And then there are the elegant cover-ups that really can look stunning at the poolside bar or walking up to the hotel. And yes I even look at beach wedgies that have a bit of pizzazz and big voluminous beach bags that I can get someone to carry for me.  Ha! Ha!

I suppose the swimsuit choice is to some extent dictated by the company you’ll be with and the nature of the place you’ll be.  You don’t want to breach good etiquette  by wearing the wrong thing at the wrong time in the wrong place. (Wink! Wink!) I’m assuming a resort where it’s fine to be a little risky and you should have a couple of really nice cover ups anyway.

Ujena advises that they only sell hot and sexy swimsuits.  I looked and some are really beautiful.  A couple of nice one piece actually in their resort section. I don’t know that theirs are any hotter or sexier than anyone else’s really!

Look at the latest at InStyle.  They just came out with a stunning monokini from CHIO called Angel.  In white poly/spandex with an outline of Swarovski Crystals on the edges.  This suit is Italian (where else?) and retails for $213. I think I’m going to order this one!

How about Victoria’s Secret? I always like and trust DKNY who puts out this suit. It’s a chain-trim molded sliding halter top. Goddess swimwear with a dramatic neckline and simple, elegant details. Lined cups Floating underwire for extra support  Ties at neck and back.  It can be ordered in ivory or black and the ivory is fully lined.  It’s Victoria’s item #  223-418  and the price of the top is $68 and the matching bottom $60. If you really want something a little more discreet DKNY also has a twist-front tankini top.   Removable soft cups. Wide straps for extra comfort and a scoop bottom.  Both together items # #223-426 and 223-427.$70 and $44 respectively. That’s a really good looking suit. See if you agree.

While we’re on the beach,  I just happened upon this lovely hat and I can’t resist talking about it.  So bear with me, please!  I found this one by Australian designer Melissa Oderbash and it’s called a Jemima Beige.  Big and floppy but with the most classy tilt to it. They are selling for $106 at InStyle Swimwear.  They don’t give it a style or item number so just go online and order one.  I’m going to right now.

Wait on while I shop another monokini.  Got to have a selection!

Lets take this one item at a time and I’ll prove my point.

OK first let’s start with relaxed tops and pants.  Tops to begin. First, a  Victoria’s Secret Pink® Smocked hoodie in terry. Love that terry. Heart zip pull detail. Graphic details on hood and sleeve. White with pink trim.  Get the pants to go with it and voila we’ve got an outfit to travel in or loll about in for a sale price right now of $69 for both.  How about that? Both!

Then something a bit more dressy for the evenings on the deck outside the villa. A Knot-front curvy jersey dress

Fit-and-flare shape with v-neck and wide straps.  This one is great. At $75 it’s Victoria Secret’s item # #193-557. (right now it’s on “special” at $69.50!)

And this would look great on you too. A turtleneck sweaterdress in white ribbed cotton for a flattering fit. Faux button cuffs. Imported cotton/nylon. Item # #213-659  You’re saving $10 at $39. You could also add this cotton ribbed sweater for an evening with a little chill in the air in brilliant blue.  Very striking and form fitting. Deep v-neck.#213-112 Priced at $19 for another $10 saving.

Well, I suppose we could get a couple of swim suits.  This is Victoria’s Secret after all!  OK start with this one. It’s in the category “Beach Sexy” – hmm – sounds good! Pretty bikini. Sequin Floral Sliding Triangle Top.  Super trendy, Viccis says “flirty and fashionable fun in the sun”. I’ll buy that.  You can pick your top and bottom sizes separately.
All-over sequins with floral trim. Lined cups. Ties at neck and back. Their item #221-203 and only $36.

One more for the beach or pool. This one has a sexy and classy look to it.  In the Very Sexy® group, a gold-trim racerback tankini with gold charm belted scoop bottom. The suit is sea worthy and you can pick your top and bottom sizes separately. helf bra lining with underwire cups for extra support. Item #221-094 Price $44.
So that’s it.  Dressed for vacation by Victoria’s Secret!  Lots more to add to your wardrobe if you so desire.

