Find as many photos of the suit you're considering to see how it looks on different body types.Credit:IIXIIST
The job – because it so often feels like work – is made all the worse by mirrors that seem to highlight only the parts of your body you are at war with this week,and the time (oh,the time!) it takes to try on 17 pairs,especially when you have to adjust the straps on. every. single. one.
While the internet has made shopping for many things a breeze,buying a bikini isn't the same as replenishing the yoga leggings you already have in six colours. Still,with some expert advice,you should be able to shop for swimwear online with confidence.
Rebecca Klodinsky,founder of sustainable brand IIXIIST,says it's important to ask the customer service team – more commonly via that little chat bot in the bottom corner – about size,sustainability (where are the pieces made,who by,and what from?) and texture before committing.
"There's nothing worse than receiving something in the mail that's not what you ordered,"she says.
Matteau is known for its sleek cuts.
If you're going to use size charts,it's best to have a sewing measuring tape handy. Klodinsky suggests measuring where you want the bikini bottoms to sit:there's no point measuring your waist if you want them to sit on the hip,for example.
Another way to reduce risk is to look for a brand that does free sizing,such asYouSwim,which promises its pieces will mould to your shape across seven sizes. And if you're on a budget (or packing light),try a convertible suit,such asLe Buns,whose Hadley set can be worn in multiple ways,including a twisted halter and a one-piece lookalike when paired with its matching bottom.
Finally,a word on swimwear care fromBondi Born founder Dale McCarthy:"Salt,sweat,suncream and chlorine are all very damaging to stretch fabrics ... so it's critical that you rinse your swimwear after each use."Use cold water and if you need more of a wash,use the mildest liquid detergent on a gentle cool cycle.