Thursday, March 19, 2009

Fashion Trends for Tiny Micro Bikini Swimsuits


The bikini was invented by Louis Reard and Jacques Heim, in Paris in 1946. Even so, due to its skimpiness, barely anyone had the guts to wear a tiny micro bikinis during the late 1950s, when actress Brigitte Bardot created a splash by wearing a bikini in the film, 'And God Created Woman.' The bikini revolution later became a passion, and even got its own song: 'Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini.'

Coming back to the present, tiny micro bikinis have become simple in character. Bikini bottoms are offering more coverage than in the past without giving up on their sex appeal. Last season witnessed direct, top-line bikini bottoms. Amazingly, there were barely any deep-V bikini bottoms, thongs or G-strings in sight. With more coverage in shape, fashion houses are predicting that the 'skirtini' is going to be the next big thing in the swimsuit industry.

Tiny micro bikinis come in a variety of styles, the most popular being 'Tankini' (a longer top that leaves only a small portion of the stomach exposed), 'Bandini' (a bikini with a bandeau top), 'Camikini' (similar to the tankini except the top looks like a camisole), and 'Boy Legs' (the bottom is longer and resembles short shorts). The classic halter-top, however, is still in vogue although the 'Bandini' was the hippest bikini style last season, with almost every swimwear label producing its own take on it. For the ties that bind, sashes, rather than spaghetti strings, were in demand.

For those on the heavier side, sarongs continue to be a flattering way to cover up the extra pounds, although board shorts are a sporty alternative.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Update Your Wardrobe With This Five Women Fashion Trends



The superb way to usher in a new women fashion season is with wardrobe and accessories that are feminine, up to date and outrageously wearable.

This season, women's fashion differs dramatically from years past. For a start, the palette is softer.

"The colors are more subdued with very natural embellishments," said Laura McDowell, T.J. Maxx fashion spokesperson.

White is distinctly a favorite on fashion style, with neutrals a close next. When combined with color, the look is softer and very concurrent. Try navy with white (for the ever-favourite nautical look), yellow, chocolate brown and oatmeal as complementary color tones. Graphic black and white combos look extremely fresh on the latest fashion trends..

Perhaps the biggest options are spring's line up of pants-they run the range from cropped, wide gauchos to Bermuda shorts/skimmers. Also look for slim capris, long, slouchy trousers and high-waisted sailor pants. Feminine blouses are the standard accompaniment: Select a billowing, Victorian-style ruffled blouse, or the classic, always-in-style button down. The little black dress has been replaced by "the little white dress," with light, feminine detailing. Jackets are back. Watch for cropped, tailor-made jackets, as well as military-inspired styles: very tailored with high necks. Today's skirts are longer and feminine: tulip shapes, bubble skirts and multitiered versions.

And as a fashion update, here's no need to carry a tote or even a briefcase this season. Handbags are big enough to hold just about anything. Notice for cross-body handles and extra-large satchels.

"Oversized is clearly in, but do consider your body shape and size," advises McDowell.

Belts are also getting wider. Shoes are chunky with high heels, platform, espadrilles, peep toes and wedges. Vibrant turquoise, coral and amber jewelry add a healthy dose of color; multi-strand necklaces-the longer the better-are bold yet sophisticated. Five easy ways to update your wardrobe are:

1. Something, anything white

2. A soft romantic skirt

3. At least one pair of cropped pants: gauchos, capris or skimmers

4. A nautical accent: striped shirt, macrame belt or wedge espadrilles

5. A great big handbag in supple Italian leather or summery straw