ShopCrazy

Heading for the beach? Here are 7 things to pack to turn your look from Beach Bum to Beach Babe!

1. The perfect swimsuit. (See archives: “Sizzlin’ Swimwear” for more styles).

• Start with a cut you are comfortable with. You will not be able to strut your stuff if you cannot move in your suit. Check for “danger zones” like see-through fabric (especially when wet), moveable triangle tops that don’t stay in place, etc.
  Color and pattern are also important. Although white is hot, it doesn’t look good on pale skin. Black and brown are always safe, and go with anything. Choose a pattern or print that complements your body type.
• Pack at least 2 pairs of swimsuits. You will need a spare while one is drying. If you plan to sunbathe, it’s best to pack two suits with similar styles, to avoid zigzagging tanlines.
• Care for swimsuits: To help our swimsuit last longer, wash it immediately in cold water after it is exposed to salt or chlorinated water. Use mild liquid detergent soap. Lay them on clean towels to dry.

White halter bikini with brown tie, P875, Freeway.

Reversible floral/striped bikini, P875, Freeway.

Green/brown bikini, P875, Freeway.

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NOTHING BUT WATER. I like going into this shop because it reminds me of beach resorts. They carry swimsuits and other beach essentials all year round, and helped popularize Havaianas in the country. Once upon a time, they sold only locally-designed suits, and even custom-made swimwear. Soon, they started to mix imported labels into their collection. These days, you will find all their swimsuits are imported from the US. The prices may be a bit higher, but loyal clients are willing to pay a little extra for great design, bottoms that don’t ride up, and special details, like underwire and detachable pads. Branches: Galleria, Alabang Town Center, Power Plant, Glorietta, D’Mall Boracay.

1. Brown T maillot, P2,995.

Looks dangerously sexy, but actually offers more coverage than a two piece!

2. Green keyhole maillot, P2,690.

One-piece suits double as a top for cocktails on the beach. Simply slip on a sarong or beach pants.

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Swimsuit season is but a few weeks away, so here’s the lowdown on the hottest swimwear to suit all body types, from some of my favorite bikini stops.

SOLO & FREEWAY. I like their designs because the colors and prints are always young and trendy. The prices are very friendly, too! See their latest swimsuit collections at Solo (Galleria) and Freeway (Galleria, Glorietta, SM Malls, Robinsons Malls), starting mid-February 2006.

Pink/brown striped string bikini, P875.

Aqua/brown floral print bikini top and shorts, P875.

Retro-striped bikini with brown ties, P875.

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