Chic on the Beach

Beachwear is definitely upping its game for 2008 and is becoming 100 degrees more glamorous and chic. If you thought it was enough to allow that 5 year old bikini to resurface for yet another year then think again! This summer, beachwear is about femininity and injecting an element of retro sophistication into your look. Taking inspiration from old style Hollywood, it is all about revealing less and accessorising more to create a flirty, girly look. No longer are skimpy thong bikinis or swimsuits on trend but instead, we are thankfully opting for bandeau tops and beautifully designed swimsuits with more coverage.

Swimwear is becoming more innocent and reminiscent of the 1940’s. Bikinis have developed into more subtle two-pieces with delicate shorts which flatter the hips and waist. Ruffles, florals, and embellishments such as shells and beading have been seen on the catwalks and large bold prints a la boho chic will be a big trend. Polka dots and animal prints will also be extremely popular. If you still feel a little self conscious pre-tan then cover ups such as flirty beach skirts and chiffon blouses or beach shift dresses and tunics add a super chic way to conceal imperfections and of course, help to provide coverage from the sun.

Accessories or ‘dressing up’ the swimwear also play a huge part in completing the beachwear glam look. Metallics are a must this season and there are some fantastic bronze or silver totes available on the high street. Complete this with stacked bangles and jewelled sandals to add instant chic. Ethnic-inspired prints and accessories also look beautiful including shell embellished sandals and straw bags.

The beach is a great opportunity to experiment with colours that you would normally be apprehensive to test out. Go bold with corals and citrus colours or instead opt for a more subtle chocolate brown or muted tone swimsuit and inject colour with a tunic or dramatic accessory to add the wow factor! And of course, no beachwear look would be complete without a pair of uber-glam oversized sunglasses. Dior, D&G and Tom Ford have some fantastic pairs available which ultimately capture the essence of feminine beach glam.