JANTZEN CLASSIC ONE PIECE - 2010No matter what you do for a living, wearing a swimsuit for the first time each season can make you feel like you're center stage on the catwalk! All eyes at the pool, on the beach, or on your rooftop terrace (that setting feels even more invasive for some reason) can feel like they are immediately drawn to your least desirable areas. That is why waiting for the last minute to buy a suit for the season is a mistake. Putting so much pressure on for the "perfect" suit for the coming weekend can be way to stressful. For this reason, when it comes to swim wear I advocate avoiding the designer price points. I know I've spent 15 years having my bread buttered by the biggest names in fashion, but even I think it is a sour investment for most to splurge on swim wear. Of course there are exceptions. 
JANTZEN EXOTIC PRINT TWO PIECE 2010If you are one of the lucky few heading to some amazing hot-spot in a tropical location, then by all means - hit Dolce, Prada, or Bottega. Even then, I say draw the line at $500. For an everyday suit - draw the line at $150 - and you can find a great suit for $50-$75.
For those who want a great suit you can throw in your bag when heading to the Hamptons, Fire Island, Malibu, or Miami - I have several sources that will have you ready to dive- even if you never get wet! When you buy a suit on a budget, the decision to change suits if you realize you chose the wrong style for your body (this year!) won't be too traumatic. Buying swimwear on-line is difficult, but the following companies make it less of a struggle - and once you are used to the fit, they can be a great permanent resource.
JANTZEN DIVING GIRL CIRCA 1920JANTZEN is an American original. The company was one of the first devoted to creating sexy swimwear for women who wanted to make a statement while hitting the beach. Founded in 1910 - the icon was one of the most recognized logos in the 20's, 30's, & 40's. Celebrity endorsements began in the 1920's when American Olympians Johnny Weismuiller and Duke Kahanamoku wore the famous Jantzen one piece suit. 
THE DUKE & JOHNNY WEISMULLER IN JANTZEN AT THE 1924 OLYMPICS The 100% virgin wool suit they made world-famous was the original suit knitted on machines used to make sweaters. Ad campaigns at the time boasted "gives that wonderful fit". 100 years later the company is still going strong and available coast to coast in department or specialty stores including Macy's & Everything But Water. Both have stores nationwide and you can shop on-line! JANTZEN also has an excellent website. The classic one piece suits have a definite VARGA girl vibe. Think sexy, but appropriate. The company timeline reads like an education in American pop culture. There is a brilliant fit-guide for swimsuits that can guide you to the bikini shape of your dreams - or his! Click - BIKINI to be schooled in Swimsuits for your body type!
AMERICAN APPAREL GOLD BIKINIAMERICAN APPAREL is an L.A. based company that is all American to the core. Founded by an eccentric character - Mr. DovCharney - the company is proud to be 100% made in America. The vertical production operations in downtown L.A. is at the heart of the company's desire to restore the pride that was associated with the "Made in the U.S.A." slogan around the world for decades. The 
AMERICAN APPAREL FAUX DENIM ONE PIECEcompany made its name on classic pieces offered in a rainbow of colors. The t-shirts and socks are favorite staples for a broad customer base, from college students to business executives. Everyone loves the 80's vibe in the stores and the casual attitude of the staff. These suits give you straight up sex appeal - as the approach is less subtle at AA. The website also makes shopping for swim SO easy. 
AMERICAN APPAREL TERRY CLOTH ROBE You can sort the collection by fabric, color, size, etc. Another great aspect to American Apparel is the price point. Expect to pay about $50 for a great suit. You can choose bikini pieces separately to create you own look. Supporting made in America is also a super way to pay tribute to our great country this 4th of July!
GOTTEX is another name synonymous with lycra and the one piece bathing suit! A department store staple, there are sure to be great deals on Gottex suits in stores now. Click BERGDORF GOODMAN or LORD & TAYLOR to shop for GOTTEX. Most importantly, find a suit that looks great on you - and won't break your budget. After all, you should be able to buy a glass of champagne at the end of a long beach day - or at least a summer cocktail! Happy SUMMER!