Thursday, Mar. 25, 2010

Suit yourself for spring and summer

After an arduous winter, breaking out of a wool-covered shell to bare some skin will be a welcomed change. Spring offers a fresh season of poolside barbecues, sporting events, parties and beach opportunities, so finding the perfect swimsuit for an outdoor occasion can be tricky. The trends for this year focus on bright, bold hues, patterns and shapes for both men and women. So, if you're planning on seeking out the sun, pick up a new swimsuit (or, at these prices, two) to usher in the frantic, fun arrival of spring break and promise of warm weather. These suit options will have you covered (or not) for any outdoor event and will take you straight through summer.

If you're always on the go and enjoy utilizing the outdoors for exercise, these suits will provide optimal functionality whether during a game of beach volleyball or swimming laps. Dick's Sporting Goods is a great shopping spot for a full list of fashionable and endurance-worthy swimsuit options.

SPORT

Women can pull on the Speedo Axcel Team Splice Women's in Pink/Black ($68) for looking chic while spiking the volleyball. This one-piece suit creates a sleek silhouette and has added sex appeal thanks to the thin racer back non-slip strap design. Or pick up Nike Women's Color Block Power Tank Swimsuit in Navy ($49.99), which can take you from the beach to the pool. Its streamlined design and full coverage is optimal for swimming laps and will allow the water to glide smoothly over your body for that faster split time.

Men who fancy themselves as Olympian in the pool can channel Michael Phelps and pull on the Speedo Men's Sonic Spliced Endurance Jammer in Black/Blue ($39.99). This tight-to-the-knee design keeps the body in check without looking too European, and is made of a chlorine resistant fabric, so its elasticity will last longer. Or for those guys who love to surf, do it in style with Speedo Men's Tropics Floral E-Board Short in Green ($45). This suit offers a water repellant fabric and a UV50-plus built into the fabric to block harmful rays from the sun. For chillier mornings, throw on the O'Neil Triumph Boardshorts in Black/Light Blue Plaid ($49.50) and O'Neil Skin Graphic Crew ($35.99) for stylish coverage and functionality while hitting the waves.

POOLSIDE PARTIES

For poolside soirées and picnics on the beach, men and women should pick up a suit that's eye-catching and has sex appeal. Look for distinct details, bold colors, and glamorous cuts that are as comfortable as they are chic. At Dillard's department store, a full line of swimsuits are available in a variety of cuts, colors, and designs.

For women looking for a glamorous, retro look to flaunt a trim figure, seek out the Coco Rave "Twister Dot Mix" Ruffle Halter Top in Turquoise/White Polka Dot ($48) and Tie-Side Bottom ($40). Featuring a large white polka dot design on a turquoise background with a pin dot ruffle trim, this suit is as sexy as it is flattering. The Becca "Enchantment" Bandeau Top in Fuchsia ($68) and Tie-Side Hipster Bottom ($54) is also a hot pick. This suit is sure to catch an eye or two thanks to its multi-colored design and butterfly appliqué at the bust. Or, if you're looking for a little more coverage, try on the La Blanca by Rod Beattie "Armed & Glamorous" Shirred Bandeau Swimsuit in Rose ($109). This strapless one-piece will look super glam while you're sipping margaritas poolside and the shirred design gives an added slimming effect.

Men, accent your date and pick a simple bold hued trunk. Try on the Daniel Cremieux "Coral" Solid Cargo Board Shorts in Deep Mint ($45), with its bright green hue and contrasting stitch, these shorts will take you from yacht to poolside barbecue with the simple addition or subtraction of a white polo shirt. Or, for those men who prefer a shorter inseam, try the Hugo Boss Solid Swim Trunks in Turquoise ($59) for added sex appeal.

BEACH CHIC

If you're just hanging out with friends on the beach and enjoying the rays, look for a funky and fun suit that you can accent with accessories. To sport a style that's chic and won't bust your wallet, shop Kohl's, which offers a fun collection for men and women.

For a funky look, pick up the Dana Buchman Zebra Tankini Top ($40) and couple it with the Dana Buchman Scoop Bottoms in Black ($40) or Dana Buchman Solid Skirtini Bottoms in Black ($40). Pair the black and white design with a red beach bag or flip flops for a pop of color. For a cute, versatile look, tie on the Mudd My Madras Plaid Bandeau Bikini Top in Coral ($28) and Mudd My Madras Plaid Scoop Bottoms in Coral ($28). Its puckered plaid design will highlight a good tan or look stylish with a pair of cutoffs.

Men can look put together in the ZeroXposur Gnarly Hibiscus Swim Trunks in White Print ($38). Its light colored print will keep you cool while soaking in the rays. Or be colorful and sport the Sonoma Life + Style Patchwork Plaid & Hibiscus Swim Trunks ($34). This trunk is designed with varying squares of blue-shaded plaid and a hibiscus print. Pair it with a simple white T-shirt and ball cap while taking a walk or playing a round of bocce ball. For a funky vibe, buy the Sonoma Life + Style Palm Tree Plaid Swim Trunks in Ink ($34). The bold hues of the trunks are stylish and will pair well with a tan.

The looks from Dick's Sporting Goods and Dillard's can be found at the Coastal Grand Mall, 2000 Coastal Grand Circle, Myrtle Beach. Preview styles online at www.dickssportinggoods.com and www.dillards.com.

The suits featured at Kohl's can be found at 8646 U.S. 17 Bypass S., Myrtle Beach, or preview online at www.kohls.com.