Swimming In Retrograde

Vintage apparels are transcendental, but they should not be taken solely at face value. There's nothing worse than settling for second-hand clothes only because you're after the retro look. And you have to be extra careful in picking out swimsuits because you never know where, or who, they came from. However, vintage inspired pieces could be your best bet. They're brand new, sanitary, and vibrant remembrances of the past. Just keep a look out for textured fabrics, knitted bikinis, intricate lace patters, unique sarongs, and snug boy shorts. For a better look, let us revisit the not-too-distant past of vintage and their modern day representations, shall we?

The 50's was all about abstract expressionism, duck tail dos, hula hoops, Chevrolets, and above all else, the inimitable Marilyn Monroe. If that golden era was a colossal multi-tiered cake, Norma Jeane was the cherry on top of it. Who could forget her diabolical blowing skirt pose, that sultry open-mouth smile, or her controversial relationships with Joe DiMaggio, Arthur Miller, and JFK. Not only was she a Hollywood icon, her sense of fashion was also the talk of the town even to the present. Resurrect the 1950's glam by taking key pieces and fashion trends from that era to post-modern swimsuit couture. The Viva Panelled Halterneck Front One Piece from Jessika Allen's Jets Collection is truly a rose among the thorns. This rich red 50's style halter neck has a paneled bust rouching that accentuates the upper half of the body. Its double lining construction gives sufficient support without the sometimes bothersome under wire. The tie-back design provides ultra-snug comfort to the wearer and creates a smashing silhouette. At first glance, people might actually confuse you for Marilyn.

If 60-year-old fashion isn't your cup of tea, maybe 50 years back would suit your tastes a lot better. When you think about the 60's, you immediately picture the landing on the moon, Woodstock, the Vietnam war, Martin Luther King, the Kennedys, and the world's first lady of supreme elegance, Jackie O. She was graceful and exquisite wherever she went and America treated her like a queen for it. She looked oddly chic even in a blood stained Chanel suit on the day JFK was assassinated. Who could say the same thing about themselves? Well, some women just never say die. To pull off a swimsuit that exudes nothing but Jackie O appeal, you can try the Asha Couture Halter Top and Turquoise Side Bikini. This hot white pair is truly to die for. The halter top has the classic center ring reminiscent of the 60's era. The low-rise bikini bottom provides full coverage in the back with turquoise embellishments on the sides. Another hot piece from the same collection is the Black Belted Bikini. It has a slick and flattering halter top that gives moderate coverage and maximum support, available in cups A through DD. The full-coverage hipster bottom comes with a two-inch antique brass buckle-and-grommets belt. If you still don't feel like a modern American royalty in it, you can at least pass off as a Bond girl and that isn't so bad. Ooh, the Bond girls, how could I forget. With their untamed swimsuit spunk aside, Jackie Onassis will forever be the epitome of 60's style whether it was premeditated.

The 50's and the 60's seriously rocked but the 70's must be my favorite. Not only was I born in that decade but I remember its psychedelic extravagance like it was just yesterday. You've got the lava lamps, eight track, platform shoes, and the birth of disco. Swimsuits were also quite chintzy even in today's setting. The Andrew Christian Mesh Stripe Low Cut Swimwear is a modern take on the skimpy shorts of the 70's. Another item in his collection worth mentioning is the Truth Tattoo Low Cut Swimwear. Men would wear this low-waist cut while women are left to drool after it. I don't think Richard Nixon could've pulled off this one. I must confess even years later I still get the "Saturday Night Fever" fever with trunks like these.

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