FASHIONTRIBES TIDBIT: Don't Just Go the Beach, Make a Grand Appearance. But Costumed, of Course, Like Miss Esther Williams, the Original Water Goddess Who Still Reigns Supreme. FASHIONTRIBES FASHION BLOG & PODCAST

PODCAST - FASHIONTRIBES TIDBIT: Don't Just Go the Beach, Make a Grand Appearance. But Costumed, of Course, Like Miss Esther Williams, the Original Water Goddess Who Still Reigns Supreme. FASHIONTRIBES FASHION BLOG & PODCAST - MP3 File

 

On a recent Vanity Fair cover, the femme fatales from the Desperate Housewives were posed like a posse of 50s bathing beauties in swim "costumes" straight out of a bygone era when glamazons like Esther Williams ruled the pool. Healthy, curvy and stunningly sexy, Ms. Esther gives great beach chic. To follow her example, think showing skin demurely rather than overtly (slight decolletage instead of full-blown Pam Anderson'esque cleavage & low cut legs), ruching in the right places, and, of course, accessories...lots & lots of accessories. And when you go for a dip, don a swim cap just like Esther used to - they not only look completely retro chic, your tresses will thank you in the long run.

Some options for channeling Esther Williams this season:

A timeless classy classic - from Esther-Williams.com

Glam white shades - a must! Bebe.com

Glamorous, ankle-strap wedges from Christian Louboutin - NeimanMarcus.com

Louis Vuitton Las Vegas Chain Necklace - eLuxury.com

  David Webb hammered gold hoop earrings - Vivre.com

  Nikki Guela gold mesh bangle - Net-a-Porter.com

David Gomez Diamond Shield Ring - BergdorfGoodman.com

Beach bunnies always give good coiffure - a Pucci hairscarf at Net-a-Porter.com

Before swimming, comb in some heavy duty conditioner & then slip on a swim cap - like this one completely fab one from Speedo that tips its, er, hat, to the 50s. Available at ParagonSports.com (via AndreaHarner.com)

- Lesley Scott

Fashiontribes Esther Williams Swim Fashion Fashion Podcast Swimsuit Pinup Fashion Expert