Doesn’t it always seem to sneak up? And like everything in the fun, fashion world, what you wear on the beach is just as important as what you wear on the streets. But what to wear?! Fear not––finding out what’s hot right now and coupling it with what feels right for you is a surefire formula for swimsuit success.

I don’t know who started the rumor that bikinis and tank suits were the only acceptable beach attire, but designers and department stores agree this rationale is outdated. The swimwear runways were dominated by newer, fresher takes on the timeless classic for summer ’08. Case in point: The “Monokini”. As an alternative to the original one piece, the monokini has cut outs at the sides or in the front that make for a pretty, unique silhouette. A great, well-priced choice meeting this criterion is Target’s Mossimo Black: Missoni Monokini.

For those who want a different and one-of-a-kind one-piece option, go retro in a vintage 50’s pin-up girl style suit.

Hip, boho paisleys are also popular again in the fashion mags––big, fun prints that don’t take themselves seriously are back again! Fierce yet free spirited, these suits have a sweet, 60’s style that anyone can pull off. Billabong’s aptly named “Garden of Love” triangle top and tie-Bottom should get you that free love look in no time. To combine the one piece and hippie paisley trends, pick up Old Navy’s women’s cross-back swimsuit in blue paisley and hit the sand!

Cute, girly suits never seem to go away, and who would want them to? One fabulous, feminine trend is ruffles, which when used a lot or a little add an adorable, effortless touch. Besides being pretty, they can also offer a bit more coverage––hey, sometimes more really is more! Be sure to check out Delia’s check ruffle “Skirtini” (new favorite fashion phrase!), and check knot bandeau.

But most importantly, the best advice for looking beautiful and bold on the beach is…be confident! The girl slouching on the sidelines, or forever under the umbrella never gets noticed. So go on, make a splash!!

xo L

Hi Kyrsti, and hey all!
Thanks for your comments and emails! And for reading my books. I wanted to let you know that i’ll be launching a new web site in the coming weeks and will be posting a new Kewlblog soon to tell you all about it. In the meantime i would really (!!)  love to hear from you about what kinds of things you’d be interested in reading about. If you have any thoughts at all about what you’d like to see on the site, feel free to chime in with the comments, and let me know.

Be back soon!

xo!!
Lisa