Published September 23, 2012
If you’re fair:
Porcelain skin on the beach can be classically beautiful when you find the right bathing suit. The goal is to find colors that will make your skin appear warmer instead of washed out. A popular hue this season is a bright apple red. Vintage cuts inspired by the 30s and 40s are also making waves this year. Designer Norma Kamali makes a 40s-inspired ruched bandeau swimsuit reminicient of Marilyn herself and this bold color works well if you are fair or have pink undertones. Pair this look with a large hat and glasses to further protect your delicate skin while adding an heir of mystery and elegance to your ensemble in true Miss Monroe fashion.
Other colors that work well on fair skin: Lime or apple green and warm browns, such as chestnut.
Colors to avoid: White, black, orange, and yellow.
If you’re medium skin toned:
Caucasian and asian women with beige or yellow undertones, who tend to tan and not burn, wear muted naturals and pretty pastels well. The under-stated colors, such as lavender or soft peaches, compliment tanned skin. Try pairing the J.Crew lavender bandeau bikini top with cute denim cut-offs from H&M and tie the look together with the Alexander McQueen Skull & Shell scarf for a look that can take you from the barbeque to the beach.
More options include: Mint, a bright white suit or classic black.
Colors to avoid: Yellow, orange, or colors that clash with your hair color.
If you have olive skin:
The most versatile of skin tones, olive. Brozed and glowing naturally, olive skin-tones have the greatest selection when it comes to playing with color. Since so many colors will compliment your skin, try playing around with fun summery hues that compliment one another. Our favorites this season: coral and turquoise. Pair a ruffled coral bikini by River Island with a gorgeous turquoise Cole Haan tote to pack all of your lazy-day beach reads.
Other great color picks: Mint, yellow, baby blue, and chocolate.
Colors to avoid: Mustard, grey, and hues that are close to your skintone or hair color.
If you’re dark:
Dark skin is accented best with Summer’s gorgeous jewel tones. A bright color such as emerald really pops when accented with muted tan accessories such as a dramatic straw hat or strappy sandals. Metallic accents also work very well. Try pairing the emerald green one-piece from J.Crew with classic logo cuff by Vince Camuto for a classy and trendsetting look while you lounge by the pool with your favorite cocktail in hand.
Other tones that make the cut: Amethyst, fushia, and yellow.
Colors to avoid: Beige and olive.
Always keep in mind that the color is just as important as the cut. This is true in diamonds, and this is true in fashion. Summer is a great time to have fun with different shades, and to experiment and accessorize. Color is such a thing of beauty and you are the canvas. Find your palette and paint away.
