Pick the Perfect Bathing Suit

Shopping for new swimwear is downright intimidating. How to pick the right bathing suit is one of life’s most vexing dilemmas. Swimwear designer Shoshanna Gruss of Shoshanna Swimwear is here to help. Whether you want to minimize your midsection or create the illusion of more curves, you can kiss your dressing room woes goodbye and get the best swimsuit-for-your-body!

If you’re top-heavy…
“Look for a suit with great support,” Gruss says. “One of the best styles for this is the halter suit. The Shoshanna Swimwear Texture Ring Halter ($96) and Brief ($88) is great because the thick strap helps distribute the weight and the empire piece acts almost as an underwire.” DVF Hearts Roxy 70s Halter Bikini Top ($52) and Lowrider Side Tie Bikini ($44), as well as Tory Burch’s Tofino Halter ($130) and Bottom ($130), are similar halter-style bikinis.

If you have a hourglass shape…
“A one-piece with a wrap or ruching detail will slim your middle,” Gruss says. “This style will highlight the smallest part on your body–your waist–and play up your best assets.” Go for a solid-colored one-piece in a punchy hue like  J. Crew’s Jersey Lomellina Ruched Crossover Tank ($118), Miraclesuit’s Caliente One Piece Swimsuit ($158), and Shoshanna Swimwear’s One-Piece Suit.

If you’re pear-shaped…
“When shopping for bikinis, stick to bottoms with a tie-string so they’re easily adjustable,” Gruss recommends. There are plenty of playfully patterned and figure-flattering options on the market, such as Helen Jon’s Marbella String Bikini Top ($92) and Bottom ($74), Heidi Klein’s Triangle Bikini ($380), and Missoni’s Mare Chevron Knit Bikini ($296).

If you have a boyish figure…
“Look for bright colors, prints, and different textures,” Gruss says. “The Shoshanna Swimwear Ruffle Bandeau ($112) and Brief ($72) is perfect because the ruffles add a feminine touch and the illusion of curves.” You will also love the frills on 2Chillies Swimwear’s Amani Frilled Bandeau ($45) Double Frill Pant ($50), and Lauren Moffatt’s Dropshot Ruffle Bandeau and Bikini ($186).

If you have a long torso…
“A big floral print breaks up a straight silhouette and create curves,” Gruss explains. “You can also add the illusion of more shape with shirring, ruffles, and ruching.” Try Amore & Sorvete’s Bolly Bikini Top ($106) and Bottoms ($106), Beach Riot’s Heartbreaker Sophie Bikini Top ($73) Cupid Bikini Bottoms ($62) or Urban Outfitters’ Retro Floral Bikini Top ($42) and Bottom ($36).

If you’re small-chested…
Make sure to pick up a bikini top embellished with ruffles, which “create the illusion of a bigger chest,” according to Gruss. Fill out your frame with MICHAEL Michael Kors’ vacation-ready Ruffled Halter Swim Top ($76) and Tiered Ruffled Swim Bottom ($60), Marc by Marc Jacobs’ cheeky Molly Checks Bikini Top ($94) and Bottoms ($94), or Zimmermann’s ultra-feminine Oasis Frill Bandeau Bikini ($250).

If you have an athletic shape…
“Accent your toned figure with graphics and sporty cuts,” Gruss explains. “Show off your shoulders and minimize the bust. Choose full-cut bottoms if you’re planning to be active on the beach, and wear brights to highlight your most shapely assets.” Check out the vibrant colors and patterns of Zimmermann’s The Vase Scoop Bikini ($210) or ASOS’ Blanket Print Halter Plunge Fuller Bust Bikini Top ($27) Loopside Bikini Pant ($20), or the sleek shape of Juicy Couture’s Miss Divine Halter Bra ($87) Sheath Classic Bottom ($87).

Now that you know what suit to shop for depending on your body type, here are a couple more need-to-know tricks from the designer.

Is there one swimsuit that’s flattering on all body types?
“A one-piece is such a classic style,” Gruss says. “I love the retro pin-up girl feel, and with so many options available this season, there is a style to flatter every body type. It’s also a great way to cover your flaws and draw attention to your best assets.“

How do you know if you’re choosing the right size when it comes to the top and bottom?
“Always try the suit on before purchasing because sizes will vary, even from the same label,” Gruss advises. “Your suit should have the same comfort level as a bra. If you’re planning on doing more than just reclining, try running in place to make sure it provides enough coverage.

