Searching for the perfect suit? Why not pick one that takes a step back in time, but won't ever goes out of style? Suze Yalof Schwartz, executive editor-at-large for Glamour magazine, shares some of the current trends that all the best dressed beach-goers will be wearing.
Perfect polka dots
Polka dots say that you’re fun and feminine, and they’re one of our favorite summer trends. The lace-up sides on Ava Gardner’s two-piece suit take it from classically chic to totally sexy, while the modern version is a perfect example of playful polka dots. The suit has a retro feel, which keeps it from being overly cutesy. Betsey Johnson, everythingbutwater.com, $166; hat: Helen Kaminski; earrings: Henri Bendel; sunglasses: Tom Ford; bag: Rafe; shoes: Stella McCartney
Black maillot
A black swimsuit has always been about looking sexy and svelte, but the difference between Jane Russell’s strapless suit and the updated version is hidden underwire, a flattering high cut leg and spandex technology that shrinks you a full size. In all my years as a fashion editor I’ve never found a swimsuit that looks as good as this one all body types — I even own it in every color! Miraclesuit, figleaves.com, $130; sunglasses: Tom Ford; cuffs: Henri Bendel; bag: Club Monaco; shoes: Tory Burch
Bright two-piece
A shockingly bright two-piece may be the one suit you can’t live without this summer. Whether it’s the perfect orange of Racquel Welch’s swimsuit or the vibrant pink of the Milly suit, nothing says summer like the perfect colorful bikini. We love the bright pink Milly suit for its bright gold rings — hardware on swimsuits is a big trend for summer. Milly, $198; sunglasses: Tom Ford; necklace: Henri Bendel; bracelet Virginia Witbeck; bag: Chanel; shoes: Jimmy Choo
Teeny printed bikiniNot much has changed shape or construction-wise when it comes to the teeny printed bikini. The triangle string bikini shape was so near perfect back when Gloria Hendry wore it in the movie “Live and Let Die” that little about the style has changed. Today’s version has just a smaller cut on the bottom. Missoni Sport, $198; sunglasses: Tom Ford; necklace: Virginia Witbeck; bag: Juicy Couture; shoes: Stella McCartney
Sporty white
The white bikini worn by Ursula Andress in the Bond flick, “Doctor No,” may be the most famous white bikini of all time. In the updated version, RBK Sport has kept the low-slung utility belt, but instead of a holder for your weapon, the belt comes with a special pocket made just for your cell phone. RBK Swim, everythingbutwater.com, $104; sunglasses: Tom Ford; watch: Adidas; bag: Lands’ End; shoes: Hollywould