About Plus Size Swimwear
Most women sizes 14 and above dread shopping for a plus-sized swimsuit. In fact, many plus-sized women avoid any summer beach and pool activities because their department store bathing suit selection is often filled with ill-fitting fabrics and drab-colored beachwear. Thanks to the development of more well-constructed and glamorous swimwear options, a bevy of beautiful swimwear is now available to fit and flatter plus-sized swimsuit shoppers of all shapes and sizes. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Significance
-
According to market research company NPD Group, the women's plus-sized market is one of the fastest growing retail industries. With women sized 14 or more spending 22 billion dollars in sales each year, swimwear manufacturers and designers are creating new designs to satisfy this powerful demographic. In larger department stores, plus size swimwear is available for teen girls in junior miss sizes.
Types
-
There are five distinct types of bathing suits available for plus-sized women: tankinis, skirted swimwear, shortinis, blouson tops and one-piece swimwear. A tankini substitutes the standard bikini top with a tank top. A skirted swimsuit is a one-piece bathing suit with a piece of fabric attached that resembles a short skirt. Shortinis are the distant cousins of tankinis. Rather than pairing a bikini bottom with a tanked top bathing suit, shorts are worn instead. Blouson topped swimwear have large flowing tops attached to the top of one-piece bathing suits. Swimsuits are constructed from Lycra, nylon and polyester blends. Plus size swimsuit prices range from $29.99 to $200 dollars or more.
-
Features
-
When selecting a plus-sized swimsuit there a several illusions and tricks to camouflage problem areas and enhance a woman's best features. Fabric that is ruched and draped across the tummy can reduce belly bulges. Swimsuits that feature criss-crossed design elements will provide additional body contouring and give the illusion of a smaller waist. Deep v-necks can slim a large frame, while halter tops balance hips and draw the eye upwards. Balance large hips and a small bust with a swimsuit that features a colorful printed top and a dark colored skirt or short for the bottom.
Considerations
-
The best time to shop for a plus-sized swimsuit is at the beginning of the season. Select swimwear in May or June when styles, colors and designs are new and store inventory is well stocked and plentiful. To find the best swimsuit for your shape and size, avoid trying on a bathing suit after eating a meal or during your menstrual cycle. Color choice is important when selecting a plus-sized swimsuit. Black, blue and dark brown are slimming to the eye. However, women of all sizes can wear bold colors, stripes and patterns if the fit of the swimsuit is flattering to their respective body types.
Prevention/Solution
-
The perfect plus-sized swimsuit must flatter the wearer, hide problem areas and support an amble bosom. Refrain from selecting suits without support panels in the bust, tummy and rear end. Choose a swimsuit with adequate underwire and cup support for women with large breasts. A bathing suit should retain its shape during swimming, walking and lounging by the pool. Avoid buying any suit in a light fabric that may become too sheer when wet or is too tight or snug around your legs or midsections.
-
Resources
- Photo Credit www.junonia.com