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Written by Susan M. Stapleton
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 You’ve been working out since you made your New Year’s resolution to
have a swimwear-ready body, and looking good, I might say. Now you get
to pick out the suit that will show off your best assets. Even if you
don’t look like Sports Illustrated swimsuit models Niki Taylor or
Veronica Varekova, there’s still a suit for you.
The trends on the runway certainly influence the hottest styles of
swimwear out there, as do television shows such as “Laguna Beach,”
“America’s Next Top Model” or “Dr. 90210” and what celebrities are
wearing when caught on the beaches in the gossip rags.
Swimsuit options have come a long way since there were just one-pieces
or bikinis. There are many different shapes are out there, from
tankinis and side ties to boy shorts and bandau tops. While trends can
be influential here, it’s best to go with a look that will flatter your
figure.
You can do that with prints, too. While a simple, solid-color suit may
be your first choice, consider the latest looks that are showing up:
animal prints, art deco patterns, polka dots and funky geometric
shapes. Designers have also added accoutrements to suits, just like
they have the fashions on the runways. Braids, ruffles, jewels, beads,
metallic accents, lace, appliqués and overlays all make their way from
your favorite tops and dresses onto swimsuits.
In the color department, the runway trends again prove inspirational
here. Rich and vibrant are the colors of choice this season, so look
for jewel tones, such as emerald, steel blue, bronze and chocolate. Or,
like the runways for spring showed, go for basic black, white, or the
two mixed in a daring print.
Still not sure what to shop for? Here’s a look at a few of the
designers out there and what you can expect to look for in summer 2007.
Asha CoutureSwimwear designer Asha DeMarco has found her
designs on the pages of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Self,
Elle and InStyle, making her a favorite among the fashion-forward. If
you’re looking for the swimsuit featured in “Dr. No,” DeMarco has
created a signature piece that will have you sporting that iconic belt
on your bottoms. Look for Italian and French fabrics in sexy and
sophisticated designs.
GottexGottex typically shows its line of swimwear during
Fashion Week in New York, so you know this line is high fashion. Since
its beginnings in 1949, Gottex has been leading the swimwear industry
with its quality construction and designs. Look for graphic patterns in
bright colors on one- and two-piece suits.
NicolitaCuban-American designer Nicole Sainz now calls Los
Angeles home, which gives her designs that West Coast feel. Her
company, started four years ago, has gained the attention of Nordstrom
and high-end boutiques. Look for suits that appear sexy but offer
enough coverage to make you feel comfortable.
LennyLeave it to a Brazilian from the beaches of Rio de
Janeiro to make a sexy swimsuit—Lenny Niemeyer. This former landscape
architect turned her hand to swimwear in 1980, then ventured off on her
own in 1993. Since then, names such as Gisele Bündchen, Naomi Campbell,
Letícia Birkheuer, Isabelli Fontana, Michelle Alves, Ana Claudia
Michels and Devon Aoki have walked the runway in her styles. Look for
bold colors and dramatic effects in luxurious materials from Lenny.
VixDesigner Paula Hermanny is another Brazilian who creates
stylish and sexy designs with creative embellishments such as mother of
pearl and turquoise beading. She brought the Brazilian cut bikini to
the international market with her Vix line of swimwear. Since then,
she’s launched Sofia by Vix, a whimsical and flirty line for the
“tween” market, and Hermanny by Vix, a sophisticated and simple
collection for women wanting more coverage and support.
Susan M. Stapleton is LifeStyle Magazine’s fashion editor. She was
formerly the editor in chief of Philadelphia Style and D.C. Style
magazines.
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