When shopping for the perfect bikini, we often rely on our friends to give us the proper guidance for the perfect beach look. But what’s better than a girlfriend taking you shopping? A personal stylist. Courtnee Scully, fashion stylist and personal shopper at LALALUXE in Beverly Hills, is our go-to girl when looking for the right swimwear this summer. With the help of Courtnee, we created the perfect shopping guide when buying the right bikini for your body type!
Know Your Body
“It all starts with knowing your strengths and weakness,” Courtnee explains. “Knowing your body type helps (like pear vs. apple shape), but what are you self conscious about and what assets do you want to show off? Want to hide that tummy? Go for a sexy, trendy one-piece. Want to showcase that booty? Boy shorts are perfect for a cheeky look. Little too busty? Try a bandeau with ruffles. Only you know what you want to show off and what you want to conceal.”
Source Stores, Not the Internet
“It’s easy to get carried away with sales online or swimwear that you couldn’t get in your hometown. But pictures of models with the same, lean body type make those suits an unrealistic vision. Plus, every company sizes a bit differently. Trying suits on in a store not only gives you accurate sizing, but you’ll find more brands that match your body type rather than the trendy suit. If you absolutely have to buy your suit from the Internet, make sure you measure yourself, consult the size guide, and try on similar styles in a store to get your accurate size.”
Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New
“That being said,” Courtnee says, “don’t be afraid to try new things. Don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Being trendy doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t work for your body type. I had a friend who refused to try high-waisted bikini bottoms because it seemed awkward. I forced her to try high-waisted bottoms and now she’s obsessed! The way something looks on a hanger or a model will be a lot different on you and it’s worth exploring. And if a certain style isn’t working for you (no matter how many different brands you try), move on to the next style! There’s a perfect swimwear look for every body type out there, you just need to find it!”
Courtnee let us in on some of the latest trends this season. From 70’s throwbacks to lingerie inspired swimwear, these styles include:
-One pieces
-Cut out bikinis
-Bralettes
-High waisted bottoms
-Neoprene and mesh fabrics
-Bohemian prints
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help
“You may not have your own personal shopper and stylist,” Courtnee explains, “but getting some expert help isn’t out of reach. Ask the employee or retail shopper to help find the suit of your dreams or get your measurements. They’re there to help you. Utilize this free service.”
Own Your Size
“Some women are all about trying to squeeze into the smallest size they can. This leads to muffin tops, revealing bottoms, and nip slips. If you’re a size 2 or a size 14, own it! Just because you ‘can’ fit into a size 0, doesn’t mean you should. Make sure you measure your cup size, waist, and hips every time you purchase a new swimsuit since your body is always changing. Having suits in multiple sizes will keep you prepared for any weight loss or gain you may experience. You wear the suit, the suit does not wear you. Which leads me to my next point…”
Be Confident
“Confidence is key,” Courtnee says. “I’ve seen some of the largest women wear the skimpiest bikinis and they rocked it! They looked stunning, not only because it was an amazing bikini, but because they had effortless style. Fashion comes from the brand, style comes from confidence. And I always say, feeling beautiful comes at any size!”
**Courtnee Scully graduated with honors in Merchandise Product Development. Upon graduation, she was hired as a fashion stylist and personal stylist with LALALUXE in 2015. For more information about her work, visit lalaluxe.com
Tags: bikini cleanse, bikini fashion, bikini guide, bikini ready, fashion tips, kini, weight loss Posted by