various fabrics, each with its advantages. Lycra and spandex blends are known for their stretch and comfort, making them an excellent choice for most swimmers. Chlorine-resistant fabrics are a must if you frequent chlorinated pools. If you’re concerned about the environment, consider eco-friendly options from recycled materials.
Prioritise Comfort
Comfort is critical when selecting a swimming costume. Ensure the swimsuit you choose fits well without causing discomfort or chafing. Pay attention to the straps, leg openings, and neckline to ensure they won’t dig into your skin. If you’re trying on swimwear in-store, feel free to move around and bend to ensure it stays in place during various activities.
Find Your Style
One-piece swimsuits are classic, but you can get everything from bikinis to tankinis these days. Find a style that complements your body shape and suits your style and comfort level. Don’t be afraid to try something new, but always prioritise how confident and comfortable you feel in the swimsuit.
Consider Coverage
The amount of coverage you want is a personal preference. Some people prefer full-coverage one-pieces, while others love the freedom of a bikini. Tankinis provides an excellent middle ground with a bit of extra coverage. Choose a style that makes you feel at ease and confident.
Think About Colour and Print
Colour and print can significantly impact how a swimming costume looks on you. It’s thought that darker colours make you look slimmer, while bright colours and patterns can draw attention to specific body parts. Consider your skin tone and which colours make you feel best when choosing.
Test for Durability
Swimming costumes are exposed to a lot of wear and tear from sun, sand, and chlorine. Check for quality stitching, durable fabric, and proper care instructions to ensure your swimsuit lasts. Rinse your swimsuit with cold water after each use and avoid wringing it out, as this can damage the fabric.
How Do I Ensure My Swimming Costume Lasts Longer?
Ensuring that your swimming costume lasts longer involves proper care and maintenance. Swimwear can be delicate due to exposure to chlorine, salt water, sun, and repeated stretching; if you follow these tips, it will last longer:
Rinse After Every Use
Rinse your swimsuit with cold, fresh water immediately after swimming in a pool or the ocean. It helps remove chlorine, salt, and other chemicals damaging the fabric.
Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water
Avoid wringing or twisting your swimsuit to remove excess water, which can stretch and damage the fibres. Instead, gently press the water out with your hands.
Hand Wash with Mild Detergent
Use a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicates or swimwear. Avoid regular laundry detergents, as they can be too harsh and lead to fabric deterioration.
Avoid Machine Washing
Never machine wash your swimsuit. The agitation and spinning in washing machines can stretch and damage the fabric and elastic.
Do Not Soak for Extended Periods
Avoid soaking your swimsuit for long durations, which can weaken the fabric and fade colours. Briefly wash it in cold water with a mild detergent, then rinse thoroughly.
Dry Flat in the Shade
Lay your swimsuit flat on a clean towel to air dry in the shade. Avoid hanging it by the straps, as this can cause stretching. Direct sunlight can fade colours over time, so keep it away from strong sunlight while drying.
Rotate Between Swimsuits
If you swim frequently, consider rotating between multiple swimsuits. It gives each time to recover between wears, reducing wear and tear.
What Styles Of Swimming Costumes Are Available?
Several swimming costume styles are available to suit different body types, preferences, and activities. Here are some of the most common techniques:
One-Piece Swimsuit
This classic style covers the torso and is famous for its modesty and versatility. One-pieces come in various designs, including halter neck, scoop neck, bandeau, and more.
Bikini
Bikinis consist of a separate top and bottom. The top can vary in style, such as triangle, bandeau, push-up, or sporty, while the base can be high-waisted, hipster, thong, or Brazilian cut.
Tankini
For more coverage around the middle, a tankini is a two-piece swimwear with a top that looks like a tank top. It’s a great option if you want the convenience of a two-piece with extra coverage.
Swim Dress
Swimdresses combine a one-piece swimsuit with a flowing skirt-like overlay. They are flattering and provide extra coverage around the hips and thighs.
Monokini
A monokini is a one-piece swimsuit with strategic cutouts, giving the appearance of a bikini from the back while maintaining one-piece coverage from the front.
Sum It Up
Choosing the perfect swimming costume doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering your body shape, activity level, fabric, comfort, style, coverage, colour, and durability, you can make an informed decision that will have you looking and feeling your best at the beach or by the pool. Remember that the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in your swimsuit. Be bold and try on a few options until you find the one that’s perfect for you.
