Beach Bum

Sigh.  I don’t know what it is — maybe that we are having an unusual cold snap here in southern Louisiana — but today I am longing for sun, springtime, warm weather, and sun-kissed skin.  All I can think about is laying on a pristine white sand beach, awesome music playing on my ipod, and lazily glancing up at the blue-green water every now and then as the waves break onto the shore.  Naturally, I’d be just as content laying poolside in a cushy lounge chair at a swanky hotel or resort while being waited on hand and foot.  So, for those reasons I started looking at bathing suits today, which helped to cure my springtime fever but also served to remind me that I need to do some sit ups.

So yes, I know it’s early, but here is my 2009 Spring/Summer swimsuit preview.  Many of these suits won’t ship until mid-March, though you can pre-order most of them.

Juicy Couture Beach Ruffle Bikini

I love this uber sexy and feminine suit by Juicy Couture because it is modern and fun but still has decent coverage.  The ruffled bottom will help to hide problem areas and the top leaves just enough to the imagination.  Definitely one of my favorites.

Ralph Lauren Blue Label “Big Pony” Bikini

I love the simple and classic look of Ralph Lauren Swimwear.  This is an updated take on the triangle-top bikini that can give you a bit more (or less, if you want!) coverage by adjusting the top.  I love side-tie bikinis just because they can adjust to the shape of the woman wearing them and still look fantastic.  The grommets in the bottom for the ties add an awesome detail that really polishes this look for me.

Juicy Couture Smocked Tankini

I love the French Provencial look of this swimsuit.  The smocked top makes it flattering on any sized bustline and the empire waistline has a gorgeous tie detailing that helps to make the transition from fitted top to flowy tankini.  This is a great suit to hide any tummy imperfections and show off great shoulders and arms.

Shape fx Triangle Bikini

I love this one because it has lots of character, it actually might be my favorite of them all.  I think that the criss-cross underneath the top gives it a really fun and different feel and the ruched bottom will be great for hiding any trouble spots.  Naturally I’m drawn to the deep pink color, and I think this might be a really good choice for me.

La Blanca by Rod Beattie Eyelet Cover-Up

Oh, and I know this isn’t a swimsuit but I just loved it so much that I couldn’t resist!  What a great cover-up – perfect for walking to/from the beach/pool in style.  Because really, what fun is a fabulous swimsuit if you throw on an old t-shirt and pair of sweatpants over it?

So tell me, what do you think?  Which ones do you like – do you have tips/advice for me? Do you buy a new swimsuit each year?  What style or styles do you prefer?