Fashion,  Reviews

Should I pack a Swimsuit or Bikini?

With last week being so sunny, my thoughts have well and truly turned to summer! I couldn’t help but start planning our holidays! Last year we spent our holidays in France and Spain, and the holiday was split between beach and pool. Most days we spent the day at the beach, then ended up having a dip in the pool before dinner. Essentially our holiday packing included plenty of good beach and swimwear!

Swimsuit or a Bikini?

Every year I try to pack practical swimwear for use in the pool and a couple of bikinis to wear at the beach. I used to worry, should I wear a swimsuit or a bikini? But now, I know I need both! I choose both as I like having the versatility of different options to wear. Also, I don’t want to contaminate the pool with sand from the beach!

This year, I’ve already been shopping for swimwear thanks to UK Swimwear. I’ve spent quite a lot of time looking at sports bikinis. I love the Gottex Profile Sport collection, my favourite the Cosmos Bikini would be great for aqua-aerobics too! But I settled on a Speedo Swimsuit, in a brightly coloured pattern which screams summer fun!

The LavaFlow Digital Powerback is a high cut swim suit made in a lightweight fabric which is quick drying. The fit is great, although I must admit it fits a little smaller, so if you’re between sizes I’d go up a size. I love the fit of the suit, the high leg is quite flattering on my thighs and it really does look great on! I will be wearing this to while I swim for fitness not just on holiday!

Why spend on a bikini?

When I was younger I used to gasp at the cost of a bikini, and always look for a cheaper alternative. The problem was the inevitably the bikinis were unlined, un-supportive, and not made to do anymore than look good poolside. Invest in a good, well fitting bikini and you will be comfortable, supported and able to swim in it too! I’m a huge fan of Moontide bikinis, they’ve been my go to brand for many years. They seem to fit my figure well, especially on the bottom! I opted for the Moontide Cruise Versailles Braided Bandeau Bikini as the pattern is striking, and I love a bandeau style!

The bikini top can be worn strapless, or as a halter neck. If you have children who love to cling onto you while you swim, that halter neck strap is essential! The bikini top is comfortable, and generously sized. I think the pattern is so pretty, and it goes well with all my accessories!

So, I’ll be packing both swimsuits and bikinis this summer! I think they are both essential as part of my holiday wardrobe. Do you prefer bikinis or swimsuits?