What style Swimsuit will you be wearing?

XOXO

Like StyleSalvation on Facebook

Get the Look: Alessandra Ambrosio

Alessandra Ambrosio’s leggy look, which consists of Ella Moss’ Lila Shirt ($148), Car Mar The Kevin Shorts ($168, 310.271.2727), Gerard Darel’s Simple Bag ($510) in Coral, and Chloe’s Leather Wedge Sandals ($760), exudes an easy-chic vibe that’s perfect for casual weekend outings and reminds us that high-waisted shorts can be a flattering choice when worn with the right pieces.

Top: When showing this much leg, proportions are everything. Choose a conservative button-front blouse or tee to balance your shorts’ up-to-there cut. On another note, love how the stripes on her shirt offer a fresh riff on the nautical trend.
​Similar Essentials: Vince Breton Striped Boat Neck Top ($195); J.Crew Engineered Striped Cotton-Jersey Top ($45); LC Lauren Conrad Striped Chiffon Blouse ($31).

Shorts: Pay attention to fit. Cutoffs that are slightly loose around the leg and sit high on the waist will flatter your figure and keep your look feeling pulled together.
​Similar Essentials: Current/Elliott The High Waist Distressed Denim ($178); J Brand High Rise Shorts ($165); BDG Button Fly Cuffed Denim Short ($49).

Bag: Introduce a splash of color with a red tote. The roomy bag is a great way to store any additional layers–like a scarf or lightweight sweater–you might want when the sun goes down.
​Similar Essentials: Longchamp Roseau Crocodile-Embossed Tote Bag ($475); Tory Burch Ella Tote ($250); Lacoste New Classic Large Tote ($150).

Shoes: A low wedge heel in an understated hue adds just the right amount of height, lending the casual outfit a chic finish.
​Similar Essentials: Manolo Blahnik Izione Ankle-Strap Wedge Sandals ($695); Madewell Slotted Cross Wedge Sandals ($158); DV by Dolce Vita Jobin Double-Buckle Wedge Sandal ($89).

XOXO

-D-Anna

Like StyleSalvation on Facebook

The Versatile Blogger Award!

Thanks so much to the Fabulous Bloggers cookingwithsapana , labellestudio and peacelovegreatcountrymusic for nominating me for the Versatile Blogger Award!

The rules:
1.Display the award logo on your blog.
2. Thank the person who nominated you.
3. State 7 things about yourself.
4. Nominate 15 other bloggers for this award.
5. Notify these bloggers of the nominations.

First of all, 7 things about me :

1. I enjoy Blogging!
2. I covet all types of Art.
3. I see fashion as form of expressing myself!
4. I love to inspire people!
5. I like to make new friends.
6. I enjoy traveling to exotic places.
7. I design clothing! Check out my store at: http://www.blessing-co.myshopify.com/

And now 15 blogs I have nominated for this award :

cindy knoke

Clouds N Cups

My Fashion S/ash Life

traditionis

myfavesjournal

Shiroknowes

bravechica

The Eye-Dancers

Crave N Savor

fashionskyfall

Patinspire

Greenhorn Photos

Sweenee Style

PearlsDiamondsandEverythingElse

essentjewels

I would also like to thank all my friends, fans, and fellow bloggers who support Style Salvation and Blessing-Co. More Style Inspiration coming your way!

This Bare-Faced black and white of Me was photographed by AlexandCamera.

Follow me on Pinterest and  Instagram for more Inspiration!

XOXO

-D-Anna

Like Blessing-Co on Facebook

Current Obsession: Cool Coveralls

Coveralls-the utilitarian cousin of the currently trending  jumpsuit–are enjoying a revival right now among celebrities like Kate Moss and Charlize Theron. These one-pieces are decidedly low-maintenance, whether you pair a denim version with sneakers for the weekend or dress up a sleeker style with heels for a night out!

