|
|
|
| BIKINI BASICS : Accessory Tips |
|
 |
A collection of cute, fun accessories can highlight and jazz up even the most banal of bikinis (although the term “banal bikini” seems somewhat oxymoronic). Once you have your new bikini or tankini, try changing your style a bit with some fun and necessary swimwear accessories. Below is a guide to shopping for and wearing two of the most common swimsuit accessories: the sarong and sunglasses.
Sarong: The sarong is a cover-up favorite among women all over the world. Sarong style looks great on women of all shapes and allows a little more coverage for shy bikini wearers. Its graceful beauty can lend any bikini or swimsuit an inherently feminine style (while serving the added benefit of covering figure flaws). Sarongs are very effective cover-ups for heavy hips, thighs, and legs. A sarong is also one of the most flexible swimsuit accessories in its ability to transfer from beach cover-up to sexy mini-skirt or halter dress.
The trick to wearing a sarong successfully is to get the right wrap. To tie a sarong, hold it horizontally around your hips. Gather approximately three inches of material in each hand and tie a simple square knot at your belly button. To adjust the placement of the sarong on your legs, fold the sarong to the desired length horizontally before tying it.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses serve the dual purpose of protecting the eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) sunrays and of providing a guaranteed Audrey Hepburn/Jackie Onassis sexuality and style. There are quite a few items to consider when buying flattering sunglasses to accompany your bikini. It is important to think about the shape of your face, the color of the lenses, and the amount of UV protection you need. Of course, price is another important consideration. Here are some general tips to keep in mind when shopping for the perfect pair of sunglasses.
- Update your sunglasses about every two years. This will refresh your wardrobe and accommodate any changes in your face from weight loss/gain.
- When trying on sunglasses, check yourself out in a full-length mirror. It is important to match your sunglasses to the proportions of your body and not just your face.
- If you have strong, high cheekbones, do not cover them with your sunglasses. You should always let this wonderfully attractive feature stand out.
- When choosing frames for your sunglasses, keep in mind that frames that turn downward can age your appearance, while frames that turn upward will tend to lift your face.
- If you are unsure about which shape of frames to buy, try oval frames; these frames flatter almost every face shape.
- For the most part, the best frames for your sunglasses will be the opposite of the shape of your face. For example, if you have a long, oblong face shape, you will want to try oval or other horizontal frames to shorten the face and soften its angles.
- Green-gray is the best and most popular color for sunglass lenses. Green-gray lenses filter light evenly and distort color very little, making them the best bet for bright, sunny days on the beach or at the pool.
- Purple, pink, or blue lenses are great for making a fashion statement, but they tend to interfere with color perception. Save them for occasions when you do not need great vision.
- Look for sunglasses that block at least 95% of UVB rays and 60% of UVA rays. Check the label on your sunglasses or ask your optometrist to find out how much protection the lenses offer.
<< Back Next >>
|
|
|
|
|
|
