At first thought, the one-piece swimsuit may seem simple and bland, yet, it is anything but. Today, this once deemed ho-hum ordinary and basic one piece is more vogue than ever before.
From the classic monochrome bold statement colors to the whimsical playful patterns and tropical prints, the one-piece swimsuit has an array of styles to suit many tastes. So, don’t assume because it’s merely a one piece it will be a simple cover up for pool side leisure wear…..and vice versa with the two piece.
…..and the good news
Today, we have many figure-shaping swimsuits that are specifically designed to lift and tuck those areas we all have.
Nevertheless, the overall quality of fabric used in swim wear has drastically improved over the years. Personally, I am a Lyrica fan. So, the difficulty for me will be in choosing only one….ok, maybe two.
Swimsuit fabrics
The key is choosing good quality swimwear made with quality fabrics. Choose quality swimwear that will maintain its shape and is made from polyester or nylon (polyamide) mixed with spandex. Here is a brief summary of common fabrics used in todays swimwear.
- Polyester (usually blended with Lyrica)
This is the only fabric that can give SPF protection. Polyesters are chlorine resistant to prevent color fading and tend to hold it’s shape. It is also snag resistant which will help if you accidentally sit on a ruff surface. The downside of polyester: it offers little stretch when we need it and it can be less comfortable due to the thickness of the fabric. Swimsuits made from polyester blends are usually used for competitive swimsuits due to its chlorine and UV resistance.
- Nylon:
Nylon is the gold standard for swimsuits. It is also an alternative to polyester. Nylon is lightweight and can give a smooth fit because of its elasticity. Like polyester, it is also abrasion resistant. However, it is not chlorine resistant and does not maintain its shape like polyester does.
- Econyl
Econyl is the newest environmental friendly nylon made from pre-consumer and post-consumer products.
- Polyamide (a nylon) and Lyrica
Think of polyamide as a fancy term for a nylon blend. Polyamide is the new and improved version of nylon. Polyamide is sturdier, more chloriene resistant and longer lasting than nylon. The typical woman’s swimsuit is made of 80% nylon and 20% Lycra or spandex.
- Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)
PBT is a synthetic plastic polyester fiber that is usually combined with regular polyester. PBT has a natural stretch factor similar to Lycra but not a stretchy. It is considered the most durable of fabrics for swimsuits. PBT will not fade its color and can offer great SPF protection. It is Chlorine resistant, snag resistant, lightweight, and fast drying.
Swimsuit Lining
Never seen and only felt, the lining in the swimsuit plays and important role as the quality of the lining will determine how well the swimsuit will retain its shape. A good quality swimsuit lining is made of 100% nylon with a 4 way stretch.
Swimsuit Lagniappe
Spandex, Elastase, and Lyrica are all synthetic fibers known for its durability, strength, and elasticity.
In the United States, LYCRA® is a trademark brand name that consists of synthetic elastic spandex fibers. Spandex and Lyrica are interchangeable terms. In Europe, Spandex is also referred to as “elastane”. Overtime, spandex, elastase, and Lyrica will eventually lose its elasticity and color.
In general, a swimsuit made with 80% Nylon and 20% Lycra, spandex, or elastase will have more stretch than a swimsuit made with 90% Nylon and 10% Lycra, spandex, or elastase.
The Right Fit
The key is to always shop for the body you have now, not the one you strive for. Learn which swimwear brands, styles, colors, and patterns flatter your body. Wear what feels comfortable on you and makes you feel confident. Then just go with it.
Yes, it’s autumn here in the deep south and here I am relaxing in the sun with a book in hand. I can still hear summer calling in September….and it’s so cathartic.
JC XOXO
Images: Analise Benevides, Christopher Campbell, Ivan Dodig