Everyone knows that the average gal enjoys searching for a new bikini about as much as she enjoys a root canal. But if your old suit is looking battered, it's time to hit the stores or the websites. When you do, you'll find fresh new styles available in a wide variety of sizes. Here are a few local and national swimsuit resources:
Shop LOCALly
Nani Nalu
3821 W. 50th St., Mpls.
612-922-7946
naninaluswim.com
At this shop, sales associates pull options from the floor and work with each customer one-on-one. Book an appointment, or you may encounter a wait.
Pure Blue Swim
13810 24th Av. N., Suite 430, Plymouth
952-935-6101
pureblueswim.com
Sporty suits are a mainstay for this swim specialty shop. In addition to water polo and lifeguard suits, you'll find modest one-piece options and competition suits in funky prints. Pure Blue also allows you to custom-design a maillot using your own logo or graphic.
Everything But Water
Mall of America, Bloomington
952-858-9563
everythingbutwater.com
This national chain carries a variety of brands, including Natori, Miraclesuit and Trina Turk. It also stocks bra-sized suits and tops to 40DD and plus-sized suits through 3X.
Shop ONLINE
Land's End, landsend.com
Largest selection of specialty sizes including petite, tall, plus and petite plus. They also carry cup sizes to DDD and suits designed for women who have had mastectomies. Bikinis, tankinis, maillots, swim shorts and skirts are available in prints and solids.
Bare Necessities, barenecessities.com
Although this website focuses on lingerie, it also offers supportive swimwear from well-regarded bra companies such as Freya. You'll find one- and two-piece designs with underwire as well as swimwear sized by bra cup and band measurement.
Title Nine, titlenine.com
With swim shorts in a variety of styles and lengths, this sportswear company also stocks bikinis, tankinis and one-piece suits in bold colors and eye-catching prints. Sizing runs a bit small, so be sure to check the size charts.
Sally McGraw