Retro-Inspired Bathing-Suits

I've got summer beaches on the mind, and I'm really loving that retro-inspired bathing suits are in fashion right now. Even though they feel more modest to wear than a bikini, I find these styles to be far more alluring than skimpy bikinis. I think it's because the lines really flatter and draw attention to a woman's curves.

However, because they're so seductive, the color and pattern choices are important -- pick a sexy pattern on this femme fatal shape, and the suit ends up looking like a costume from film noir. This one from Dolce & Gabbana is absolutely perfect -- the feminine colors, the cut -- it's like wearing a field of lily of the valleys. But at $550, the price is very high, so continue reading (below) for more affordable options...

Dolce & Gabbana on Net-a-Porter

images from Garnet Hill & Zappos

Feminine colors are beautiful in this cut.

images from Nancy Meyer & Charlotte Russe

Solid colors are a retro-nod.

images from Lands End & Etsy

High-waist bikini bottoms are my favorite of the current retro styles. Don't they remind you of Gidget?

The prices for these suits range from $25 to over $100. I'm always conflicted about spending a good deal of money on a swimsuit, but every time I've gone for a cheap suit, I've been disappointed in the way it fits and stays in place. I've come to think of swimsuits like dresses, since like a dress, they are an entire outfit at the beach. Paying about what I consider appropriate for a daytime dress seems to be fair: Even though it's so much less fabric, one is really paying for the cut and quality.

I'm so looking forward to jumping in the ocean!