Love picking a new summer wardrobe, hate choosing an itsy, bitsy yellow polka dot bikini. Somewhere between grabbing a swimsuit off the rack and the three way mirror of the dressing room, all lustre is lost. However, I have come to terms with my far from Baywatch bod and this year I vow to conquer the swimsuit. Going prepared is key: Starbucks Venti Americano, a brutally honest sister, and a no-fear, try anything on attitude. For some pre-body baring insight, The Style Spy caught up with local crocheted swimwear designer ANNA KOSTUROVA. Style Spy girls can look to the latest Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue where five of the twelve months showcase models wearing Kosturova designs. Hot.

Any tips for picking the perfect swimsuit?
Think about personality, location, and occasion. If you’re planning on playing beach volleyball or surfing, get something that’s high performance; something with good lycra, good coverage and support. If you are going to a resort to lounge by the pool, then you can get away with something more precious. Fit-wise, you don’t need to cover every inch of your butt. The larger the surface you cover with the fabric, the larger it appears. Less is better, if you can handle it.

Which suit is in your beach bag?
I always wear my Beach Goddess fully sequined, crocheted [bikini], in every color combo. The baby blue version was on the cover of this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. I love anything sparkly and colourful, as I’m a slave to my inner magpie. I also love snorkelling and I find sequins resemble fish scales. I definitely feel more welcome among the fish when I’m dressed appropriately for the visit.

Why design swimwear?
Growing up, I spent lots of time at pools, rivers and lakes. I’m endlessly fascinated with the sea, sea creatures and water in general. All I really want to do is hang out in the water, and for that I need bathing suits. Since I also love fashion, it just makes sense that I’m making bathing suits.

What kind of gal wears your swimwear?
Someone who is comfortable in her own skin and is not afraid of standing out in the crowd. [Someone] who appreciates uniqueness.

Which celeb would you like to suit up?
Scarlett Johansson. Her body is a masterpiece!

P.S.:
I have a full line of silk and crocheted cover ups. Also, many of our most popular styles are available in age-appropriate versions for little girls.

Anna Kosturova swimwear is available at:
In Vancouver at Room 430, Jeweliette, Fine Finds, online at www.annakosturova.com or in our studio, where I can give more personal service (by appointment only).

Heidi Hofstad, The Style Spy
heidi@thestylespy.com

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A spring trend that has carried over from fall, these feminine Ombre pumps from Prada retail for a whopping $490. Luckily for those of us without Blair Waldorf’s trust fund, Joe Fresh has come out with their own take on the colour-bleeding trend with these pumps from their spring line, at only $29 a pop. I love the stacked heel and buckle detail on these Ombre pumps, which to me, look just as expensive as the much pricier pair from Prada. These heels are definitely appropriate for your next job interview but can also be glammed up at night with a mini dress and a sleek trench. You can get the Joe Fresh Ombre pumps at the Real Canadian Superstore nationwide, but make sure to do so before they “fade” away!

Priya Chendke, The Style Spy

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Hitting any makeup apothecary, department store or drugstore in search of some new makeup can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to eyeshadow. We recommend following the K.I.S.S. principle –you know, ‘keep it simple, s****d’. And, not that we don’t think your capable of choosing eyeshadow colors that blend and pop and a coordinating cheek color, but why complicate things? With a fabulous array of beautiful palettes to choose from you’ll be simply stunning this season.

1. Revlon Make A Sheen Lustrous Eyeshadow Trio – This limited edition collection of eyeshadow trios has four gorgeous palettes to choose from! We adore the earthy green color story! Available at London Drugs.

2. Dior Flower Blossom Brightening Palette – This line’s spring collection is blooming beautiful. Use this palette to brighten the complexion and highlight cheeks and eyes. Available at Holt Renfrew.

3. Guerlain’s Ombre Eclat compact in Fleur de Feu – For smoldering eyes and a punch of color. Easy to mix and match and all you’ll need for day and night. Available at Sears

4. Bobbi Brown Refillable Palette – Can you say customize? Finally a palette that is all your own. All 85 of the lines shades can be mixed and matched and popped into the palette. Available at Holt Renfrew.

Nicole Harvie, The Style Spy
nicole@thestylespy.com

Check out Nicole’s “Diary of the Week” coverage for Vancouver in HELLO! Magazine!

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