Have a great vacation.

First of all let’s assume you want to see a package that is essentially all-inclusive. Right there there’s a wealth of choice which runs from literally everything down to minimal arrangements and you fill in the dots. Anyway, here goes.
First of all some of the best known package offerings and a run down on what they do and don’t contain.

Let’s take Europe for a start. A complete tour or only one country?  Let’s take Great Britain only as an example. In most cases, the tourist or travel bureau for the Country involved will be a good source of information. Often, will offer packages themselves or allow advertisers to display their packages.   Take a look at several and compare.  Then start to research the reputation of the operator and comments filed by clients who have experienced the vacation. One such offering is Virgin Air’s vacation package site. At the top of Virgin’s listing is a basic tour for six days that includes airfare that starts at $549.This one gives you six nights in a London hotel, round trip airfare, continental breakfast  and hotel taxes and surcharges. That’s a very stripped down package.

Moving up the scale with Virgin’s offerings. What about a six night stay in Vienna with RT airfare and similar hotel arrangements.  In June, that trip is $1,389 per person. There’s a complete variety of city packages with stays for different periods of time and a choice of hotel quality and dates.

You get the idea. A luxury hotel in central London near shops, museums, sights and restaurants is going to run you somewhere near $3,500 for six nights. You could then add a number of event tickets to the package or you can put yourself in the hands of reputable tour operator who does it all for you and has their rep. tell you where to go and what to do. Personally, I’m not crazy about that type of travel.  I need my freedom.

OK I mentioned a sailboat in the BWI or somewhere like that.  Let’s look for something along those lines.  This is a sample: Three Moons offers your own boat, crew, all food, fees, on a 65foot yawl, fully appointed for between $13,500 and $17,000 a week. The rates depend on season. Stay away when the hurricanes are around. Obviously, there are less expensive ways to sail the Caribbean but you’ll be sharing accommodation and you can’t just jump off in the middle of a cruise!

The more one looks in to whats available, the more addled you’re likely to become.  Probably, the best way is to sketch out where you want to go and the type of vacation you’re looking for.  Then research it from there using the criteria you have developed. The other option is use a travel agent.

Lets start at my favorite store – Nordstrom’s.  One right near me at Providence Place in Providence.  So if you see something you like online, we can meet for coffee and go try them on at the store.  Yoo! Hoo! How about these for the white pants.  They are a pair of  Theory ‘Max C – Cohesion’ Pants in a heavy cotton blend and cut slim through the hips and thighs and styled with slightly flared legs. I like the look, don’t you? Details  – Zip fly with double hook-and-bar closure. Front slant pockets; back besom pockets. Belt loops. Approx. inseam: 34 1/2″. Unlined. Cotton/viscose rayon/elastane.  It’s Nordstrom # 205698 and they’re priced at $235.

Now tops.  What do they have in those that are eye poppers?  Well, this one is sharp.  What do you think?  It’s a  Diane von Furstenberg ‘Dalena’ Tie Neck Top Graphically printed, crinkled silk chiffon top has a front scooped neck pulled together by a flouncy tie. Rounded puff sleeves and A-line shape. Back yoke with pleating beneath for added volume.Wide, topstitched hem. Approx. length from shoulder: 27″. Includes adjustable camisole in Silk/spandex.  Nordstrom item # 210993    Price $198.  That would go well with those pants.

OK another top, right? This one in washed red cotton is pretty.  Free People Solid Smocked Waist Top. Airy, lightweight woven top has wide short sleeves and smocking at the waist for a comfortably stylish silhouette. Back yoke features intricate crochet detailing. Front button closure. Mandarin collar. Front hem is longer than back hem. Approx. length from shoulder: 26″.Nordstrom #209895 and really inexpensive at $88.

