The Hell Bunny 1950s Cannes Floral Swimsuit

Swimsuit by Hell Bunny available at Tigermilly

To any woman whose self esteem plummets during swimsuit season, I recommend a 1950s style one-piece. They’re flattering, feminine and they mean I actually look forward to going to the beach. Who cares if I can barely doggy paddle and my chest is five shades darker than my face? I feel like a 1950s movie star. And what’s better than feeling like a 1950s movie star? Feeling like an Italian 1950s movie star, of course! Enter Hell Bunny’s exquisite take on vintage swimwear and my happy face.

This has to be one of the most gorgeous swimsuits I’ve found. What really makes this baby stand out is the luscious scarlet and fuchsia floral print. It’s irresistibly sexy and oozes la dolce vita glamour. Don’t forget to paint your lips and nails to match. The black background streamlines your silhouette and the ruching across your tummy helpfully skims over any bulges you gained enjoying life. The thick halterneck straps hoik your tatas right up, giving support and Mediterranean cleavage to even huge, heavy breasts. The Hell Bunny fit on this one-piece is true to size. I’m wearing a 12 and it’s spot on. It’s currently available for £34.49 on the Tigermilly website, which I consider a bargain price for this much poolside confidence.

The Hell Bunny Halter Dress

Dress from Hell Bunny, bag is vintage from Beyond Retro, wedges from New Look

After the success of my circle skirt, I was eager to try more of Hell Bunny’s fabulous but affordable range. I chose this hot red halter but felt nervous about the fit. Whenever I buy a dress from a shop for the first time I suffer pre-try-on jitters. Will I fall prey to any of the super sexy side effects that so often accompany a whopping great pair of jubblies? Side effects such as four boob, mono-boob and strangers shouting “tits” at me in the street.

I was especially worried as I’d ordered an Extra Small. I know, who am I kidding? But I wanted the waist to be as fitted as possible – if I wear a circle dress without a nipped in waist I just look like a big circle. Luckily this dress is cut generously at the bust and your arse can be however big it likes; that is the beauty of a circle dress. If you’re thinking of buying, I’d recommend you choose your size by your waist measurement alone.

I also love the colour. It’s a fab fiery red that makes me feel sassy. Definitely another holiday dress. Oh dear, my suitcase is looking as overstuffed as my bra.

On the subject of my smalls, the award for best supporting artist in this outfit goes to my Panache strapless bra. It has multiway straps, a low cut centre front and goes up to a G cup. It also stayed in place all day with minimal hoiking. This is impressive. Most strapless bras I wear require a hell of a lot of hoiking.

Now please excuse me, I have some twirling to do.

A Bargain 50s Circle Skirt

Top from Collectif, skirt from Hell Bunny, shoes from New Look, bag from River Island

A 1950s circle skirt is one of those vintage essentials for summertime dressing. Ideal holidaywear, it’s comfortable in warm weather and instantly puts you in the mood for a picnic.

This one is from rockabilly brand, Hell Bunny, and only cost £27.50. Hell Bunny goes up to a size 20, so plus size babes can enjoy the retro glamour too. They sell a matching cropped bodice for those who are particularly proud of their stomachs, like this lady.

As I’m way too bulgey for a bralet, I wear mine with a gypsy top of standard length. I keep it figure-skimming to avoid looking like a Cath Kidston tent. Although if I was to look like a tent, a nice floral Cath dome would be my choice.

To make sure the waistband of your skirt is as fitted as possible, check the size guide before you buy. Too loose and you’ll lose that lovely 50s princessy silhouette. If you really want to feel like you live in a fairytale, get a frothy petticoat to wear underneath.

Here are some other Hell Bunny beauties I’ve got my greedy eye on. Warning, these skirts may cause spontaneous twirling.

red hibiscus, yellow hibiscus, polka dot