It’s summer, and we know what that means… pool parties and beach bumming. And that also means: bathing suits!
Very few women look forward to shopping for swim suits, so thank goodness it’s so easy now to try them on in your own home — there are thousands of different styles to choose from readily available online.
We’ve selected several we like best — Anyone can be a beach bombshell in these retro tummy-trimming, booty-boosting, chest-complimenting suits without breaking the bank. The best thing about going vintage-inspired is that these are styles—not trends. You’ll never feel like a fashion faux pas when your flattering retro swimsuit fits correctly and the patterns compliment your curves.
We did some web-sleuthing and searched high and low for the best-reviewed, nicest-priced, wow-worthy numbers and found a what seemed like gazillions of flattering retro swim suits! We even took the plunge and bought one of our very favorites to take it for a test drive in Malibu. Tough job, but somebody’s gotta do it! That’s Really Rather fashion editor Staci Layne Wilson pictured above-left in her patriotic pin-up suit made by Ekouaer.
5 Flattering Retro Swimsuits for all Types & Tastes
Classic Cutie
This vintage-inspired monokini features an adjustable halter neck, front tie, button detail, vibrant colors, striped/polka dot decoration with lining, and fits as expected for the curvier figure. This print is patriotic but if red-white-and-blue isn’t you, Ekouaer has you covered with a shipload of different colors and patterns that still feature this padded top and thigh-covering boyleg. Nylon and Spandex. Get it on Amazon for $31.99
Tropical Paradise
This ModCloth one-piece is retro, fabulous, and feminine! It’s equally sultry and supportive thanks to its plunging V-neckline, scoop back, faux wrap-front with side-tie closure, light rouching, and padded bust. Polyester and Spandex, with nylon lining. Get it from ModCloth for $69.99
Gingham Style
This cute suit embodies the spirit of the California lifestyle filled with sun, surf, and sand. Cupshe designs with different body types and personalities in mind and they offer everything from the timeless elegance of a simple black one-piece, to sophisticated bikinis, to adorable flirty two-pieces with retro prints. This hot number is available on Amazon for $29.99
Blue Lagoon
This bright and cheery fashion statement from Palma is sure to please. The Blue Ibiza Open Water style has dark piping to offset the bold pattern and to draw the eye in and show off your curves. The underwire top has additional foam to add fullness and the straps are adjustable. Nylon and Spandex. From Lilly Pulitzer for $158
Surfer Sensational
Axsea in Surfers Point, Australia has thoughtfully created a line of innovative, professional-grade gear for water sports and X-games enthusiasts like themselves… but some of us like the long sleeves for other reasons (Sunscreen? Flabby arms, anyone? Don’t worry – we won’t ask you to raise your hand). One Amazon review says, “Cheeky in a good way, and fits like a glove.” Axsea has several colors and styles—this one is called the Elf. Get it on Amazon for $39.99
To find out how to keep your hair looking great while swanning about in your flattering retro swimsuits, click here.
–Staci Layne Wilson
Bring the good old days back and look like a pin-up girl in these flattering retro swimsuits you can try on at home. You’ll make a big splash!