Let’s pick out a suit and cover up for the pool? This combo is a pool winner.   Ralph Lauren Sport ‘Ricky’ Stripe Bikini Top. Halter-style string bikini top is patterned with sleek stripes and secured with metal grommets at the top. In Black/White nylon/spandex or Gold/White in nylon/polyester/metallic fibers.  Both great. The bottom is a  Ralph Lauren Sport Skirted Hipster Bikini Bottoms feature an attached striped miniskirt with ties at the side. Embroidered logo at front.Approx. length: 7″ Black/White is nylon/spandex, Gold/White is nylon/polyester/metallic  The combo is Item # 208919 and item # 208913 and the price of the pair is $136.  That’s one that looks so good online that I think I’ll try one myself, maybe in the gold and white.

Nice coverup now. Since we’re looking at Ralph’s stuff, this one by his shop in white or black is very swish.
Lauren by Ralph Lauren Halter Cover-Up Dress Long tie at the Empire waist adjusts the fit of a terry cloth cover-up.
Ties behind neck. Embroidered logo. Approx. length from top center front to hem: 22″.  Nylon lining in Cotton/polyester. Nordstrom # 207572 $73.00

And now for the piece de resistance! A wingding party dress for cocktail time. This one should turn heads. Marc Jacobs Tie Neck Printed Dress. Wide straps form a flattering V-neck, meeting in a fabric flourish at the bust. Thinner straps tie at the back of the neck, ending in a casual bow. The flattering Empire cut gives way to a slightly gathered skirt with two side-seam pockets.Length shoulder to hem 36″.Rayon/silk.  Nordstrom Item # 203334 Price $378.

This one just must go on the list.  Shimmering,  BCBGMAXAZRIA Sequined Sheath. Sparkly sequins adorn a V-neck dress with a chiffon Empire waist, sweetly cinched with a tie.Approx. length from shoulder to hem: 35″. Lined. Polyester/spandex
Nordstrom item # 180261.  I love this dress.

A formal? Perfect late night on board.   BCBGMAXAZRIA Strapless Floral Chiffon Gown.Gorgeous flowing gown has an artfully ruched bodice atop a waist-sculpting adjustable tie. Back zip with hook-and-eye closure. Boned bodice. Rubber strip at top of bodice secures fit.Nonremovable tie. Approx. length from top center front to hem: 52″. Polyester lining in Silk. Nordstrom item # 174554 $420.

What a lovely group of clothes.  You are going to be the main attraction on this damn boat!

When I hit the beaches of Miami last month with my cousin Eva, I couldn’t believe the number of swimsuits that came out of her luggage. It was literally a dozen pieces of swimwear, which boggles the mind since we were only going to be in Miami for 5 days. When I asked her about it, she cheekily says that she didn’t want to run into the Kardashian sisters and look like a total dork. Yeah, as if that would happen, but whatever.

They were all cute except for two that came in fluorescent colors that momentarily blinded me. Bringing a dozen swimwear pieces wasn’t a total waste of effort for my dear cousin because I got to borrow three of them. If you’re looking for the best swimwear for this year, check these babies out, they are catching the attention of the boys and more importantly, the fashionistas out there who are always keeping an eye out for the competition!

Check out this Tori Praver brand Mahina one piece swim wear (Style #:TORIP20033) in black which is probably one of the sexiest one pieces I have ever seen. It’s always tricky wearing a one piece because you don’t want to look like a total prude, in a beach like those in Miami, and you don’t want to look as if you borrowed it from your mother either. This one piece is perfect because it still have the sexy edge even if your belly is covered, which is perfect for women who do not feel like exposing their belly (or just feeling particularly conservative for a day). It is a low V neck one piece adorned by a gold zip that goes all the way to the belly button which serves as a bold detail on the front and the cups are smocked and lined. The back on the other hand features a sexy low dip that goes all the way to the middle of the back and it has straps that can be adjusted. I asked Eva to take a photo of me in the swimsuit from all angles and the back shot was one of my favorites, so sexy. The best part about this is that it is at 50% off on Shopbop, now at $71.50.

