What's hot in swimwear this summer

Among Charlotte’s most sophisticated shoppers, E Martini at The Morrison shopping center in SouthPark is the place to go for swimsuits and cover-ups. Owner Eileen Martini filled me in on what’s hot for summer 2012.

“Designers are enticing customers with classic one-piece, bikini and tankini styles that have a special twist,” she says. “Look for unique trims, braid, banding, cinching, fringe, stones and subtle touches of hardware.”

Martini recommends swimsuits in Italian Lycra fabrics. “Do not to compromise quality.  Fine fabric and workmanship will guarantee the best fit, color retention and long life of your suit,” she says.

Brilliant colors (lime, corral, orange, fuchsia, emerald, royal blue and purple) are in along with abstract prints, but black is still a classic favorite.

“Two-piece bikini swimsuits are the most sought after with a vast range of shapes, often offered in separates, to customize that perfect fit,” she says. “String triangle tops, banded halters, twist bandeaus, and retro “Marilyn” halters are expertly engineered to flatter the bust.  Coordinating, bottoms range from hot Brazilian cuts, classic scoop, modified boy cuts (low rise), to more modest hipsters and cute skirted bottoms.”

What if you’ve outgrown your bikini body?

“The most slenderizing, flattering silhouette is usually a classic solid color, halter one-piece with pure lines, under-bust seaming and lightly contoured cups,” says Martini.  “For the woman who is trying to conceal a tummy or those pesky little bulges around the waistline, shirred fabric is your best friend.  With respect to the “bum” area, moderate coverage often works best because sometimes too much fabric makes the area look broader.”

And don’t forget the cover-up. Martini says they have become an important fashion statement on their own.

“Flowing caftans and tunics are the rage, but to assure that you look young and modern, I would recommend a shorter (mid-thigh) length in soft, fluid fabrics that fall closer to the body,” she says.  “This cut easily doubles as a short summer dress or a top to be worn with capris shorts or skinny jeans.”