The Perfect Swimwear for Your Vacation Destination

If you’ve planned a fall or winter vacation to somewhere warm, you’ve probably already thought about what you’re going to take with you. With the summer coming to an end, what are your options for finding a vacation-ready swimsuit (not to mention cover-up) that will look great and fit into the local vibe? Believe it or not, your options are not as limited as you might think.

When it comes to finding swimwear at the end of the summer, your best bet could be the Internet. Why?  Because as stores are phasing out summer inventory to make way for fall and winter clothing and accessories, their Internet sites are not, because it doesn’t take up any precious floor space to offer swim apparel all year long on a website!

Keep in mind that online shopping, with all of its conveniences, does have one main drawback: shipping. Shipping may cost a few extra dollars (not always), but mainly, it takes time. So if you have less than a month before your departure, don’t wait another day to start perusing websites and ordering suits that you like.

Remember, you can always return what doesn’t work. Save the packaging and online receipt and you will have no trouble returning for full credit what doesn’t “suit” you!

If you do want to shop for swimsuits in person, your best option as the summer winds down is larger, national department stores like Macy’s, Nordstrom, Saks, Barneys New York, etc. These stores have so much retail space that they can afford to have some “resort wear” or seasonal items like swim suits all year long. You will be far less likely to find out-of-season items at smaller stores and boutiques, which must devote their space to what is in season and sought after by the majority of their customers.

So now that you know where to look, what do you wear poolside in different destinations?  Again, your go-to source is the Internet. Find out what’s hot by searching online: magazines published in those countries or regions where you will be traveling are great sources of trendy looks.

Here are a few ideas to get you going:

· Miami:

Agent Provocateur Tricja Bikini, Top, $490, Bottoms, $500

As most people know, more is more (is more) in Miami when it comes to bling. Rhinestones, animal prints, jeweled looks and lots of straps and ties are what’s hot.

· Brazil:

Emamò Printed triangle bikini, $340

They’re called “Brazilian waxes” for a reason. Swimwear in Rio and other hot spots in the southern hemisphere are skimpy, as Brazilians believe in flaunting it if you’ve got it.  Basically, the swimsuits in Brazil make what women are wearing in the United States look like giant diapers.  However, contrary to some rumors, Brazilian women do not go topless on the beach.  If you want to fit in with what the locals are wearing, leave very little to the imagination…and don’t forget your waxing appointment before you go.

Another tip: If you want to blend in at the beaches, don’t bring a towel.  Brazilian women bring sarongs, or “cangas” to lay out on, and the men rent chairs to sit on in the sunshine.  And if you really want to fit in, a pair of havaianas should do the trick.

· Las Vegas:

Agent Provocateur, Bottoms $170, Top, $220

Notorious for its lavish day clubs where the party starts shortly after the sun comes up (and continues as long as you want), the swimwear styles in Vegas are chic and sleek, while also eye-catching and swanky.  This sizzling two-piece (above) by Agent Provocateur complements tanned skin, and commands attention.

· Australia:

Clover Canyon
Pool Flower Front-Zip Top, $66, & Swim Bottom, $66

The land down under fairly closely follows American fashion, give or take a few details.  Right now, the hot look in Australia is the high-waisted bikini bottom, just like in the United States. In fact, big bows, polka dots and plenty of material won’t make you look dowdy, but it will make you look like you’re on the cutting edge of fashion.

· Southern California:

Victoria’s Secret Beach Sexy Crop Rashguard, $28

Like most things in California, anything goes. Grab a pair of swim shorts (also called board shorts), a rash guard and a pair of flip-flops and fit right in! Or throw on a strappy bikini or polkadot, high-waisted 50s throwback and you’re all set.

Don’t forget the most important rule when it comes to picking out a swimsuit: how you feel when wearing it. The last thing you want to be doing is fidgeting or feeling self-conscious. Buy what you feel good in and you will look great and have fun!

About our guest author, Patricia:

 Patricia Hogenes is a full time mom who spends time taking her youngest child to his activities or helping him with homework. In her free time, she enjoys writing articles for PoolProducts.com and particularly likes researching new topics.

Bon Voyage!