This next designer swimwear is a memorable one because this was what I was wearing when that cute Brit bought me a drink and chatted me up. That day I was feeling particularly sexy and loving my smart tan and thought the nice green shade flattered my new color. Apparently that was the case because I was asked out on a date! This cute Tibi shirred bikini swim top (Style #:TIBII30054) can definitely catch attention with its refreshing leaf color, light sheen and cute bandeau style which had a halter style straps. It has boned sides so the top keeps its shape on the side, no bunching or bulking. The bottom is sold separately, but it comes in the exact same shade of green and same string sides which is uber sexy. The bikini top is also available in the color juniper and is a bargain at 50% off, coming down to only $52.

The last one I borrowed from Eva was a break from the plains, I chose a bit more color with some bold print which I guess reflected my mood. The date went well, we had a few laughs, shared a few glasses of wine and promised to keep in touch (he was leaving the day after for the UK, boohoo). But still, I was in a sunny mood so I donned a great pair of bikini which had a mosaic pattern. This Luli Fama ‘Wavey’ Tie Front Bandeau Bikini Top (item# 358311) is quite pricey at $92, but Eva said she bought it out of her bonus money so I guess she was treating herself. The bandeau top is super cute with clasps on the back and an adjustable front tie that enables you to fit you as snugly as you want, plus the cups are molded to you don’t have to worry about being formless up there which is the danger of wearing bandeaus. Again the bottom is sold separately but Eva bought that too in the same print and color with the same frilly edge and yellow piping.

Well, I guess I have to thank my crazy cousin for bringing a ton of swimwear because it definitely made my summer that much more interesting!

Fast forward to present – the  monokini swimsuit has taken on a new form and it now loosely applies to one piece swimsuits that leave the belly area semi-bare. You see a lot of these suits being worn by women now, and in some cases it comes out sexier (weird, eh?) and yet a bit more conservative than bikinis. I haven’t actually owned a monokini but my cousin insists that I get one just to shake things up, especially for our trip to the Caribbean in a few months’ time. Will you help me decide which one to get?

Among the three monokinis that I’ve shortlisted, this one is the safest bet. In my mind, there is a raging debate: play it safe or take it up a notch? I’m trying out something new, why not make it drastically new? But then again, this is my first foray into the monokini territory, so why not take baby steps? This Victoria’s Secret cut out monokini in black (#269-668) is absolutely stunning and the cuts are all in the right places that it still looks very classy. It is a sexy, deep V monokini swimsuit that ties at the neck and back so that from behind, it looks as if i’m wearing a two piece. One cutout at the front is right in the middle, and dips low in front that the bellybutton is exposed. There are also cutouts on the sides, scooping inward, giving the illusion of an even narrower waist. A piece of string connects the two ruffled cups, super duper sexy. Originally affordable at $58, it is now at a jaw-dropping clearance bargain at $19.99; also available in sexy little pink.

From a no-brainer bargain, we move on to mind boggling expensive. Mind you this is already on sale but when I reveal the price in the end, you’re still gonna wonder how such a miniscule amount of fabric can command such a high price. Two words: Herve Leger. Famous for bandage dresses, Herve Leger now has bandage swimsuits. This cutout one-piece monokini swimsuit (NMF12_T3B6J) in off-white has a low Queen Anne neckline, a cutout, and a crisscross midriff that bares the navel. The material is made from a polyester, nylon and spandex combination which molds to the body—well, like bandage. Originally at $890.00 (gulp!), it is now at $311.00 (I couldn’t bring myself to say ‘only’). I guess since we’re staying at a high end resort, I better think about buying high-end swimwear…

Now this,  I’m almost sure I’m going to buy whatever happens. A one-shoulder black monokini swimsuit from Victoria’s Secret (#266-635), originally at $98, now at $73. It’s asymmetrical with multiple bead detailing running along the right breast all the way to the left shoulder. There is a thin sliver of fabric connecting the top part to the bottom, located at the left waist which bares practically the whole abdomen much like a two piece would. In the back, it has modest coverage and a clasp with a VS gold tone logo on it, which I think is a nice subtle touch. The material is a nylon/Lycra combination, and is fully lined with light, removable padding. I’m pretty sure that this item will be mine even before this day ends.

