New wave of suits recalls Old Hollywood
The tide won’t be the only thing rising on the beach this summer. Bikini bottoms are creeping higher and higher, over the belly button and to the natural waist. Designers like Michael Kors and Diane von Furstenberg have shown retro swimsuits inspired by the ’40s and ’50s on the runways for a few seasons, but now this ultra-feminine look is popping up - literally - everywhere (and at all price points). Stay tuned for body-hugging ruffles, vampy rucing, and skirted silhouettes fit for the modern pinup girl.
InStyle fashion director Cindy Weber Cleary says classic swim styles from iconic brands like Jantzen - which celebrated its 100th anniversary in January with the Heritage Collection, a line of vintage suits - are appealing to the masses in a recession.
“When the economy is bad, people look toward authenticity, instead of trendiness,’’ she said.
One-piece tank suits and high-waisted bikinis revealing just a slit of skin between top and bottom represent a sea change from barely there string thongs. But more fabric doesn’t mean less sex appeal.
“It’s a more modest cut, but it helps hide problem areas while still being totally sexy,’’ said Susan Gregg Koger, founder of online retailer ModCloth.
Whoever said less is more? Pick a suit straight out of Old Hollywood and hit the pool, curves and all. Hello, gorgeous.
