shoes and bags, you should think of swimwear as an investment purchase, rather than something to source from the bargain basement.
Swimwear fabrics and styles are evolving all the time, and you can now get everything from 2 in 1 reversible styles, to “miracle suits” which nip you in, in all the right places, to tops for smaller busted women which incorporate gel inserts and even miniature air bags!
Every woman is unique, so rather than be prescriptive about which style of swimwear suits which shapes, I’d definitely recommend taking a deep breath, putting aside a couple of hours, and beginning your own personal crusade to find the perfect swimwear.Some top tips before you hit the changing room
• Do keep an open mind about whether to go for a swimsuit or bikini – bikinis are not just for teenagers, and can actually look much more flattering than covering up
• Bottoms that sit lower on the hips, or with side ties, are great for lengthening legs
• For the smaller busted, avoid rigid padded cups – soft padding, bandeau style gathering, or gel inserts look much more flattering
• For the larger busted, be properly supported by having a bikini top or swimsuit fitted by an expert, as you would a bra
• Buy early – because by July or August all the best styles will be sold out
• Think of a spray tan and pedicure as an essential part of your overall look!
Address book
Chameleon, 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 755405
Eve, The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 273969
Ford’s of Oakham, 8 Church Street, Oakham, LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 722654
John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1NL Tel: 01733 344644
Land’s End www.landsend.co.uk and factory outlet at Lands’ End Way, Pillings Road, Oakham LE15 6US Tel: 01572 758014
Sly, 9a St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 482870