Whether you’re dreaming of a sunny poolside escape or resolve to make a splash with your 2020 fitness plan, suit up!
Regardless of your goals, Michelle Neilson wants to help you find a swimsuit that looks good and lasts.
The owner of Curvy Fashions in Duncan has plenty of knowledge to get you ready. Start by asking yourself these four questions, then stop by the store for more expert advice!
1. What are you planning to do?
“Everyone says their suit’s for swimming,” Neilson says, “But there’s a big difference between what you need for drinking margaritas poolside and what you need for Aquafit!”
Polyester holds up better in chlorine, while UPF clothing looks great in and out of the water.
“If you’re paddle boarding, kayaking, or even taking a walk on the beach, UPF shirts and pants are great additions. If you’re like me and had skin cancer, you know how important it is to stay covered up,” Neilson says.
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2. What else do you need?
From flip-flops and aqua shoes to sun hats and cover-ups, you might need a lot more than a swimsuit. Curvy Fashions is a one-stop shop.
Most laundry soaps contain harsh chemicals that break down swim fabrics and cause them to fade and lose shape, but Curvy Fashions has some Canadian-made swimwear soap that’s chemical-free and biodegradable.
“It’s a good idea to get chlorine, sunscreen, and salt out of your suits as soon as possible, to preserve the fabric,” Neilson says.
3. When was the last time you tried your suit on?
No swimsuit lasts forever, so don’t assume you can just toss it in your suitcase.
“We’ve all seen a swimsuit bum that’s a little more see-through than it should be!” Neilson says.
If you’re travelling somewhere tropical you might be lucky enough to find a gift shop swimsuit that fits, but as Neilson says, “Not all swimwear is built equal.”
A friend of Neilson’s bought three swimsuits online to test the theory. When the suits arrived they looked just like their pictures, but all three had problems. One ripped a seam when she pulled it on, one stretched in the water and never bounced back, and the third was see-through when wet because it didn’t have a lining.
“Don’t just take our word for it though – try things on. It comes down to what you’re comfortable spending and what you feel comfortable wearing. We’re not here to judge.”
4. How do you feel?
Curvy Fashions carries a variety of styles for full bust support, tummy shaping, and fun cuts for all occasions. Trust the experienced staff to suggest different styles and keep trying until you find a suit that makes you feel fabulous.
“Sometimes a suit doesn’t have hanger-appeal but is the most flattering suit on the wall. Sometimes it’s what you can’t see that makes it great!”
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