Style at Any Size is back! For a little backstory, my sister-in-law, Nora of Purely Nora, and I got our start in this blogging world hand-in-hand with our co-authored blog, Purely Simply. One of the things I am most proud of from Purely Simply is Style at Any Size! We both style the same piece or look while having two different body types, adding our own personal twists, showing that you can have style at any size. We are so excited to keep this series going with one of our favorite mutual brands, SUMMERSALT!
Summersalt is a size-inclusive, sustainable travel and swimwear company that seamlessly marries function with style. They are transparent about pricing, materials and fit, all important things to take into consideration when shopping for swimwear. Nora and I took our affinity for twinning to new heights (aka the pool lol), and both styled their Marina one piece suit while we were in Florida in February! We thought it would be fun to share, now that more of us are able to be outside and in the summer sun.
Elsa:
How do you find the fit?
I find the Marina suit’s fit and proportions to be fantastic. I always size up one or two in bathing suits regardless of the brand, and I sized up one here and the fit was perfect. For the most part this suit is true to size, but if you have a longer torso or large chest like me, sizing up would be my recommendation. For curves, the proportions are great and there is enough coverage in the bum, and support in all the right places. The suit has a soft cup, but the straps still provide a good amount of support, and I really appreciate that you can adjust the straps depending on your chest size and needs! Summersalt suits generally have 4x the compression of an average suit, so I feel very supported, smooth, and confident without feeling squished. Summersalt has a comprehensive size guide, and I always advise my gals to look at measurements vs. numerical sizes, because swimwear is different than clothing!
What is your favorite Summersalt style?
The Marina (one I’m wearing)! I’m not sure I’ve come across a more flattering silhouette for curves, that also is comfortable and has compression technology. The asymmetrical design accentuates my body type and is simply just fun! They have great colorways and patterns in this style, too. I also love the Backflip suit and, like Nora, found that it runs more true to size. Anything with supportive straps is a win in my book. I have my eye on this Tie Belted Cove style, too, how cute is it?!
What is your favorite thing about Summersalt?
Without a doubt their dedication to size inclusivity! Summersalt has created cute and stylish swimwear that is accessible to all body types, which means more to me than I can express. Swimwear is probably the most challenging thing to shop for as a plus-size woman, and Summersalt provides a nice breadth of product from swimwear to cover-ups up to a size 22. I feel really strongly that everyone deserves a seat at the swimwear table and Summersalt is helping create more options for more bodies.
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Nora:
How do you find the fit?
So for me, the fit completely depends on the style. I love a good size chart and Summersalt’s is very thorough! Measurement wise, I’m a 4, but I also have a long torso which makes shopping for swimsuits – especially one pieces – a bit of a challenge. The rise is never quite right and that was no exception here! As far as the Summersalt one piece styles go, the Marina runs a bit small while the Voyager, Ruffle Oasis and Ruffle Backflip run a bit more tts. I’m wearing the Marina in a 4 here, and while I’m a fan of the material and the general shape, it’s a bit short length wise. In some styles, I was able to size up to a 6 for comfort (and to avoid the dreaded camel toe). If you’re in between sizes I recommend ordering a few styles and sizes and sending back what doesn’t work – their return process is super seamless. It’s worth noting that Summersalt does carry LONG TORSO options, but I’ve yet to get my hands on one! They sell out super quickly. As far as bikinis go, I found them to run tts. Lastly, I have to say that I was very impressed with the quality, wearability and durability of the swimsuit fabric – it’s unlike anything I’ve ever worn or felt before! Summersalt says their suits have 4x the compression of the average suit and retain their shape better over time. In my experience, that’s true!
What is your favorite Summersalt style?
This dotted french top and high waisted bottom from the Jacey Duprie Collection. I am a sucker for a french-cut top! Over the years I’ve found that I feel my best in that silhouette – it’s particularly flattering on my smaller chest and broader shoulders. And, as much as I adore high rise everything, I hadn’t worn a high rise bikini bottom until I tried this one. With my torso, most “high rise” bottoms nip and pull in all the wrong places and I was pleasantly surprised to find that these hit my natural waist exactly where they should. I love the nautical tie detail, too! The backside was a bit cheeky, but still tasteful, and if high rise isn’t your jam, there’s a mid-rise option.
What is your favorite thing about Summersalt?
Hands down my favorite thing about Summersalt is their commitment to sustainability. I love that I can wear chic and comfortable swimwear that not only protects me – hello, UPF 50+ – but is made consciously, mindfully and as eco-friendly as possible. Summersalt suits are crafted from recycled plastics, post-consumer materials and nylon waste – like old fishing nets! – that are literally pulled from the ocean and transformed into practical, beautiful designs. It’s a win-win!
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Thank you!! Talking about fit, details about material, all of this is what I need, all the time, but especially in swim wear.
I’m over 50, and need all the help and language I can get about fit and what works for curves, not curves, so I can develop my own eye. Thank you for offering this detailed review and d plantation. I feel empowered enough by your info to try and buy.