Kate Moss: Dangling earrings and cat-eye sunglasses add femininity to Moss’ coveralls. Get The Look: 3.1 Phillip Lim Flight Suit ($850) in Smoke Blue.

Caroline Brasch Nielsen: Layer a printed jacket over a brightly colored jumpsuit for bold contrast. Get The Look: Lanvin Button Front Jumpsuit ($1895) in Fuchsia.

Belstaff S/S 13: Hardware embellishments give these coveralls a hint of toughness.Get The Look: PureDKNY Three Quarter Sleeve Jumpsuit ($395) in Greystone.

Gwen Stefani: Stefani’s G-Star Raw Arc 3D Boiler Suit ($223) and Puma by Mirahara’s bright MY-66 Sneakers ($120) channel an urban sporty vibe. Get The Look: Mango Denim Jumpsuit ($100) in Medium Denim.

Max Mara S/S 13: A silky jumpsuit gives this workwear-inspired trend a luxe feel. Get The Look: J Brand Angelina Jumpsuit ($595) in Black.

Sienna Miller: Worn with Stella McCartney’s Spearmint Faux Python Cross Body Bailey Boo Bag ($1200) and beaded sandals, Miller’s Isabel Marant one-piece feels ready for spring. Get The Look: Diesel Jollix Jumpsuit ($485) in Green.

Charlize Theron: Theron styled MiH Jeans’ sleek The Boiler Suit ($297) with strappy heels for an elegant going-out look. Get The Look: Topshop Pini Tapered Jumpsuit ($110)

Are you coveting Coveralls?

XOXO

-D-Anna

Like Blessing-Co on Facebook

Get the Look: Karlie Kloss

Skin
Makeup artist Monika Blunder started by smoothing Chanel’s Vitalumiere Aqua Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Makeup ($45) onto Kloss’ moisturized skin. Highlighter and bronzer next to contour. (She used VS Makeup’s Ultimate Face Glow Trio ($22), which isn’t available online, so try Sephora’s Sculpting Disk ($24) instead.) “Suck in your cheeks and apply bronzer hollow of your cheeks. “Then smile and apply blush onto the apples of your cheeks.” Blend any harsh edges with a brush and dust highlighter onto the top of your cheekbones. -Blunder used M.A.C.’s 109 Small Contour Brush ($35) for bronzer and 184 Duo Fibre Fan Brush ($23) for highlighter.

Eyes
Bare lids with a thick line of Nars’ Larger Than Life Eyeliner ($16) in Barrow Street on Kloss’ top lid,  and lightly smudged under the eyes as well. Layered VS Graphic Liner Pen ($13) along the top lash line, flicking the pen up for a slight cat-eye. Wearing white eyeliner is very fashion-forward and makes your eyes look bigger, but it can be intimidating. Blunder applied Nars’ Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner ($24) in Santa Monica Blvd. on the bottom waterline, curled her lashes, layered on a few coats of VS Volume Plump Mascara ($15) and penciled in eyebrows with Anastasia’s Brow Pencil ($23) in Ash Blonde.”

Lips
Velvet Matte Lip Pencil ($25) in Red Square straight from the stick. “It’s the perfect orangey-red color,” Blunder says.

Hair
Gregory Russell, prepped Kloss’ fine locks with Serge Normant’s Meta Lush Volumizer ($23) before blow-drying with Ibiza’s Small Round Brush ($41). He lifted her roots while drying, smoothing her bangs to one side. Then clipped hair into pin curls on her crown for lasting fullness. Once the hair set, Russell released the pins and brushed her tresses with Mason Pearson’s Popular Mixture Brush ($170). He applied Serge Normant’s Meta Sheer Dry Oil Finishing Spray ($24) to Kloss’ ends, rolled her locks under with a 1 1/2-inch curling iron, and set with hairspray.

Will you try Karlie’s Look?

XOXO

Like Blessing-Co on Facebook

Will you try the Midriff Trend?

Spring’s bare midriff trend runs the gamut of mere slivers of skin to full-on, belly-baring looks, and everything in between. Though showing any part of the stomach can be a scary endeavor, the key to pulling off this look is understanding your comfort zone and finding the right pieces to create a chic result. Not sure what midriff-baring level is right for you? From ladylike to rebel, we break down three different ways to try the trend.

