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          Always a Maxi Moment
          June 13, 2016
          Kirstie in Print
          Virginia’s Rare Beauty
          June 23, 2016

          Swimwear, don’t put it off!

          June 23, 2016

          For years I have ‘made do’ with past bikinis, a bit baggy, not great support, colour faded – great image I know. But this year I really wanted one that I felt good in. Buying on-line is tricky as you have to look past the perfect body models and think, how would this really work on me? I love the look and simplicity of a simple triangle bikini top and tie bottoms, but I have reached that stage when ‘side boob’ coverage is essential to offer a better shape and to get the right proportion of fabric and flesh!

          I have tried a few expensive, £100 plus and yes, loved the quality and fabric but didn’t like them enough on me. So I have done the slog of trying on lots from the high street and on-line and my favourites by far are from La Redoute and Next (who I never normally find anything).

          La Redoute have a great selection of classic stripes and spots but also grown up prints that I love. A lot (there are heaps to chooses from) of the bikinis come in separate size fittings so you can buy different tops and bottoms and they also offer style options in the same range so you can really choose your favourite combination. Size wise, I found the tops fitted like my bra sizing but I needed to go up a size on bottoms so they didn’t dig in and on the one size bikini sets, I went for my larger dress size and all fitted pretty well. Prices are good and some sale prices now are too good!

          350005894_1_CO_1_3230022

          Tie back printed two-piece, £29

          350005888_1_CO_1_3230029

          Tankini two piece, £29

          350003151_1_CO_1_3234424

          Striped clip back bra top, now £9.20!

          350003086_1_CO_2_3234270

          Choice of bottoms, turn down style, £7.60

          350003031_1_CO_1_3234207

          Spot bikini top now £9.20, bottoms, £7.60

          I was really surprised with what Next had to offer. There are far more options on-line than in store, and easy to order and pick up from your local and return if needed. They also offer various style options on one theme, so simple to find the shapes you like best. I would have ordered more to try, but a few styles had a waiting time, so check this when you order.

          421-118s

          Blue Missoni inspired bra top, £16 and pretty briefs, £14

          148-674s2

          So pretty ditsy print bra top, £28 and briefs, £16

          733-115s

          Tropical seamed cupped top, £12-18 and briefs, £12-14

          For a cover up, I love the look of floaty kaftans on others, but sometimes they can feel bit over dramatic for me. I love the simplicity of a button through over sized shirt and I found one in Zara, perfect for holidays.

          IMG_5472

          My over sized shirt – beach cover up. Similar Zara shirt here.

          With fair skin, I found the darker prints too heavy for me, even though the fit was good but I really like the nautical and prints. So from not having any great bikini options, I now have three!

          Don’t put it off any longer, I have found it wasn’t as painful as I thought.

          Kx

          Share
          Kirstie
          Moving through my forties I've gained confidence to believe in 'style over trends' - quality wins (most of the time) and not to take it all too seriously. A great jacket is always my motto, and I like to play about with old and new and mix in some craft ideas too. I work with lovely clients who want a concise wardrobe or a unique outfit for a special occasion. I hope to inspire you.

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          4 Comments

          1. akjt@btinternet.com' Andy says:
            June 23, 2016 at 2:18 pm

            Nice choice of photos.

            Reply
            • Kirstie says:
              June 24, 2016 at 8:18 pm

              Thanks, glad you approve x

              Reply
          2. elainecatterall@btinternet.com' Elaine says:
            June 23, 2016 at 6:33 pm

            Any advice on one piece swim suits. Bikinis are no go for me…

            Reply
            • Kirstie says:
              June 24, 2016 at 8:49 pm

              Hi Elaine, yes I didn’t cover one pieces as they are a whole new subject but sticking with La Redoute (as bikinis surprisingly good) these look really good.
              this blue and pink print, pretty print, both now £13 and paisley tile print, now £23.40. All have removable straps for a smooth tan! I would order 2 sizes, one larger as I found they came a little small. Easy to return the unwanted too. Hope this helps for starters. Kirstie x

              Reply

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