Bathing Beauties

Memorial Day Weekend has officially kicked off summer, if you live in a part of the world with seasons. If you’re in Southern California, it’s just another excuse for a cook-out. Wether you’re amped to hit the beach or want to curl up and hide in a muumuu, relax. We’ve got the looks that will make you happy -and confident- to be outdoors. Even if you’re not OK with fully submersing yourself in the ocean, or you lack the cajones to rock a bikini, you can look just as fabulous sunning yourself on a chaise lounge or strolling the boardwalk. We’ve found swimsuits and cover-ups that will look stunning doing both, for every type of bathing beauty out there. Check out our list of swimwear and get that sunscreen ready: Summer is officially here.

| Posted: 22 May, 2012 by Rene

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• Nalogen Cowly Cover Up

  

  This dress certainly doesn’t scream “I’m concealing a wet bathing suit!”, which is exactly why we love it. These stripes are fashionable enough to be worn out on the town, and the comfortable draping will keep you feeling cool and looking good.

  $48 at Nordstrom | Buy

  

  | Posted 31 May, 2012 by Rene

• Crossed Band Polka Dot Bikini Top

  

  This twisted bikini top will make your assets seem, um, more plentiful, as will the navy polka dots- which are adorable enough on their own. Wear with or without the halter strap, depending on how daring you are feeling jumping off that diving board.

  $20 at Zara | Buy

  

  | Posted 31 May, 2012 by Rene

• Color-Blocked Board Shorts

  

  Take it from the pool to quick errands in bright neon board shorts. Suitable for swimming or getting to-and-from the beach, these short shorts are quick-drying and and an easy (and inexpensive) alternative to a cover-up.

  $15 at Old Navy | Buy

  

  | Posted 31 May, 2012 by Rene

• Pim + Larkin Printed Swim Tunic

  

  This tunic is chic enough to swim on its own outside of the cover-up category. Pim + Larkin’s printed top could easily be worn belted, over shorts or skinny jeans, or as intended, covering your bathing suit. We love options, and this pretty printed tunic can be worn any which way.

  $59 at Piperlime | Buy

  

  | Posted 31 May, 2012 by Rene

• Magicsuit Tiered Ruffle Tankini

  

  It is called a Magicsuit for a reason- this tankini top is full of support and control, which the tiered ruffles totally hide. Look like you’re all easy-breezy and casual, but feel confident that everything is tucked and slimmed to perfection- and no one else has to know.

  $114 at Macy's | Buy

  (price is for top only)

  

  | Posted 30 May, 2012 by Rene

• Hooded Surplice Romper

  

  As an adult you might have difficulty wearing something called a romper, but hear us out: This is a genious cover-up for beach and pool excursions, and it is, in fact, super cute and far more pulled-together than a sarong or damp beach towel wrapped around your waist. You can’t say no to toss on and go!

  $25 at Forever 21 | Buy

  

  | Posted 30 May, 2012 by Rene

• Becca Etc. By Rebecca Virtue One Piece Halter Swimdress

  

  Play the role of pin-up queen this summer in a super flattering and retro-fabulous swimsuit by Rebecca Virtue. Flaunt your curves while keeping it classy pool-side, and you will be the talk of every cabana.

  $168 at Everything But Water | Buy

  

  | Posted 30 May, 2012 by Rene

• Floral Beach Cascade SwimMini

  

  If you prefer to keep eyes off of your thighs, try on a sweet swim skirt like this flirty number from Lands End. The shirred waistband can cover as much or as little as you like, and the mini skirt length is perfect for looking cute while taking dips at the beach.

  $50 at Lands' End | Buy

  

  | Posted 29 May, 2012 by Rene

• SPF 50 Ruched Guard

  

  The adjustable length of this berry-hued rash guard makes it a summer must for long trips to the beach or out in the sun. SPF 50-coated material will keep you burn-free, covered up and cool as a cucumber.

  $69 at Athleta | Buy

  

  | Posted 29 May, 2012 by Rene

• Grosgrain Stripe Sun Hat

  

  Protect your face and add an air of mystery in one charming sun hat. The neutral grosgrain ribbons will go with any beach or outdoor ensemble and will certainly keep you looking -and feeling- cool.

  $40 at Banana Republic | Buy

  (On sale)

  

  | Posted 29 May, 2012 by Rene

• Leopard Pouch Over Swimsuit

  

  Hide any unwanted bloat under this ingenious suit by ASOS. The gentle draping of the top paired with the fitted bottom keeps you covered and looking svelte, and the all-over leopard print is the best kind of distracting.

  $61 at Asos | Buy

  

  | Posted 29 May, 2012 by Rene

• Tavik La Cava One-Piece Bathing Suit

  

  Sherbert-hued chevron stripes add curves where you want them, and create a lovely pastel optical illusion of a skinny waist. A low back and scoop neck also add a sweet finish.

  $100 at Urban Outfitters | Buy

  

  | Posted 22 May, 2012 by Rene