Swimsuit season is here, and there’s no better feeling than finding a style you love and feel great in. However, if you’re over 60, it can seem like all the bathing suit options are made to appeal to women in their teens and 20s. But fashion and swimwear experts agree that there’s no age limit when it comes to being stylish—as long as you find something that works for you, you’ll be all set for summer. That being said, if you’re over 60, there are some things to keep in mind when shopping for swimsuits, from comfort and fit to sun protection. Read on for the best tips from experts.
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Keeping your skin safe from the sun is always important, but even more so when you’re over 60.
As far as swimsuits, “it requires some searching, but beautifully styled rashguard tops that offer sun protection of SPF 50+ are a terrific option,” says Jill Palese, swimwear expert and founder of Call To Action Clothing.
“Look for fabrics with UV ray protection and sunscreen resistance, and try short or long-sleeved swimsuit styles for extra shoulder and arm coverage,” adds Elizabeth Kosich, certified image stylist, founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling, and founder and chief creative director at The EveryBody Wrap.
You can accessorize with a hat or sunglasses to complete the look and protect yourself even further.
Worrying about your swimsuit—whether it’s going to stay put or slide around—takes away from enjoying yourself. This is why Cara Buckland, a fashion expert at Adore Fashion, recommends looking for supportive swimsuits with “underwire, molded cups, and adjustable straps.”
Other options available today include longer-coverage tankinis, swimsuits with built-in tummy control, and swim shorts or skirts.
“You want to feel the fabric and make sure it’s thick and durable,” adds Nina Vargas, a stylist and business strategist for fashion brands. Not only is this more supportive, but it means it’s more likely the suit will hold up after washing and swimming without stretching out.
You want to dress for your body, and while it’s cool to be trendy, wearing a suit that flatters your figure is more important.
“Your body will go through many changes over the year—during the summer our bodies dehydrate and lose some of the puffiness we gain over the winter season, so it’s important to try everything on and make sure it captures how you’d like to look,” advises Buckland.
“Suits that have a style element to them—beads, metal, or cutouts and ties—are playful and elevate any look as well,” says Vargas.
Kosich notes that you can also look for performance fabrics so your suit has the right amount of stretch and really holds its shape.
Swimsuits don’t just have to be for the pool or beach anymore. You can accessorize with other pieces of clothing to amp up your style.
“Shop for matching sets like a sarong or drawstring pants so a swimsuit doubles as a bodysuit for daywear—a smart purchase that’s worth the investment,” says Kosich.
You can also pair a suit with a cover-up. Vargas recommends a good button-down or a floor-length kimono to transition your look from pool to lunch.
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“When swimwear is worn with confidence there is nothing sexier at any age, for men or women,” says Palese. The key is to enjoy yourself and not be self-conscious, as worrying takes away from being in the moment.
If you’re happy with your swimsuit, summer is likely to be more carefree. “When you find a suit you love, if it comes in multiple colors—go for it,” says Vargas. “Get a few in a style you like so you have some staples in your closet that become go-to’s, and getting dressed for the beach never becomes stressful.”