So what do you think about my choices? These beautiful monokini swimsuits have made you think about giving them a try yourself! With choices ranging from the super budget to high fashion, you could definitely find something that suits your budget and taste. Throw away that last shred of caution and do it!

I thought that staying in a luxury Caribbean resort was something I’d only get to do when I reached the age of 60, when my bones are too brittle and wearing Louboutins can literally kill me—so I’d finally spend my money on a proper luxurious vacation instead of high heeled shoes. But thankfully—whoops, I meant unfortunately—Eva split up with her boyfriend of seven months and decided to take me instead!

Eva didn’t book the resort until just a couple of weeks from leaving because we wanted to make sure that we were going to the absolute perfect place. We put our heads together for two Friday nights in a row, surfing online for the perfect island, the most reasonable prices, the finest amenities and the best culture we can soak up. Over glasses of wine and takeaway nibbles from the deli we planned our little escapade and debated over Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, and Jamaica. But in the end we settled for Turks and Caicos because it piqued our interest more and it sounded more exotic to our ears than the other islands.

Next thing we set off to do was to find a hotel in Turks and Caicos. We weren’t a couple, but we still wanted to find a resort with a romantic feel to it—it’s good for the soul and who knows, we might actually find a holiday romance while we’re there. We wanted to do everything by ourselves and not fall into Caribbean vacation packages—it was definitely a labor of love. I wanted Eva’s birthday to be the best Caribbean vacation filled with luxury and good food, so I put in a lot of effort into planning the vacation as well.

In the end and after reading countless reviews, one resort stood out for us: the world renowned Parrot Cay resort in Providenciales. The resort site said that it was acres upon acres of unspoilt nature, miles upon miles of powder white beaches and it didn’t disappoint! We booked an ocean facing room that was bright, airy and filled with local hardwood furniture set against marvelous whitewashed walls—it felt like a home away from home. The room came up to $600 a night which included complimentary breakfast and complimentary water sports. One of the highlights of the trip must have been the complimentary massage service that the manager threw in (we were staying quite a few nights and it WAS Eva’s birthday), It was so good that I fell asleep halfway through. The service was impeccable, they made us feel truly looked after and special.

We loved the food that was prepared for us. Most of the lunches, we had delivered by room service but at night we dressed up and ordered at the Lotus restaurant. It was al fresco dining and we enjoyed the mild afternoon breeze that wafted in while sipping on cocktails. If ever you’re at Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos, try the signature spiced banana fritters with banana ice cream for dessert, it’s to die for!

The beach is just magnificent, just walk for a few minutes and you can have the feeling that you’re in a deserted island by yourself. The good thing about this luxury resort in this part of the Caribbean is that it’s a relative newcomer to tourist development and so you hardly see any high rise or super big concrete resorts vying for space. Eva and I spent the early afternoons walking around the beach, and the environment definitely gave us the chance to reconnect and bond further.

My review of this luxury Caribbean resort? I would definitely go back. And I can’t wait to meet somebody to spend a romantic getaway here with!

I love the loose, flowy materials that you can just slip on after your skin has dried off from swimming. It goes so perfectly with the tousled hair that the beach (or the pool) gives you and the lovely olive glow you get. With the right print and cut, you could be ready for a night out, all you need is just some lip gloss and mascara.

