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The sun is shining on campus, which likely means nobody wants to be there. The crash of the waves on the beach, the splashing of the kids by the pool and the hum of the motorboat on the lake have everyone daydreaming of life outside the classroom. Nothing sounds more like summer than the chance to put on a swimsuit and kick back with friends and a cold beverage. When it comes to what’s hip at the ol’ swimming hole, this season boasts more styles to choose from and more emphasis on finding personal swimwear identity than ever (while still being as practical and flattering as possible).
String bikinis and banana hammocks move over—style is the new skin. A vast array of swimwear choices make your statement more personal than ever on the beach, at the lake or by the pool. Men are seeing a wider variety of lengths in swim trunks, and ladies are seeing a strong revival in vintage-style suits and one-pieces.
Women’s swimsuits are creeping up the waistline, with more old-glam cuts and shapes being sold in stores. The one-piece, which was not long ago relegated to the older crowd, has firmly made its way to fast-fashion retailers such as Forever 21 and H&M, with options under $30 for deal-seeking students. For gentlemen, swim trunks are still the staple, but swimwear designers are offering more options than ever for consumers to showcase their personalities.
Though more conservative styles are enjoying a moment, bikinis are still the firm favorite among trend-based women’s retailers and college dudes, and uniqueness is thus of utmost importance. Now, more than ever, bikinis are being made and shaped for women’s shapes and preferences. With everything from feminine, lacy bandeaus to sporty, durable halter tops, the most important factor in shopping for ladies this summer is finding something that flatters and enhances the personality.
Beyond style, things to keep in mind while searching for the perfect suit are fabric and shape. Make sure there is enough fabric to differentiate between your swimsuit and what might be mistaken for painted skin. Also, ladies, think about how you want your body to be enhanced. Women with a smaller frame on top would be wise to choose a bandeau or a shape that brings the silhouette outwards, while women who are extra-athletic in build may feel more feminine in a shaping halter.
One of the trendiest revivals this season is finding success after a year that saw a surge of body-appreciation messages in the media—more and more women are experimenting with high-waisted bottoms. Bikini bottoms held together by strings don’t necessarily offer the practicality that women want in a swimsuit, so embrace mom-jean-high waistlines that are now more stylish than ever. Styles are popping up right out of the 1940s, with sweetheart necklines and feminine flair. For the more laid-back lady, fringe is still a frontrunner in swimwear fads. The past couple years saw the emergence of brightly colored fringe, and it is still at an all-time high for looking cool at the pool.
Fellas, it is time to step up to the plate with the ladies; now, more than ever, swimwear is for you, too. Choose from an array of different patterns and lengths designed to suit various summertime lifestyles ranging from at-sea to backyard lounging. For a laid-back, surfer-inspired style, board shorts in a casual plaid that fall just below the knees can take you from the waves straight to the bar for a pint. For the guy looking for a bit more of a fashion statement, some above-knee trunks in a bright color announce how much fun you’re having. If you’re trying to show off more of your personal style, consider adding a warm-weather hat and shades.
It’s smart to be ready for anything when you’re going to spend time in the sun. Having a shirt and shoes just in case you need service is probably wise, and, of course, can be a great way to solidify your funky-fresh fashion statement. Gentlemen, consider bringing along a graphic tank and sandals. It’s summer, so neutral flip-flops are a safe bet. If you want something even more laid-back, consider a bright sandal; but remember those probably aren’t appropriate for a restaurant. Ladies, a loose dress or light cover-up is a great thing to have, as well as some comfy, neutral sandals; keep an extra pair in your tote just in case. Preparation is the best way to go with the summer flow.