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.

My Favourite Vintage Style Swimsuits This Summer

My most popular post ever was the Vintage Style Swimsuit Special. I’m obsessed with gorgeous retro swimwear and apparently so are you, so here are my latest objects of aquatic lust for you to drool over/pose in.

Because red satin and fake diamonds are always appropriate

Marilyn swimsuit by Pin Up Girl Clothing, also available in plus size, maternity and at Top Vintage

Always accessorize your swimsuit with a cocktail and your cocktail with an umbrella

South Pacific swimsuit by Seaspray available at Figleaves

The sexiest Minnie Mouse outfit ever

Marilyn swimdress from Deadly Is The Female

Bombshell style, bargain price

Pink swimsuit from Asda

Don’t just go on holiday, look like one

Lazy Summer bikini by Playful Promises

This would be killer with a tan

 

Tankini from Mama Maria

And finally, the Little Black Dress of Swimsuits

1950s Sarong Swimsuit by What Katie Did

The Vintage Style Swimsuit Special

When I lived in Sydney I built up quite the collection of vintage style swimwear.

A 1950s bathing suit is the beach equivalent of a wiggle dress. An outfit in itself, it’s flattering and feminine, especially on women with curves. I love ones with halter necklines for complete cleavage control – it’s hard to pull off seaside chic when one boob is making a break for freedom.

For the journey to my sunbaking spot I just pull on a pair of Tara Starlet high-waisted shorts, a floral headscarf and some giant sunglasses to complete the fifties vibe.

I do own a couple of bikinis bought in moments of extreme optimism, but I always go back to my one-pieces. Who wants to be suffering midriff-related anxiety when they’re trying to relax on holiday?

If you’re looking for the genuine article I recommend Glamour Surf or Etsy. Most of the vintage originals are expensive but they are so gorgeous they could be straight out of a Hollywood costume vault. I’m currently lusting after these beauties in dark pink, lilac and turquoise.If the thought of wearing someone else’s delicates makes you want to take a shower, go for a reproduction swimsuit instead. I love the Esther Williams brand, named after the glamorously splashy 1950s movie star swimmer. Here she is doing her leg exercises.My cherry-print halter in the first picture is from their range. They also do florals, gingham and block colours in regular and plus sizes. You can browse their collection here.

Another tried, tested and adored range is Seafolly. My black polka dot and pink floral numbers are by this Aussie brand and I’m always impressed and relieved by their fit and support, as well as their beautiful retro designs. This season I’ve got my goggles on their red halter (called The Harlow) and navy floral costumes. Others making my wish list are these two in cream with black trim and green floral print (The Monroe), both from the charming UK webshop, Samantha Sage.Now if only I can stop spending all my money on aspirational swimwear, I might be able to afford a holiday to wear it on.

Happy sun-posing!