I’m really into the bohemian inspired cover ups and dresses that just spell c-h-i-c especially when paired with strappy flat sandals (or espadrille wedges if you want a bit of height) and delicate gold hoop earrings. Here are some of the best finds when it comes to beach cover ups:

Diane von Furstenberg is famous for eye catching geometric prints and this one is no exception. The Leurette swimsuit cover up dress (Style #:DIAVF40196) is made of 100% silk chiffon for the perfect casual hug to your frame. It’s sheer but the geometric prints are distracting enough visually that you can wear this over a swimsuit to a casual beach restaurant or to a smart dinner out provided that you have a slip underneath. It has shoulder length dolman sleeves, smocking in the front plus drawstrings (that are best left undone) and some ruching at the back. Come in sizes P and S. Quite pricey at $295, so if your birthday is coming up you should just probably put this in your wish list!

This next one is so pretty, it hurts the eyes. It’s a Shoshanna strapless cover up (Style #:SHOSH30014) in a white eyelet fabric that is so flirty yet innocent at the same time. It has an elastic band at the top and waist which gives it its shape, plus scalloped hemming that just looks so elegant on any dress. 100 percent cotton, it’s sure to make your skin breathe even under the hot sun. I actually bought this for myself cos it’s too cute to pass up on, and fortunately I got it for 30% off the original price and only came down to $129.50. I have used it for the beach since, and a straw hats compliments it well. One confession: I have also used it on a night out: paired with high heels and a loose beige blazer, stun-ning.

Here’s one that appeals to the 70’s child in me. All you need is a middle hair part and a pretty daisy behind you ear and you’re ready for a retro photo shoot. I saw this being worn by a friend of my cousin and I couldn’t help but ask her for the details. This is a Diane Von Furstenberg Isidore white tunic (Style #:DIAVF40085), featuring a deep V at the neck which is held together by an elegant rope tie. It is semi sheer (if you’re wearing colored bathing suit, it will definitely show) with long bell sleeves, and comes right down to the middle of the thighs. The material is 79% polyamide and 21% elastane, which doesn’t sound super breathable but it is loose enough to let air in through the sleeves and the hem. Currently a bargain at 50% off, it retails at $192.50.

First of all let’s assume you want to see a package that is essentially all-inclusive. Right there there’s a wealth of choice which runs from literally everything down to minimal arrangements and you fill in the dots. Anyway, here goes.
First of all some of the best known package offerings and a run down on what they do and don’t contain.

Let’s take Europe for a start. A complete tour or only one country?  Let’s take Great Britain only as an example. In most cases, the tourist or travel bureau for the Country involved will be a good source of information. Often, will offer packages themselves or allow advertisers to display their packages.   Take a look at several and compare.  Then start to research the reputation of the operator and comments filed by clients who have experienced the vacation. One such offering is Virgin Air’s vacation package site. At the top of Virgin’s listing is a basic tour for six days that includes airfare that starts at $549.This one gives you six nights in a London hotel, round trip airfare, continental breakfast  and hotel taxes and surcharges. That’s a very stripped down package.

Moving up the scale with Virgin’s offerings. What about a six night stay in Vienna with RT airfare and similar hotel arrangements.  In June, that trip is $1,389 per person. There’s a complete variety of city packages with stays for different periods of time and a choice of hotel quality and dates.

You get the idea. A luxury hotel in central London near shops, museums, sights and restaurants is going to run you somewhere near $3,500 for six nights. You could then add a number of event tickets to the package or you can put yourself in the hands of reputable tour operator who does it all for you and has their rep. tell you where to go and what to do. Personally, I’m not crazy about that type of travel.  I need my freedom.

OK I mentioned a sailboat in the BWI or somewhere like that.  Let’s look for something along those lines.  This is a sample: Three Moons offers your own boat, crew, all food, fees, on a 65foot yawl, fully appointed for between $13,500 and $17,000 a week. The rates depend on season. Stay away when the hurricanes are around. Obviously, there are less expensive ways to sail the Caribbean but you’ll be sharing accommodation and you can’t just jump off in the middle of a cruise!

The more one looks in to whats available, the more addled you’re likely to become.  Probably, the best way is to sketch out where you want to go and the type of vacation you’re looking for.  Then research it from there using the criteria you have developed. The other option is use a travel agent.