Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
TIPS
IN A perfect world, we would all be born with bodies like international supermodels Adriana Lima or Tyra Banks, or even Jamaica's own Carla Campbell - or would we?
Women's bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and their beauty or perfection should not be measured by the closeness to the supermodel paradigm, but how best one accentuates what one was born with.
In wearing a bathing suit, the name of the game is to enhance your best features while playing down those you love least. The most basic trick is to wear a suit that complements your body, but there is still more that a girl can do to make herself look and feel good.
Body art tends to deflect attention from your faults to the actual skin adornment. Henna drawings and temporary tattoos can be applied if you have any scars to hide.
Using bronzer on your body, not only makes you look tanned and glowing, but also gives the appearance of a smooth complexion.
Of course, confidence is an accessory that enhances any outfit. So in whatever you wear, hold yourself in high esteem and you will look good.
BEACH NO-NO'S
On occasion, we all see spectacles that make us shake our heads and say, "tsk tsk". The beach and the pool are common areas where strange spectacles always abound, as many cannot seem to avoid the realm of the tasteless and tacky.
In an unofficial poll, the Flair came up with 10 beach pet peeves that have been frequently observed and which warrant excommunication from swimsuit society if ever committed.
It goes without saying that you should remove unsightly genital hair if you plan to don swimwear in public. Also remove hair from your underarm and legs.
Contrary to popular belief, a brassiere and a pair of panties do not qualify as swimwear; neither do a merino and a pair of tights. Likewise, swimsuits do not require undergarments; so don't wear panties with your swimwear.
If you are heavy, the bikini is not your friend. Wear a swimsuit that flatters your figure, such as the tankini or a one-piece that offers full coverage.
Not only are shower caps and scandal bags tacky, but also silly. If you submerge your head your hair will still get wet!
If you are very light-skinned, never go without sunblock, lest you're aiming for the cooked lobster look.
To the men, socks and sneakers will ultimately prove to be quite uncomfortable once the sand starts to settle in. So, consider investing in a pair of sandals.
And when you do expose those toes, be sure that they are in order; otherwise keep your feet buried deep below the sand.
An ill-fitted swimsuit is just as bad as one that is not suited for your body type. Note that, swimsuits should contain all your essentials, not squeeze the life from them. Also, if the swimsuit has lost its stretch, its time for it to be retired.
Thong-style swimsuits are just wrong.
It is natural to enjoy looking and feeling beautiful, but the beach is not the place to wear heavy makeup, and elaborate hairstyles. What would happen if you ever got (gasp!) wet?
Use a single bold accessory to complement your bikini. Swimsuit available at Ammars, Village and Mall Plaza, and accessories by Blue, Grosvenor Terrace.
