As we enter warmer months, it’s time to start thinking about swimwear. There are so many styles to choose from this year. There’s something for every style; from conservative to revealing. And, many of you will be happy to know the one-piece has made a big jump from mommy-wear to on-trend.


When choosing a new swimsuit, the most important thing to remember is that you should feel comfortable. If you feel the suit is too revealing or you’re worried about how you look, you won’t exude confidence. And, we as we all know, confident women are beautiful regardless of shape or size. Own what you wear and you’ll pull off the style.


Victoria’s Secret is a great place to shop for swimwear. Unfortunately, most of their inventory is online, preventing you from trying items on before purchasing. If you’re thinking of trying a new style this season (which you should!), find that style in a store and make sure it’s something you like and feel great in! If you like the style, but it’s not the perfect suit for you, you can shop online for a suit in the same style. Overall, there seems to be a greater variety of swimwear available online than in stores. Of course, this is true in general, but it’s especially true for swimwear!

Swimwear Styles for 2009

1. One-Shoulder

The one-shoulder style that became popular last Fall is even huger this Spring. And, it’s found its way to swimwear. While one-shoulder suits were very prominent on the runway, they’re a bit more difficult to find in stores. I predict we’ll see many one-shoulder suits next Summer. If you wear one this year, you won’t run the risk of wearing the same style as everyone else!

Shown: Trina Turk One-Shoulder Swimsuit, VIX Cut-Out One-Piece from Victoria’s Secret, Rickrack Asymmetrical Swimsuit

2. Monokinis

We can thank Paris Hilton for the widespread popularity of the monokini. A monokini is basically a bikini that’s been connected with a piece of fabric. This trend is pretty easy to find in stores this year. When shopping online, most stores have a section exclusively for monokinis.

Shown: Leopard Monokini, Victoria’s Secret Black Monokini, T-Cut Monokini

3. Retro

Sonia Rykiel was just one designer showing retro-styled suits for Spring. Usually one piece, the retro suit is being characterized by ruching, high-waist bottoms, short-like bottoms and halter tops.
I’ve listed a few options below. Check out the last one–it’s a vintage suit from the 40′s. There’s only one and it’s pretty pricey, but very cool!

Shown: Carmen Marc Valvo Suit, Michael Kors Skirted Bandeau Suit, Vintage Swimsuit from Market Publique

4. Bandeau

The bandeau top can be seen in a variety of styles, on bikinis, one-pieces and monokinis. It’s not a new trend, but is definitely quite popular this season and very easy to find in stores. This is a style that you’ll have to shop around for until you find the suit that’s just right. Depending on the suit, bandeau styles have a tendency to flatten the chest–not so good for those of us who aren’t as well-endowed. On the flip side, bandeaus can be a bit precarious for those who are well-endowed; you’ll want to find a suit that you won’t fall out of.

Shown: Amber Clover Bandeau, Victoria’s Secret Bandeau Bikini, Beaded Bandeau Top

5. Triangle

The triangle bikini is a classic look that works on almost everyone. This season, go for basic black or fuschia. Or, add a bit of pizazz with animal print or embellishments.

Shown: Fuschia Triangle Bikini, Animal Print Bikini, Embellished Bathing Suit

6. Halter

Like triangle bikinis, halter suits are fairly classic and are a style that’s popular almost every season.

Shown:
Tommy Bahama Halter, Halter Swimsuit, Tommy Bahama Halter Bikini

Colors, Prints and Bling

For each of the above styles, certain colors, prints and embellishments seem to be more popular than others this season.

Animal Prints

Animal Prints, specifically giraffe and zebra, can be found on almost every style of suit.

Fuchsia

Fuchsia seems to be the ‘it’ color for swimwear this Spring. Luckily, it looks good on pretty much every skin tone.

Basic Black

Like the LBD, a basic black suit is a must-have for your swimwear collection.

Embellishments

Add some bling to your beach look by going for something adorned with sequins, sparkles, shells, etc.

Cut-Outs

The Monokini obviously has cut-outs. Cut-outs are also trendy on bikinis and one pieces.

Your Thoughts?

What do you think of these styles? Which swimwear style do you think is a must-have?
Leave your thoughts in the comments!