Retail therapy

Jul 14 2007 by Hannah Davies, The Journal

IT’S a gamble waiting for your favourite label to have a sale. Will the style you resisted earlier in the season still be there? If it is, the purchase is meant to be and you’ve got it at least half price! The gorgeous 50s-inspired swimwear range for sizes 8-18 from Toast is still available online but disappearing pretty fast. This polka dot bather used to be £65, now its £39. Fifties styles suit 50s-type figures, curvy with waists and accessorised in a retro fashion, are pure Busby Berkley/Hollywood, www.toast.co.uk, (0870) 240 5200.

GIRLS with a bit more on top might be best suited to swimsuits and bikinis from lingerie lines. They have much more experience in “support”. This Vodka Martini style from Freya is a balcony-style bikini top, £32, which ranges in size from 30D to 38G with matching hipster shorts, £22, sizes XS-XL. What’s particularly delicious about this set is the chocolate mint ice-cream colour combination. Freya styles are sold at Bravissimo and John Lewis in Newcastle and Debenhams in the Metrocentre, Gateshead. Other stockists (01536) 764 334.

LARGER girls need shape and support in a swimsuit and the range from online catalogue Simply Be is simply brilliant. This 70s inspired halter neck style in sizes 12-32, has a stylish and flattering wrap effect to create more of a ‘waist’ and soft foam cups which give natural looking support. Check out the designer range from specialist fashion designer Anna Scholz, it’s a complete resort wardrobe to rival ranges at five times the price, (0871) 231 5000, www.simplybe.co.uk

SOME fashion pundits report that stripes are simply not cool this season; we say we don’t care! These stripes are so jolly; they’re made for fun holidays. From the range of Retro Seaside styles by Lepel available in Fenwick, House of Fraser, John Lewis and larger Boots stores, this bandeau top is £22 with matching hipster pants for £14 in sizes 10-16. Other stockists on (0115) 983 6000.

THIS laminated jute black and white beach bag with raffia flower and plaited handle is a beach essential. There’s tons of space inside and its extremely good value at £12.99. It’s not the kind of thing you’d be expecting to find on the Damart website is it? It’s a website full of surprises and not full of vests as you would think. Also pictured here is the Doreen swimsuit from £49.99 in sizes 36-44 B to E cup; its unique three section cup design and adjustable straps are said to make it one of the most comfortable swimsuits around. Damart is online www.damart.co.uk and mail order (0870) 833 000.