I don't know one single woman who actually likes buying a bathing suit. Not even the ones who generally love shopping. Men have it easy; they can choose from long and loose or tight and, how can I put it…revealing. Women on the other hand are offered a bewildering variety of bathing suits; everything from skimpy 'this doesn't even cover one square foot of fabric stuff it in your back pocket' two piece bikinis to the one piece that covers you, literally, from the neck to the top of the legs. And then there's everything in between. Add to that having to try the darned things on in front of a full length, three way mirror, and the day just goes downhill. Let's face it ladies, buying a bathing suit sucks.
But there's no getting around it, for most of us they're a necessity. To take the pain out of this year's shopping trip from hell, here are some suggestions to make things just a little bit less painful.
1. Before you even step foot in the store browse through catalogues and online for styles that you think will suit you, and ones that you like. They may be one and the same and they may not.
2. Pay attention to your figure type, your best assets and your less than flattering assets. Some suggestions;
a) large hips – choose a one or two piece suit with low cut legs. High cut and boy cut legs will make your hips appear larger than they really are. You should also try on suits with a skirt.
b) Full figures – prints and light colored suits can make you appear heavier, so opt for darker, solid colored suits.
c) Short torso/Long torso – Vertical stripes will make a short torso appear longer. Horizontal stripes will do the same for a long torso.
d) Bust – If you're amply endowed, look for suits with a built in underwire bra. If you'd like to add to what nature gave you, choose a suit with a padded bra.
3. Never buy a bathing suit without trying it on first. Never! When you try it on, move around in it. Stretch your body, lift your arms, squat down to the ground, sit down on a chair etc. If you're suddenly a lot more revealed than you'd like to be, it's not the right suit for you.
4. Buy a bathing suit that fits, regardless of the size printed on the tag. Sizing varies from brand to brand. It's just a number, so don't let it freak you out.
5. Take the photos and printouts with you to the store and find a salesclerk who will accommodate you and make suggestions. Most salesclerks really do want their customers to go home happy with their purchase. If you cannot find a sales clerk to help you, leave the store.
6. Don't be pressured into buying a bathing suit that you really don't like, or is just so-so. Considering the amount of money you'll shell out for a good suit, you have to love it.
7. We're our own worst critics when it comes to our bodies. Take a friend, but definitely not your husband or your partner, with you when you go shopping; someone whom you trust to give their honest opinion, whether you like it or not.
Good Luck!
