Adam Glassman
Photo: Robert Trachtenberg
Q: Am I too old for a bikini? I'm 47, wear a size 4 to 6, and exercise regularly.
If you've got the body, go ahead. Lots of women in their 40s and 50s work hard to stay in shape, and they've earned the exposure. Just be brutally honest about how fit you are—if there's any muffin top going on, forget it—as well as how comfortable you'll feel in public. I'm no prude, but I wince at teeny-weeny surfer-girl bikinis on mature figures. Get one that covers more of you (a substantial fabric, like a nylon-spandex blend, is also a plus). And if you think a bikini is the only way to look sexy on the beach, think again: A great tankini or one-piece that shows less skin can be equally appealing.

Buying Guide: Adam's picks for the best sophisticated swimsuits
Adam Glassman
Photo: Robert Trachtenberg
Q: I'm a size 16 with a 40F chest—are there sexy suits with proper bras?
Absolutely. Now that swimwear makers are more alert to the needs of curvy women, I've found gorgeous suits (from labels such as Panache, Freya, and Fantasie) that are sized like bras and designed to accommodate larger breasts. Insist on real cups (not a shelf bra) and not-too-skinny straps so you won't spill over while swimming. I don't like to dictate, but more zaftig people really do look better in solid colors...which doesn't rule out red!

Buying Guide: Adam's picks for sexy suits with built-in bras
Adam Glassman
Photo: Robert Trachtenberg

One year ago
 we praised Lands' End for its responsiveness to breast cancer survivors, and I'm thrilled by the modern shapes and fashionable palettes of this season's 17 updated styles, with pockets for prostheses. 

Lands end mastectomy swimsuitLeft: Plum and black one-piece ($97) has hold-you-in fabric for an ultrasmooth look. 


More great mastectomy suits

 

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