LAURIE’S PAGE
escaping the
WINTER BLUES
C
oming from someone who was born and raised in the forever warm U.S. Virgin
Islands, summer is my favorite season. To be fair, summer is the year-round
season back home in St. Thomas. That being said, it’s no surprise that the beach
is my safe place. Clear waters, red noses, and sand everywhere brings me a kind
of solace that layers of sweaters, boots, and scarves could never achieve. I don’t know about
you, but I’m ready to swap my lattes and hot cocoas for smoothies and iced coffees! The
warm weather is calling to me, and that means it’s time to start thinking about what we are
going to wear, ladies. I’m not talking about flowy sundresses and strappy gladiator sandals;
I’m talking about the head-turning, top-of-the-line bathing suits that will guarantee you will
stand out. Here’s the inside scoop on the top five swim brands I absolutely can’t live without.
KOA SWIM
Let’s be real: one of the hardest parts about
shopping for quality bikinis is getting a
unique design for a good price. With the
clever engineering of KOA Swim, all of their
swimwear is reversible, so you’re getting
two styles for the price of one! The idea is
that everyone should have the freedom to
change their unique style while still having
a piece that perfectly curves to their body.
The Oasis Top is by far one of my
favorite pieces from KOA because
Oasis Top, $94,
of its attention-grabbing design.
koaswim.com
The off-the-shoulder style is
perfect for the pool or a night out!
Pair it with high-waisted shorts,
reverse it, and you’ve taken your
bathing suit from the beach to
the streets.
BY LAURIE BENGOA
BANDITS SWIMWEAR
Every girl needs a swimsuit that breaks the rules. With Bandits
Swimwear, you get just that and more! The brand is known for
its remarkable swimwear that is made for girls who own their
femininity and are fierce in their approach of a sexy, yet versatile
style. My absolute favorite from Bandits is the Ainsley Diamond
Bra because of its sexy yet modest contradiction. Its high-neck,
backless feature and diamond peephole front gives you that hint
of flirtiness that every swimsuit needs. The best part is that its soft
fabric is made of Italian Spandex, making your swim top secure
and perfect for working out, relaxing, or a quick dip in the pool.
POEMA SWIM
Once I had a taste of reversible
swimwear, I couldn’t get enough.
Poema Swim has taken modest one pieces
to the next level with its thin straps and
cleavage cut-out design. The Marble Paracas
One Piece from Poema is definitely a good
go-to for long days out in the sun with
friends and family. From boring to sexy, this
reversible suit looks great with any body
type. You get a good balance of conservative
and flirty while having a double lining for
extra support. The marbled design is a
one-of-a-kind detail, which is a great bonus.
Ainsley Diamond Bra, $104,
banditsswimwear.com
FLEUR SWIM
I’m a firm believer that every girl needs to
Flores One
have a one-piece bathing suit in her closet,
Piece, $180,
and Fleur Swim has some of the best!
fleurswim.com
Based off of the motto “include everyone”
and “flatter every body,” Fleur has created one-of-a-kind suits that
help you feel comfortable in your own skin while being a fashion
icon. My absolute fave from the Fleur SP18 collection is the Flores
one-piece in Montauk Stripe. It’s the best of both worlds for those of
us who aren’t sure if they want a two-piece or a one-piece. The Flores
one-piece features a reversible strapless fit that can be worn either
with a simple solid front or reversed to show off a bandeau style
bikini top with a high-waisted bottom. The Montauk Stripe pattern is
simple but all you need for a long day out relaxing in the sun.
AUREIN SWIM
My last must-have bathing suit is a beauty-tip for all
of my fashionistas out there! Aurein Swim, originally
created for modern moms, has designed its suits to
embrace the after-baby mom figure. Even if you’re not a
mother, you can benefit from this awesome swimwear line.
Aurein Swim uses powernet technology and visual tricks to
help create the best body sculpture possible, so you always
look your best no matter your body type. My favorite simple suit from
Aurein is the Chloe One Piece! Environmentally friendly and made
with UPF 50+ fabric for sun protection, you’re going to look great
while keeping your skin safe. This classic one piece looks so flattering
and has daring cross strings on the back as a simple sexy design!
www.clichemag.com
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