Lady
The “lady” level-is proof this trend doesn’t have to be overly revealing. Showing only an inch or two of skin, it is both the easiest and most universally flattering way to wear the look. The goal is to pair an abbreviated top with a high-waisted skirt that hits at the knee, as this will balance the outfit for a modest outcome.
Key Pieces: Miu Miu Cropped Cashmere and Silk-Blend Cardigan ($530); Isabel Marant Chai Cropped Knit ($495); Heather Pencil Skirt ($132); James Perse Ruched Pencil Skirt ($165).

Flirty
If you want to take it up a notch, consider the “flirty” level. Revealing only the upper portion of your stomach, the look instantly highlights your waist and is a great option for summer BBQs or a music festival. Start with a crop top that falls just below the bust line, and then add trousers that sit high on the waist, above the navel. A belt will help give the appearance of a smaller waist. Feeling nervous still? Add a shirt knotted at the waist for more coverage.
Key Pieces: Tucker Floral-Print Stretch-Silk Crepe de Chine Bustier Top ($215); Topshop Binding Crop Top ($32); ASOS Pants with High Waisted Zip Front ($70).

Rebel
The “rebel” look is reserved for those seeking an advanced level in midriff-baring–svelte stomach required. In this case, you want to embrace extremes when it comes to your top and bottom options. That means a crop top that falls right under the bust line and a low-slung skirt or pants that sit at your hip bone.
Key Pieces: Topshop Crop Sweater ($60); ASOS ’90s Crop Top with Long Sleeve ($18); M Missoni Cotton-Blend A-Line Skirt ($695); Helmut Lang Fluid Crepe Pants ($345).

Will you try the Midriff Trend?

XOXO

D-Anna

Like StyleSalvation on Facebook

Pretty Presents for Mom!

Show her how much you care! Spoil Mom with whatever will delight her with these Pretty Presents!

The Kit: Moroccanoil Repair Essentials Kit, $64.60; moroccanoil.com

The Dress: Saint James for Coach Long Dress, $198; coach.com

The Polish: Laqa & Co. Nail Polish Pen, $14.95; kirnazabete.com

The IPhone Case: Uncommon Customized iPhone 5 Case, $39.95; getuncommon.com

The Sunglasses: Coach Claire Sunglasses, $198; sunglasshut.com

The Lipstick: Lipstick Queen Endless Summer Collection, $18 each; spacenk.com

The Notebook: Smythson Mum’s the Word Wafer Notebook, $60; smythson.com

The Body Cream: Bonpoint Pale Pink Body Cream, $65; bonpoint-boutique.com

The Bracelet: Ariel Gordon Charm Alphabet Bracelet, $65 – $435; arielgordonjewelry.com

The Bling Box: C. Wonder Flower Bling Box, $42; cwonder.com

Have a Happy Mother’s Day!

XOXO

-D-Anna

Like Blessing-Co on Facebook

May Obsessions

I love this Month…. besides being my Birth Month and the home of Mother’s Day, the flowers are blooming and the sun is shining. There are also a lot of great happenings this month:  From Salvatore Ferragamo’s bespoke shoe service to one of the year’s most highly anticipated films.  Here are some of things I am excited about out this May!

Ferragamo’s L’Icona, an exclusive online project in collaboration with photographer Claiborne Swanson Frank, launched in celebration of the Vara shoes’ 35th anniversary. After seeing how tastemakers style the shoes, which feature the iconic bow and a dainty heel, you’ll get the chance to customize your own. I love the classic elegance of the Vara ($550) in Bisque and White, but the bespoke service allows you to choose the show, bow, heel, and hardware color, as well as add your initials to the bottom of the shoe.

LEVI’s and Liberty of London’s collaboration is a fine example of transatlantic teamwork. The all-American denim label partnered with the British print masters for a collection of warm weather-appropriate pieces, available May 15th on Levi’s.com. Everything from the Anorak ($250) and 501 Shorts ($90) to the 646 Shorts ($90) features garden floral prints based on Liberty of London’s archive patterns that we’ll wear all spring and summer long.

