Vancouver indie boutiques for stylish swimwear
While shopping for swimwear may not be everyone’s idea of a good time, it does signal the start of beach, lake and pool season or perhaps the upcoming tropical holiday you’ve booked to escape the winter doldrums. Make the experience as painless as possible at any one of these local boutiques where you’re sure to find the perfect fit. You’ll be made in the shade (or sun or water).[Photo credit: iStock.com/ gradyreese]
Anna Kosturova
509-55 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1A1Conceived and designed in her Vancouver studio and manufactured overseas by expert artisans, Anna Kosturova’s swimwear lines are exotic, sexy and one of a kind. Using crochet and tie-dyed textiles, these aren’t necessarily the most practical of bathing suits, but they look stunning while you’re sunning and are adorable paired with cut-offs and sandals while strolling the beach or hanging poolside. Her gorgeous resortwear line — tunics, maxi dresses, caftans — are also perfect summer cover-ups. Visit her online shop to place your orders.
Just Cruisin' Swimwear Boutique
890 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2L2This downtown swimwear mecca has the biggest selection of bathing suits in the Lower Mainland. Whether you’re looking for a workout suit in the perfect flexible, comfortable fit or more of a fashion statement — from one-piece to string bikinis or somewhere in between — Just Cruisin’ can accommodate your style and body type. Carrying a range of sizes, as well as mastectomy suits, suits for those with long torsos, kids’ suits, designer labels and a selection of men’s trunks, board shorts and briefs, this BC-owned and operated shop has you covered — if only just a little bit.
Cuchè Bikinis
5389 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 2V5Another made-in-Vancouver swimwear designer, Cuchè makes bathing suits and bikinis that are both sporty and stylish. With many looks that provide coverage while still being playful and sexy, this line is perfect for the woman who’s not afraid to get in the water but wants to look good while doing it. Fabric in original colours like moss green, charcoal, rose and midnight blue are a far cry from over-the-top, attention-grabbing neons but will still help you to stand out on the beach in style. Check local boutiques Dream, Oliver & Lilly’s and Paradise for the Cuchè label.
Swimco
630 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1T0The very attentive staff at this major Canadian swimwear retailer are more than happy to spend a good chunk of time with you as you — with their help — locate the perfect swimsuit. With loads of styles and brands available, as well as a huge array of accessories like cover-ups, goggles, sun hats and even waterproof weights for your aquacise sessions, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for, whether you’re planning serious laps, your next cruise or simply skipping through the sprinkler.
Heiress Swimwear
25 66 Avenue, Langley, BC V4N 5S2Vancouver-based Heiress strives to give women a designer swimsuit experience without the designer prices. Original, strappy and seductive, these suits are not for the faint at heart — and with names like Dominatrix, Scandal and Addicted, you get a sense of the daring designs on offer. These are well-made, high quality suits in unique styles that will make you feel like a Hollywood starlet and definitely have people turning heads.
gravitypope Tailored Goods Vancouver
2203 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6K 1N9This Kitsilano boutique might be known for its stellar footwear collection, but come summertime the racks are also stocked with made-in-Canada swimwear from Vancouver’s own Beth Richards. Her coveted suits feature stretchy, durable Italian fabrics and are engineered for athletic pursuits and boast 50+ UVB sun protection. And while these contemporary designs are functional enough for a wet-and-wild day out, they’re also seriously fashionable. High-waisted retro bikini bottoms, chic one-pieces with mesh cut outs, and playful patterned suits will have you looking like the belle of the beach.
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