The Trend: Retro Swimwear

Retro! Retro! Retro!

From Esther Williams to Samantha Sage, some of the sexiest and classic pieces swimwear this year is the Retro.  High waisted, sailor girl looks from the 1950's are back once more with today's modern fabrics, cuts, and shapes.  These wonderful swimsuits fit almost all body types and provides modest coverage to some.  

Hey! They always say Less is More.  

The above two piece is by a U.K. designer: Samantha Sage.  She has some wonderfully designed suits that I am eyeing right now.  Just can't decide which to choose!  She has been featured in Vogue and Cosmopolitan (see below).

The above Samantha Sage may be purchased at $77 from Unique Vintage.  It is so cute and I must say sexy and fun.  

And of course, the classic and true swimwear aficionado (or should I say aficionada): Esther Williams.  The above suits can be viewed and purchased at Mod Cloth.  They have a great selection but seems to be running out of sizes, FAST!  What's your other option? Just visit Esther Williams directly.

In case you didn't know, Esther Williams was part of the 1940's Olympics when WWII interrupted.  But no matter... her mark of fame was earned in Hollywood!  She starred in Hollywood's first swimming movie, Bathing Beauty.  And became the iconic pinup of returning GI's when WWII ended.  So does she know retro swimwear? Yes, I would say so!

Swimwear (clipped to Polyvore.com)

The Runway: Tommy Hilfiger in "Three's Company"

Taking two years off from New York's runway in 2005, Tommy Hilfiger has "changed his stripes" 

and spruced up his preppy styles.

Since 2009, Tommy Hilfiger has hired two critically acclaimed designers to help freshen up his 26 years old label's image in the U.S., especially among luxury shoppers.  Recommended by Anna Wintour, Hilfiger first hired Peter Som in 2009 to help work on his Women's clothing.  Then just last year he hired Simon Spurr to head up the Men's clothing.  Both as creative consultants.

The result? Glamorous success!  Last year, many high end shoppers took note of the new Hilfiger women's sexy prep.  Their biggest hit last year was the over the knee, high heeled lace up women's duck boots that Som and Hilfiger collaborated on.  It was the most talked about and demanding item for the line in years.

The aesthetics of Tommy Hilfiger staples are still there, despite the modern twist.  That is what Hilfiger wants.  He asked the two designers to come up with modern interpretations of what is traditional to Tommy Hilfiger.  And after many sessions of discussions, brainstorming and sketching, well, viola!

You can read the full article or view the slideshow by visiting The WSJ Online.