I stumbled upon a fantastic collection of vintage beach photos (called "Before the Bikini") and had so much fun looking through them. Aren't these women glamorous and gorgeous? I just love the look of so many of these vintage bathing suits, and they got me thinking.
You see, I'm over my bikini days. I still have most of my old bikinis, and I do wear them sometimes--like when I'm reading by the pool in my neighborhood. But for swimming, or going to the beach with family and friends, I've discovered the beauty of the one-piece. I don't know if I'll ever really go back.
And it's not because I have anything to hide--at the risk of coming across the wrong way, I'm actually quite happy with my body (hey, if you don't love your body at 25, when will you love it?). I've simply found that one-pieces are so flattering, so feminine, and most importantly, they leave more to the imagination. They're mysterious and retro, and in this "bare it all" culture of ours, I think erring on the side of not baring all is a brave and beautiful choice.
And lest you think that modesty is not sexy--believe me, it is. First of all, look at all of these women from the 30s, 40s, and 50s. They're absolutely stunning! My husband has also told me that he prefers my one-piece suits to my two-piece suits. He thinks they're becoming and feminine. And there are so many interesting and flattering options these days for one-pieces (I think they're coming back into fashion--yes!). A few years ago, my mom and I found a beautiful black, ruched suit with ultra-thin straps. I still love it. A few days ago I added this inexpensive Target suit to my collection. And I'm pining after this lovely (total splurge) one-piece from Anthropologie.
(I know this isn't a one-piece, but it may as well be, right?)
(Images Source)
