Retro Chic Swimwear

Hi Donna,

I’m going to the beach soon and I don’t know what to wear. I wouldn’t call myself fat, but I’m a bit pudgy in some areas, particularly my stomach and thighs. As much as I would love to wear a bikini, I know I’ll just feel self-conscious. I don’t want to be all covered up, though. I have some one-piece swimsuits, but they are boring and outdated. I’ve been looking forward to this beach trip for a long time so I really want to make an impression. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Marie, 24


Hi Marie!

You're in luck as there are soooo many new swimwear styles to choose from this season that can cleverly camouflage your tummy! The puson is a common problem area for majority of Pinays, and a quick way to conceal it would be to wear high-waist, retro-inspired bikini sets. There are very cute ones from The Ramp in Crossings and Wanderlust. Another option would be to go for vintage-style one-piece suits that have sweetheart necklines. Check out styles like this from Naked Sun and Soak.

Regarding your thighs, this might be counter intuitive, but go for bottoms that ride higher up your sides instead of going for boy-leg bottoms that reach down to the top of your thighs. A higher cut will make your legs look longer, while a boy-cut bottom will only accentuate any lumps or bumps and also shorten your legs.

Lastly, enjoy your long-awaited beach vacay! A happy, confident girl is always a sight to behold!

Love, D

You can now get advice straight from our Fashion Director, Donna Cuna-Pita. For your style inquiry, send your name, age, and question to Donna with the subject "Fashion 101." Email  her at cosmophilippines@gmail.com. She'll answer one question every week!