[trip style = any]
This post is written by Trip Styler's Assistant Wayfarer/Editor Heather.
"If you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain; if you like to look awesome, but think shopping is a pain." I may have taken a few liberties with a classic, but all lyrics point to swimsuit season and the trials of shopping for them. Hallelujah, this year's suits reference style more than shape, so they work for all silhouettes. Whether you're Barbados bound or planning to make a splash at home, here's our rundown of 2014's key trends.
Nineties
The dream of the nineties is alive in swimwear. From Baywatch tanks to high-cut briefs, and sunflower one-pieces to gingham bikinis, bathing suits are channeling Beverly Hills, 90210 faster than you can say Andrea Zuckerman.
left to right: J.Crew scoopback tank, Wildfox mermaid classic one piece, Topshop gingham bikini, Forever21 sunflower bikini, Kore flora maillot, Kovey line up one piece
Surf
Suits that blur the line between wetsuit and swimsuit have made their way from surf to sand this season. Look for features like neoprene, zippers and long sleeves, as well as a rash guard {or should I say fash guard?} when you need to hide your shoulders from the UV rays.
left to right: J.Crew ratti fish rash guard, Seea gaviota one piece, N.L.P. zip-front strapless bikini, Vitamin A cannes crop rash guard, Lisa Marie Fernandez lisa marie maillot
Photo Print
If being at the beach isn't enough, try wearing it on your body. This edgy and innovative print trend, popularized by Australia's We Are Handsome, is blowing up thanks to celebrity fans like Beyonce and Katy Perry. Call me a fangirl, but I'd sport this bold, graphic style any day.
left to right: Madewell tanksuit in beach day, We Are Handsome hideaway cupped corset, Gray Malin x Cover long-sleeved swimsuit & long-sleeved swim t, Nasty Gal lanikai swimsuit
Show Some Knee
Men, you finally have more to choose from than board shorts, Speedos and elasticized dad trunks. With your hands by your sides, look for a pair of trunks that extend 2-3" past your fingertips {6-8.5" inseam depending on height}.
left to right: Onia calder 7.5" board shorts, J.Crew 6.5" tab swim short, Volcom vin vang swim shorts, Mollusk cut out stripe trunks, Saturdays Surf colin swim shorts
Style Notes
- If you don't got it, don't flaunt it; look for a suit that plays up your best feature. Long torso? Look for a retro bikini or detailing on the back. Apple shape? Try a suit with a zipper to highlight your upper body. Curvy? Look for thick Lycra or surf-style neoprene and a sweetheart neckline. Boy shape? Create curves with exaggerated seams and colors, or choose a bold photo print.
- Color blocking is big this season. Follow the golden rule: dark colors on the places you want to play down and bright colors on the places you want to show off.
- Nineties-style tanks are fun throwbacks, but not ideal for ladies with larger chests.
Trip Styler Tip: Looking for the perfect cover-up? Throw on a kimono! We recently featured 12 of them on Jetset Style.
[photo collages by @heatherlovesit]