How to Buy a Leather Bikini

Leather has that sensuous and luxurious feel against the skin, but for years, it was impractical to buy leather swimwear for swimming. Today the look and feel of leather is more popular than ever and it's become consumer friendly. Take another look at leather and dive into a new bikini.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for leather swimwear that is washable. It doesn't have to be imitation leather anymore. Genuine leather can be treated so consumers can launder it at home. Care must be taken when laundering, however. Hand wash with no detergent, rinse and lay it flat to dry. Do not ring the water from the suit.

2. Understand that most leather swimwear is non-refundable. Although some companies will allow the suit to be exchanged, most have strict return requirements and some have restocking fees. Be sure to thoroughly check their policies before purchasing leather swimwear.

3. Take your measurements with the help of a friend or have them taken by a professional seamstress. This ensures that you can look at the sizing chart and know exactly what size leather swimwear to order.

4. Shop in brick and mortar stores before you shop online. Often what looks good in a picture can look very different when you try it on. Once you've determined what style works well for you, shopping for leather swimwear online can offer some great bargains.

5. Be a little daring. Since you're going out on a limb to buy a leather bikini, why not choose a style that's a little more risqué than your normal style. What else screams sexy besides a leather bikini.

Tips & Warnings

• If leather swimwear is worn in a chlorinated pool or in an ocean, the suit should be rinsed as quickly as possible. Ocean water may cause color treated leather to bleed.