Bellevue Shops

The swimwear of the 50’s is making a strong comeback. The shoulders and legs are highlighted in this swim silhouette since the abs and torso are covered. A body in a 1 piece is surprisingly sexy to many since the bikini has become standard swimwear. Instead of darting eyes to the top and bottom of a brightly colored swim suit, the attraction in a 1 piece bandeau is found in the curves from the bust to the waist, ending the female shape at the hips. The bandeau 1 piece is now featured in neutral or black–classy colors that bring a fresh blast from the past.

Gap Essential One Piece – $60

Gap Essential One Piece

With a halter strap, this bandeau suit will not accidentally fall off. It is simple and thin, no frills whatsoever in the design. Comes in 3 colors: triumph black, minty teal, and demre. Pick up a simple suit at the Gap on the 1st floor of Bellevue Square.

J. Crew Solid ruched bandeau tank – $80

J. Crew Solid ruched bandeau tank

This version has a removable halter strap included. The boning in the suit creates support for activities on the beach. Available only online at Jcrew.com. Comes in 7 colors: black, bright pacific, brilliant navy, deep brown, jungle green, bright berry, and cerise.

Nordstrom Gottex “Black Magic” Bandeau One Piece – $168

Nordstom Gottex "Black Magic" One Piece Bandeau

This bandeau has a large floral graphic on the front. The Gottex Black Magic Bandeau also has a removable strap, boning, and soft cups. Visit Nordstrom’s swimwear section at Bellevue Square for a closer look.

Macys Jantzen Ruched Vamp One-Piece Swimsuit – $100

Jantzen Ruched Vamp One-Piece Swimsuit $100

The bodice is sweet-heart shaped in this version of the ruched bandeau. Jantzen Ruched Vamp One-Piece is sweet and sensual. Jantzen made the some of the first one piece bandeaus from the 1950’s.

Victoria’s Secret > Carmen Marc Valvo Bandeau One-Piece – $172

Victoria's Secret> Carmen Marc Valvo One-Piece Bandeau

Although sweet heart shaped, this version of the one-piece bandeau is not so innocent. By Carmen Marc Valvo with cups and soft side ruching.

The ruched sweet heart shaped versions of the one-piece bandeau are classy and timeless. For a more modern minimal style, go for the simple straight bandeau top without the sweet heart neckline.

Dear Vivienne,

I will be going on vacation in Hawaii in a week. As a mother of 2 young children (ages 6 and 8), I need a large bag that will hold sunblock, water bottles, a camera, band aids and anything my kids would need. I don’t want to look like a frumpy tourist–more like a leisure vacationer. Is there any bag you would suggest?

Thanks,

Marta

Dear Marta,

A large structured canvas tote will bring style and ease to your vacation. I suggest canvas since it is much lighter than leather and you won’t have to worry about keeping it in good condition. Canvas is a strong and stiff fabric that provides structure–which will eliminate the frumpiness tourists are notorious for achieving. Here are some options:

J. Crew Canvas Boardwalk City Tote – $68

This canvas bag is very structured with hard seams. The leather handles make sure the wear and tear on from traveling does not show on the bag. The bag is wide making it easy to access things you need on the go. The Canvas Boardwalk City Tote comes in 4 colors: Natural (white), Whethered Stone, Papaya, and Neon Green. It measures 10 1/2″H x 13 1/4″W x 7″D. You can pick this up at the Bellevue Square J Crew on the second floor of the mall.

Banana Republic Striped Eco-Chic Tote – on sale! $39

Banana Republic Striped Eco-Chic Tote

The BR Striped Eco-Chic Tote is less structured and a bit smaller. The lightweight cotton makes the bag easy to pack and light to carry. Made from hemp–an environmentally friendly material. The stripes are also easy to match with many outfits. Pick it up at BelleSquare’s Banana Republic. Measures 16″ x 16″ x 3″.

Gap “the New Tote” – $39.50

The New Tote is structured with a bigger bottom and smaller top. This allows your carried items to be secured and still gives room for much storage. A small leather pouch comes with every bag. Available in 4 different solid colors and 3 floral print colors. Available at the Gap on the first floor of Bellevue Square

Lacoste “New Summer” Shopper Tote – $105

The “New Summer” Shopper Tote expands and contracts–this bag will look good whether you are carrying a blanket, or a few small items. The versatility and strength of the canvas make this bag a great choice for vacationers. Comes in 3 colors at Macy’s Bellevue Square. The Lacoste store on the first floor level may have other color options. Measures 18″ W x 11″ H x 5-1/2″ D.

Tory Burch “Chrissy” Canvas Tote – $275

Tory Burch Chrissy Canvas Tote

The ultimate balance between structured style and functional ease is the Tory Burch “Chrissy” Canvas Tote. The bold Tory Burch logo expounds the emphasis of style and class. This bag is functional for any fashionable mother. Dimensions 19 1/2″W x 18 1/2″H x 6″D; 9 1/2″ strap drop. Available at Nordstrom in Bellevue Square.

I have provided a selection of canvas totes available for you to choose from at various price ranges. Hope you find one suitable to your tastes and needs. Happy shopping!

Vivienne