Everything old is new and hot again. Fifty is the new thirty. High-waisted flare jeans straight out of the 1970s are spring’s must-have fashion item. Charlie Sheen is once again the most talked-about tabloid mess in Hollywood. But perhaps most surprising of all is this season’s strong resurgence of retro swimwear. Barely-there bikinis are so five years ago; this summer, nothing’s sexier than an Esther Williams–inspired suit, preferably in a fun and colorful print. Even swim caps, once the nerdiest thing you could find poolside other than nose clips, are making a splashy and stylish comeback. If you still think one-pieces and swim caps are for grandmas and the fashion-challenged, you’re clearly not living in the past.

Find the Right Swimsuit for Your Figure
RSVP Rescue: What to Wear to Summer Parties


Natalie One-Piece

Polka dots have never looked as sultry as they do against the background of this chic black suit. The halter top and boy-shorts bottom go perfectly with huge black sunglasses, a fabulous sun hat, and a worshipping pool boy on hand.


Salt and Pepper Flowered Swim Cap

Speedo? Snore. Trade the standard neon latex swim cap for a throwback to the bathing beauties of the 1950s and 60s. The black and white combination adds a modern, sleek touch to the whimsical style.


Robin Piccone Bandini and Bikini Bottoms

The sweetheart neckline and delicate pleats along the bust turn what mightve been a humdrum bathing suit into pure sophistication. This is a good option for women who want to hide their tummies but dont want to hide the rest of their assets in the process.


Tri-Color Petal and Raffia Straw Swim Cap

If your swimsuit is subtly sexy, why not pair it with an over-the-top swim cap from the 1950s? The raffia straw provides a striking contrast to the bright pinks and orange. Note: this vintage piece works best with a bright, over-the-top personality.


Ebony Garden One-Piece

Doesnt this just scream old-school Hollywood glamour? The black seams running across the front of the suit give structure to the playful petal motif, creating that oh-so-coveted hourglass shape.


White Floral Embossed Swim Cap

Clearly, retro swimwear is all about flower power. This cap nods at that trend while incorporating another surprising, yet successful, source of inspiration: ancient Greek and Roman sculpture. Couldnt you see the Venus de Milo herself rocking this style?


Bathing Beauty One-Piece in Cherry Pie

Red-and-white gingham, arguably the happiest print in existence, is taken to a whole new level in swimsuit form. When its combined with thick halter straps, a plunging neckline, and boy-cut bottoms that make legs look sky-high, the effect is delightfully innocent and flirtatious all at once.


Fashy Tiger Print Swim Cap

Theres nothing innocent or subtle in the least about this ferocious swim cap. Paired with a sexy gold lamé or midnight-black swimsuit, it just might bring out your most animalistic desires. Now wheres that worshipping pool boy?


Layer Cake Tankini

Petite ladies, rejoice—Betsey Johnson has you covered. The padded top and ruffled layers of this tankini create curves where they might be lacking. And just like other BJ styles, its vibrant colors and flirty design are sure to turn some heads at your next beach party.

Similar Posts:

Share