SWIMWEAR IS THE NEW READY-TO-WEAR

Beach chic is no longer confined to a pool party...as designers mix swim pieces and party separates with great gusto.

- MANISH MISHRA

If you thought swimwear was meant for just relaxing by the pool, then you’ve got it wrong. Resort design mavens or should we call them swimwear mixologists?) have diversified the beachwear category into versatile and utilitarian pieces and separates that work effortlessly at a brunch, a sundowner, or pre-wedding cocktails. Over the last couple of seasons, with more and more people travelling to resort getaways and tropical locales, the beach-glam lexicon has inculcated new elements from daywear and evening spaces. For example, a bralette or a crochet gilet complements a pair of pants, or a pool-sari looks more sensual when teamed with a bikini or a bandeau top. Labels like Shivan Narresh, Flawed By Shaleen, Flirtatious, and EL Swimwear, among others, have showcased hand-painted maillots cross-cut with cut-out detailing) and plunge neck, one-piece swimsuits that can be styled with denim or paperbag shorts. A sultry halter top with edgy cut-outs—teamed with a draped, printed scarf-skirt—works well for brunch, and even for when the cocktails are calling. There’s really no end to this mash up of swimwear pieces and casual-chic essentials, as one could create multiple looks for myriad settings.

Swimwear designer Esha Lal, in her vast repertoire of beach offerings, has incorporated high-cut bottoms as well as a pair of high-waist full coverage bottoms, so her customers can play stylist and indulge in the endless pleasures of mixing and matching. We also offer strappy, reversible triangle bikinis for those who like both prints and solids. Some of our bikini tops have plunge necklines and provide great bust support with underwire or removable cups, making them more size-inclusive and comfortable,” she says.