Ride the New Wave of Swim Fashions

It’s almost winter. The wind is howling outside the window, the snow is piling up outside the door, and people’s minds are on… the beach? It’s true. Once the coziness of “sparkle season” fades and the New Year’s confetti has been swept away, there’s not much else to do but look with hope to warm, sunny days. Whether there’s a tropical vacation on the calendar, or a simple desire for escape, it’s not unusual for folks to take a trip to the local mall or boutique – or to browse the ‘net – for the latest beachwear.

Surfing culture has contributed a great deal to modern swimwear, particularly among children’s wear designers. Kids are active, adventurous, and energetic, so they often need beach clothing that’s strong and durable. Kids are style-conscious, and want their clothing to project their laid-back cool. For all these reasons, surf-wear companies like Hang Ten Gold, M.N. Bird Co., Coral & Reef Beachwear, and Sand Dollar are all great choices for the little kahuna.

Hang Ten Still Rides the Fashion Wave

From California’s legendary surf tradition comes Hang Ten Gold, a clothing line that goes back to the early days of American surfing culture. It was 1960, and a young man named Duke Boyd needed some tough, durable clothes that would stand up to the rough-and-tumble ocean. On a whim, he decided to sew his own pair of swim trunks from a nylon material, and Hang Ten was born.

The little pair of feet that became the brand’s logo represents the Hang Ten, the sport’s most difficult and sought-after move. In this tricky stunt, the surfer hangs his toes over the front of the board while a wave crashes over the back of the board.

Hang Ten’s look is the epitome of casual California style. Kids will look hot in the iconic clothes, but will also have ease of movement to let off steam on the beach or in the backyard. In addition to surf wear, they also offer pants, tanks, shorts, and sweaters that are cool, comfortable and laid-back. These pieces look right at home on the beach or strolling down the street to a favorite family restaurant or park.

After 54 years in business, Hang Ten Gold label is keeping up with the latest styles, while still keeping the surfer dude heritage alive: www.hangtengold.com

M.N. Bird Swimwear: Just Add Water

New York isn’t known for its surfing, but it is home to millions of beach-lovers. Each year, Big Apple residents fly to vacation spots where they can catch some big waves and take a break from the hustle-bustle of their everyday lives. Of course, being New Yorkers, they want their families to look stylish wherever they go, so they head to M.N. Bird Co..

Sisters Liz and Mary Naples have been running this children’s beachwear company, since 2001. Their warehouse is located in the high-end upstate tourist town of Saratoga, NY and offers a collection of classic swimwear in bright, water-ready colors. There’s plenty of variety, so kids can express themselves with their own looks while they’re enjoying the sun and sea. Offerings include one-piece suits and long shorts that are suitable for surfing and other athletic beach activities.

The inspiration for the company was Mary’s baby daughter Lisa. When Lisa came along, Mary, an art teacher, began exercising her crafty talents by making her little girl special clothing and accessories. When people started showing interest, Mary and Liz began selling the cute baby items, and their business took root from there.

After 13 years in business, they continue to make a splash: www.mnbird.com

Coral & Reef Beachwear Captures the Island Spirit

As adults, many of us are familiar with the challenges of finding the perfect swimsuit. The right cut, fit, color scheme and sizing are important for those who want to look their best and feel confident on the beach or around the pool.

Kids of course have it a little easier, but that doesn’t mean swimsuit shopping for them is always a breeze. Many parents are dissatisfied with how revealing some kids’ swimsuits are, and would prefer more modest options that are appropriate for both swimming and other summertime play. Also, as kids become tweens, they often face some of the same body concerns as adults do, and become more choosy about the types of swimwear they will accept.

Coral & Reef Beachwear offers a great variety of swimsuit options in a range of styles and coverage levels. Whether a customer is in the market for one-piece, two-piece, shorts or swim tops, Coral & Reef has it covered. The company is located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, so it’s very surfer-friendly. Board shorts and long-sleeve surf tops for boys and girls are perfect for catching some waves and also provide sun protection during other outdoor activities. All pieces feature eye-catching prints like Hawaiian flowers or geometric designs in bright, bold colors.

Showcase the island spirit with collections from www.coralreefsurf.com

Sand Dollar Makes Sense in the Sun

UV-protected clothing is the new must-have product for those who are mindful of the harmful effects of the sun. This type of clothing is made of special material that filters out burning rays to help prevent short and long-term skin damage.

Sand Dollar swimwear is a UK-based company that offers UV-protected clothes for kids. Their fun, comfortable collection features beach, ocean, jungle and tribal themes in cool, up-to-the-minute designs. The entire collection is quick-drying so it can be worn in the water, but not every piece looks like a typical bathing suit or swim trunks. Because the line provides more coverage than your typical swim gear, there are many options that can easily go from beach to boardwalk and back again with ease.

Sand Dollar’s founder, Maureen Dolan, has fought her own fight against skin cancer and wanted to do whatever she could to protect the next generation. As a mom and a clothing designer, she was able to create a collection that is as stylish as it is functional.

She’s proud that Sand Dollar is now among the most popular of its kind and hopes that more kids embrace the slogan that they’re “Too cool to burn.” www.sanddollarswim.com