Swimwear Technology

Over time, perhaps nothing changes more dramatically in life than a woman’s swimsuit preferences. Going from barely-there bikinis in youth to more coverage after kids to maximum coverage after 60 comes with the territory as we age, but it doesn’t mean beauty, style and sophistication must be sacrificed. Modern swimwear brands are catering to every body shape, size and age like never before, which is a win for everyone. As the years progress, swimsuit priorities shift and considerations like material over style, construction over shape and fit over trend reign supreme. The good news is that technology is on your side with new innovations in fabrics, machinery and construction flooding the market. It is a brave new world of swimwear, so consider these 5 tips as guiding principles when reassessing your swimsuit needs:

1. Performance fabrics
   Fashion has been innovating at lightening speed for the past 20+ years, yielding new technical fabrics that are astoundingly comfortable. Look for high performance, super-strech materials with shapewear-level control that lift, contour and sculpt. These lightweight compression fabrics are surprisingly non-binding and bulk-free. Be sure it has 4-way stretch technology for maximum stretch, recovery and engineering that holds shape longer. Look for one-piece corset-style swimsuits with lace cinches that contour, sculpt and smooth your shape for a high-style, sophisticated and über flattering look.

2. Built-ins
   Support is a girl’s best friend after a certain age, and the swimwear industry has finally figured it out. Look for thoughtfully engineered built-ins like underwires, shelf bras and adjustable straps that lift, hold and flatter. Try swimsuit styles with extra coverage like tankini tops that are either form-fitting or loose, with matching swim skirt or short bottoms.

3. Double layer construction
   For 36% of women, tummy control is a swimsuit’s most important feature. Look for swimsuits with double layer construction with two panels of fabric — not including the liner — that slim and hold without constricting. The result is not only hip-minimizing, but a simulated hug of sorts that boosts confidence and emotional security at once.

4. Crinkle material
   Wildly popular in the 1980s, crinkle fabric is making a comeback. The all-over smocked, turbo-stretch material extends from here to Timbuktu, allowing for one-size-fits-all swimsuit styles that work miracles. The fabric is super-stretch, super comfy and super fun, plus it forms to all shapes and sizes with ease and grace. And it’s thick but not bulky, offering sufficient coverage without being overly heavy, cumbersome or hot. Keep it simple with a classic scoop neck one-piece in a universally flattering color like turquoise, coral or watermelon red.

5. Sun Protection
   Since sun sensitivity increases with age, swimsuits with sun protection should definitely be considered. Look for fabrics with UV ray protection and sunscreen resistance, and try short or long-sleeved swimsuit styles for extra shoulder and arm coverage. Shop for matching sets like a sarong or drawstring pants so swimsuit doubles as a bodysuit for daywear — a smart purchase that’s worth the investment!

See BestLifeOnLine.com press feature here.