Beach Beautiful

Huddersfield Examiner

Hot and comfortable!

HOLIDAYS in the sun are an eagerly awaited escape from every day routine which, for most of us, come around once a year at best.

Getting ready to jet off to warmer climes can be almost as much fun as the holiday itself, especially when you have the chance to replenish your wardrobe.

Choosing beachwear can be a tantalising prospect but for best results, try to strike the right balance between comfort and style.

If you find something that is great to look at but makes you feel even slightly uncomfortable when you put it on, sad to say, it's a definite no-no.

How many times have you opened a glossy magazine or national newspaper to be confronted by a candid snap of a famous celebrity in holiday gear totally unsuitable for someone of their body shape and height? If they can be caught out, so can you!

Beachwear is best chosen carefully as any errors of judgement will be all too obvious, but if you do feel the urge to experiment, at the very least ask for a second - or third - opinion before committing yourself. In shops, ask an assistant to recommend suitable styles for you.

As you excitedly count the days to your much-needed break, you might be tempted to throw caution to the wind, but their feedback and alternative suggestions could save you from embarrassment when you step out on the sands.

Fortunately today's designers are adopting a more practical approach while creating a fantastic look that will make you feel truly confident and radiant, whether sunbathing or taking a dip in the sea.

This year, there has been a move towards trendier and more casual styles, including cross-over beachwear which allows a more flexible approach when deciding what to pack for your holiday.

For men, board shorts are flattering on almost everyone, taking their inspiration from vintage surf wear with their slightly more snug fit. Sporty shorts are best on the heavier side or very skinny.

For men and women, a T shirt or other loose-fitting top, a wide-brimmed hat and good quality sunglasses are essential to protect your skin.

The more skin that is covered by your clothing, the better the protection. Look for materials with a close weave.

Be aware that when some clothes get wet, they stretch and allow more UV rays through to your skin.

This is particularly a problem for cotton clothes. A wet cotton T-shirt may only offer half the protection of a dry one.

Hats are great for protecting the face, eyes and head.

When choosing sunglasses look for one of the following: the 'CE Mark' and British Standard (BS EN 1836:1997), a UV 400 label or a statement that the sunglasses offer 100% UV protection.