Checklist for summer:
• Sunshine, check (finally)
• Spray tan, check
• Sunscreen SPF 30, check
• Trashy novel, check
• Three months' worth of stomach crunches, um, check
• Bikini, uh-oh
Are you still looking for a swimsuit for this summer's poolside bashes or weekend afternoons at the beach? Stop by bikini central, aka Tininha's [0] in Fremont. The newly remodeled boutique has updated its digs and expanded its selection of bikinis (and one-piece suits), and added more handbags and clothing to the mix.
The shop's former beachy ambiance has been replaced with a more contemporary, sophisticated look, sort of retro Palm Springs meets 1960s Milan. New touches include bold, gold chain-patterned screens, white scoop chairs, a starburst light fixture and a mirrored countertop. Racks of bikinis still line the walls, but now there's a bigger selection of one-piece suits. The bright golden walls will cheer you up on even the dreariest Seattle days.
What styles sizzle on the sand this year? Shimmery fabrics, animal prints, bright greens, golds and yellows, and combinations of orange and navy are all popular. Details such as tie sides, leather embellishments and gold rings make an appearance, too. Many brands now give your assets a boost, with underwire demi-cup designs.
You'll find bikinis ($120-$220) in European-cut styles from Melissa Odabash that are simple but elegant. These best sellers feature unbelievably soft fabric and a great fit. Trina Turk bikinis have lots of bling and "jewelry," such as plastic baubles on side ties and fancy medallions. If your figure isn't perfectly balanced, don't worry -- all bikinis are mix and match. Choose the top and bottom that fit you best.
For a little more coverage, go for one-piece suits ($160-$220). Karla Colleto's designs are far from boring -- they come in surprising color combinations with creative details, like a gray suit with yellow piping and embellished with flowers.
Don't need a new suit? Choose from sexy layering tees by Fluxus and Tea Party that go from day to night; long-wearing, well-fitting Tonic yoga and loungewear; and an array of tops, bottoms and dresses.
Tininha also has a wide selection of Orla Keily totes, handbags and cosmetic cases ($76-$574) and cute journals (great for jotting down your dark secrets at the beach). Keily is known for her eye-popping color combinations and funky retro style patterns.
If you want a little more bang for your buck, visit the shop July 31 and celebrate Tininha's seventh anniversary [0] with a cocktail and 20 percent off anything in the store. For more swimwear info, sign up on the store's mailing list for sale notices and fashion shows.
If you have a shop, sale, event or great product tip you'd like to share, e-mail seattleshopping@nwsource.com.
Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company