This year’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute exhibition, PUNK: Chaos to Couture, will explore punk’s impact on fashion since the ‘70s. If you can’t make it to the exhibit, which runs from May 9th-August 14th, I suggest snagging its companion publication ($45). This coffee table-worthy tome features designers like Vivienne Westwood and Ann Demeulemeester, examining how punk’s anti-establishment attitude has influenced their work.

Watch director Baz Luhrmann’s vision of The Great Gatsby starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan, in theaters May 10th. Look out for decadent ‘20s-inspired costumes from Miuccia Prada, who pulled pieces from the Prada and Miu Miu archives specifically for the movie, and opulent Tiffany & Co. jewels.

Matthew Williamson’s rich colors and bold patterns have made their way into Benefit’s Limited Edition The Rich Is Back ($34) palette, a feast for the eyes that’s out later this month. Gold and teal eye shadows alongside a mini-tube of mascara, blush, and lip gloss–all inspired by the ‘70s, the decade from which Williamson derives much of his inspiration and during which Benefit was founded in San Francisco. You don’t need to be disco-bound to put this kit to good use!

What are you excited about this May?

XOXO

-D-Anna

Like Blessing-Co on Facebook

Shades of Sienna!

While our trusty blue jeans are a wardrobe standby, the latest trend has a place in our spring lineup too. Celebrities such as Alessandra Ambrosio and Freida Pinto have been spotted out and about in shades of sienna, wearing earthy tones ranging from rusty burnt-orange to warm taupe. Paired with pieces in a similar, nature-inspired palette, sienna is a incredibly versatile and a fresh alternative to your standard blues!

From left to right: Freida Pinto, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Julia Stegner

J Brand 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg ($172)

BlankNYC The Spray On Jeans ($88)

BDG Twig Mid-Rise Jeans ($59) in Peach Parfait

Are you wearing Sienna?

XOXO

-D-Anna

Like Blessing-Co on Facebook

Hawaiian Punch

A more sophisticated kind of island fever has recently won over the fashion world. Splashy tropical prints in a vibrant color palette–think: zippy tangerines, ocean blues, and punchy pinks–have flooded runways and red carpets alike. Selena Gomez wore the trend in a feminine way, wearing Dolce & Gabbana’s abbreviated Cotton Print Top (part of a two-piece set $1045) with a high-waisted Orange Cotton Stretch Pencil Skirt ($840) from the S/S 13 collection. Meanwhile, Mara Hoffman’s Beaded Flat Top ($216) and Gypsy Skirt ($264), also from S/S 13, featured a more literal interpretation of the Hawaiian trend. This look couldn’t be more perfect for warm spring and summer days. So say aloha to these fun styles!

Equipment Leandra Tropical Print Shirt ($218)
Leave it to Equipment to come up with a fresh and incredibly chic take on the Hawaiian shirt. Style it with crisp white jeans and brown wedge heels.

Ray-Ban Leather Trimmed Sunglasses ($268)
Ray-Ban’s tinted shades are a little bit sweet, thanks to flamingo pink lenses, while leather-trimmed frames give them a touch of edge.

Sandro Tiare Sweatshirt ($235)
Tell everyone where you wish you’d rather be in Sandro’s cute sweater. Pair it with denim cutoffs and gladiator sandals, and you’ll be ready for a day at the beach.

Twisty Parallel Universe Palm Print Skater Skirt ($472)
This girly skirt in a powerhouse print is a shortcut to paradise. Just balance its voluminous shape with a fitted, tucked-in top.

Juicy Couture Small Oval Drop Earrings ($42) in Yellow
Juicy Couture’s brightly colored baubles are the perfect accent for all these colorful pieces, but they’re understated enough for everyday wear too.

Kimchi Blue Palm Print Fold-Over Clutch ($29)
Take island-inspired prints beyond the beach with this bold clutch, which will instantly punch up your going-out ensembles.

Stubbs & Wootton for J.Crew Classic Linen Slippers ($400)
Whether you’re sipping mai-tais poolside or meeting friends for brunch, finish off your look with these playful slippers.

Joe’s Jeans Palm Beach High Water Jeans ($179)
A colorful palm print lends these cropped skinnies a hint of exotic appeal. Team them with a silky blouse and heels for your next GNO–or luau!

XOXO

Like StyleSalvation on Facebook