Swimwear Double-Up
Swimwear isn't just for the beach. Most of the gorgeous swimsuits
designers create are meant to be seen, and not really to withstand sand
and surf. Most of the things you want to actually use in the water need to
be securely tied, slip-free, sturdy, and wettable. That usually means
plain!
To strike a balance, find one completely amazing bathing suit. It may
take multiple years to find a perfect two-piece, and don't be afraid to
mix and match colors and sizes.
Then if you really do swim and surf and play on the beach (oh, you
should!), find a tank suit or something else that looks good on you that
won't be ripped off by a particularly strong wave.
So you'll wear your amazing bathing suit for tanning and just lying on the
beach, and when you actually want to get drenched, wear your other one.
But it doesn't end there: take your bathing suits other places.
A tube or triangle top is great under sheer shirts or a partially
unbuttoned shirt. Allow the bathing suit to peek out if you like, or use it as additional coverage (think of it as a pretty bra).
You could also wear it under a backless dress if it has a
pretty back (like a bow or tie, or if it clips in front). Halter necks
also look good with button-down shirts. Don't worry about ties sticking out at the back of your neck - they give you a "I just came from the beach" look others will crave.
Bottoms of course can double as underwear when you have been lazy to do
laundry, but don't forget their value under sheer pants as well, and thong bikinis can help you out on clingy pants.
Boy short bottoms and board shorts are good for working out and running,
and they can peek out above low slung pants. Got an old skirt bottom from
ages ago? Wear it over one or more ruffled or tiered skirts.
Tank suits also do double duty. They can be worn with jackets and under
jeans. They look sleek with a belt and over a full skirt. They can even be
worn backwards over another tank top! And you can wear them for workouts, too.
With these combinations, you'll be sure to wear your bathing suit
year-round and have a few more pieces to add to your wardrobe to mix
things up.