How to choose a swimsuit on vacation — what you need to consider

Summer holidays are conducive to relaxing by the water. A well-chosen swimsuit will help you feel comfortable on the beach, by the pool and on the resort embankment. How to choose a stylish and comfortable set among a variety of models and fabrics, why it is important to take into account not only aesthetics, but also functionality, read the Izvestia article.

The history of creating a swimsuit, which models exist

The swimsuit as an element of the wardrobe in its usual form did not appear immediately. The first beach outfits of the 19th century looked more like form-fitting sportswear. They completely covered the skin and were made of thick fabric so as not to expose the body even accidentally — such were the customs of that time.

The situation began to change at the beginning of the 20th century. The fashion for relaxing by the sea and the admission of women to participate in water sports forced designers to create more comfortable and loose styles.

Louis Reard made a real revolution in 1946. He presented to the public a bikini, a minimalistic model that changed the idea of beach fashion. This bold outfit initially caused a mixed reaction, but quickly became a symbol of liberation and femininity.

Over the decades of its existence, the bikini has undergone many modifications, from miniature models with thin ties to more closed versions with a high waist or wide straps. To date, this is the most open version of a bathing suit, which allows you to get a uniform tan.

One-piece swimsuits are also considered classics. They are versatile and practical, provide support and visually stretch the silhouette. This option is relevant both on the beach and in the pool, especially if you have to actively move in the water.

Tankini is a hybrid of a one—piece and a two-piece swimsuit. Its upper part is made in the form of an elongated top or T-shirt covering the stomach. And the lower part is classic swimming trunks or shorts.

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Introduced in the late 1990s, this option quickly gained popularity due to its versatility. It is chosen by women who prefer a more restrained style or who want to hide certain features of the figure, without giving up the comfort of a split swimsuit. This model is suitable for outdoor activities, playing on the beach and swimming.

A bandeau is a type of swimsuit with a strapless bodice. The name comes from the French word bandeau, which means "strip of cloth". The main feature of this model is its laconic cut. It is especially popular with girls who want to get an even tan without traces of straps.

The bandeau accentuates the line of the shoulders and collarbones, adding sophistication to the look. It does not involve strong support, so it may not be suitable for activities near the water. However, modern models are often complemented with an internal silicone band, underwire or removable straps, which makes them more versatile and comfortable.

A halter is a model with a lace—up bodice or a clasp behind the neck. This shape leaves the shoulders and collarbones exposed, while providing good chest support, visually lengthens the neck and emphasizes the neckline. It is often used in both one-piece and two-piece swimwear, including sports and modeling.

The halter is convenient for outdoor activities because it holds more securely than classic straps and does not slip off during movement.

Sports swimsuits designed for active swimming and training can be singled out separately. They are made of dense fabrics with high resistance to chlorine and do not restrict movement.

Modern collections also include models with long sleeves and high-rise. These swimsuits protect the skin from active UV rays and are often used for surfing and water sports.

To choose the optimal model, first of all you need to determine what kind of vacation you are going to have — a relaxing beach or active water sports. It is also important to choose the degree of "openness": for some, beauty and an even tan tone are important, while for others, skin protection from the harmful effects of sunlight is important.

Swimsuit style — how to emphasize your figure competently

When choosing a swimsuit, it is worth considering the features of the body, this will not only make you feel confident, but also adjust the proportions.

For women with an hourglass figure (shoulders and hips are about the same width, and the waist is pronounced, the proportions are clearly defined), almost any style is suitable — from bikinis to one-piece models.

Owners of the "pear" or "triangle" silhouette (the upper part of the body is narrower than the lower, the shoulders are narrow, the chest is small, the hips are wider than the shoulders, the waist is pronounced) should shift the focus to the upper part — use bodices with decor, wide straps or contrasting prints.

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For those with a figure that resembles a "rectangle" (shoulders, waist and hips are about the same width, slim build, but without pronounced curves), models with cutouts at the waist, vertical inserts or drapery will help.

For "apples" (the main volume is concentrated in the upper body, large breasts, slender legs, the waist is weak or absent), it is better to choose swimsuits with a high waistline, tight fixation and a V-neck — they stretch the silhouette and visually hide the volume in the abdominal area.

And the "inverted triangle" figure (the upper part is more massive than the lower, the shoulders are noticeably wider than the hips, the chest is often large, the waist is weakly pronounced, the legs are slender) will look harmoniously in swimsuits with a bright or voluminous bottom and a restrained top.

How not to make a mistake with the size of a swimsuit

An incorrectly selected size can ruin the impression of even the most expensive model. A swimsuit that is too big will not fit properly and keep its shape, especially in the water. And too small can rub the skin in the heat, create discomfort.

In order not to make a mistake, it is important to take into account not only the volume of the chest and hips, but also the height, especially if we are talking about a single model. It is better to focus on the international size grid, and when buying online, choose marketplaces with the possibility of fitting and returning.

It is better to measure the product in bright, natural light. The ideal time is before lunch on a hot day.

Material and quality of swimsuit tailoring

Equally important is the quality of the fabric from which the swimsuit is sewn. Elastic and quick-drying materials such as polyamide, microfiber with lycra or spandex are optimal. They do not fade, retain their shape and are resistant to chlorine and salt water. Polyester is a more affordable material, but it loses its appearance faster and can stretch.

Special attention should be paid to the lining and the strength of the seams. Double stitching, smooth texture, and lack of distortion are signs of a high—quality product.

Also, before buying, you need to check the symmetry of the parts. The cups should sit tightly, support the chest, and not deform in the water. All decorative elements (rings, buckles or inserts) should be well secured and not create discomfort when wearing.

How many swimsuits to take on vacation

The number of swimsuits in the luggage depends not only on the length of the vacation, but also on its format. For a short trip, two models are enough, which are combined with beach clothes and colored accessories. One is for active swimming, the other is for walking, relaxing by the pool or photo shoots.

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If the vacation lasts longer than a week, it is optimal to have three or four options. This will allow you to alternate swimsuits while maintaining their shape and freshness, as well as avoid wearing wet cloth, which can cause hypothermia or skin irritation.

Additional models will help you vary your style depending on your mood and situation, whether it's morning swimming, active games by the water, or evening activities on the beach.

Which swimwear models should be avoided?

You should not take swimwear with you on a trip with an excessive number of decorative elements, unstable dyes and rigid seams.

Low-quality products quickly lose their shape, fade in the sun and cannot withstand contact with salt or chlorinated water. An unsuccessful fit and aggressive prints can visually disrupt the proportions of the body and create discomfort.

Earlier, Izvestia was told what to put in a first-aid kit for a vacation at sea.