When you go bathing suit shopping this year, you may find that a bright orange string bikini doesn’t quite highlight your features in a flattering light anymore. The only problem is, it seems that bright orange string bikinis, or anything that had to have been specifically designed to accentuate stretch marks and sagging skin, are all that department stores are carrying these days. Well, that’s because the bathing suit market is still targeted at the college age generation, and what you see in stores is designed accordingly. What a select few in the bathing suit industry have caught on to, however, is that forty is the new twenty, and no longer are women resorting to swim skirts and cover-ups after their fortieth birthdays. There’s really no need to anymore, as women are looking and feeling better than ever. That is why we are redirecting a lot of our new designs for the 40 plus ladies who appreciate a quality made and sexy swimsuit. Until retailers get a clue, however, you’ll likely be forced to shop amongst a sea of teeny-bopper options. That being true, it can be easy to select a bathing suit that isn’t suited to your tastes, lifestyle, and, we’re just going to go ahead and say it, you’re age. To keep from looking like you’re really just trying too hard, read on.
First, let’s take a look at the style of bathing suit that you might consider. While you might have a body that allows you to flaunt your stuff in a bikini with no qualms, you might want to opt out. I say this not because a woman over forty can’t look great in a bikini, but because they send a certain message to other beach goers. They tend to say “Look at me!” or “I’m trying to look younger!” rather than giving off the intended sexy message. If you are looking for a bit more coverage without having to go the one-piece route, consider a tankini that bares just a bit of stomach and can be adjusted. On the other hand, if you prefer a one-piece, that doesn’t mean you can’t look hot. We are including many new one piece designs with matchin cover-ups, shaws, skirt and dresses that are coordinated together as a collection.
Secondly, take a serious look at the colors and prints that you have to choose from. Seeing a lot of florals, animal prints, jungle patterns, and metallics? Fight the urge right now. Again, they are just another part of the trend that is geared toward women under 40, or maybe even under 20. What you want is a color or pattern that is sleek, versatile, and sophisticated while at the same time flattering and fun. If you prefer bright colors, choose solids in white, green, blue, or red. Stay away from pink and orange, and avoid prints altogether. Bright prints are too busy and have a tendency to make adult women look older than they really are (think “granny” jokes). If you prefer darker colors, take advantage of navy, deep burgundy, and emerald green, which are all hot right now and are a refreshing change from traditional black. You can also opt for prints if you like darker colored bathing suits, but stick with small patterns. Finally, no matter what your color preferences are, stay away from glitter and metallics. There should be no need to elaborate here. Just don’t touch them.
Finally, find a bathing suit based on what it will accentuate, not what it will hide. No bathing suit is going to cover every single flaw, no matter how young or fit you are. Look for well tailored lines, supportive cups, and a slightly snug fit. By “slightly snug,” I mean that you should try to find a swimsuit that hugs the curves and creates a womanly shape, not one that will squeeze or make you uncomfortable. The problem with so many women over forty is that they shop for big, bulky swimsuits in an attempt to hide figure flaws, and instead bring more attention to them by doing so. No one looks perfect in a bathing suit unless they are getting paid well to do so. Think about what you love about your body and find a suit that flaunts it. Yes, that means you’ll have to ditch the oversize T-shirt and gym shorts this year. It’s so much more flattering to wear a suit built to flatter every single curve. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
