bikini mania

Normally, I get really excited for bikini season in about February - and by excited, I mean depressed. I come to terms with reality (my love handles) and begin looking at Victoria's Secret's newest mediocre, at best, prints for Spring. I will admit that I own 20 too many VS bikinis, some never worn. The fact is that I just don't spend a lot of time in bathing suits anymore. For the last four years, I had college spring break, and beyond that, a handful of other instances where I got to enjoy summer + water. I am determined to change that this year.

Although you may realize that my most previous post was announcing my summer move to Chicago, they DO have water! I love informing my Chicago-native boyfriend that where Lake Michigan meets land is in fact NOT a beach (I have been a lifelong NC resident, known for the Outer Banks and other REAL beaches). I know that I win that argument, but nonetheless, the midwestern folks seem to believe that they are indeed on a beach shore. I can go along with this fluff for the summer, as long as the sun bronzing levels are not dramatically different from the South's.

In anticipation of summer, I have compiled some fabulous, non-VS pieces to get you beach- (lake or ocean) ready! To purchase any of these pieces or learn more, click the photo. That will direct you to my interest page, where one more click will take you to the source where the items are sold.

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Rope stripe top by Yves Saint Laurent

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Poncho Top by Shamask

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Maisey Floral Print Swimsuit by Juicy Couture

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Scoop Neck Cocoon Tee In Navy by Tylie Malibu

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Gold Collection Cosmo Deluxe Top In Marbella '72 by Vitamin A Gold/Prints

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Vitamin A Gold Collection Cosmo Deluxe Top In Mozambique

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Twist - Camel Blue by Carlos by Carlos Santana

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Diamond Crochet Talitha Tunic Cover Up In White by Vitamin A Gold

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Gold Collection Cosmo Deluxe Top In A-list by Vitamin A Gold/Prints

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Misty Cutoff Short In Yellow-preorder by DITTOS

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Odette Detail Brazil Bottom by Vix Swimwear

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Soho Chevron Top In Sahara Stripe by Vitamin A Gold/Prints

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Goddess Bella Bandeau In Magenta by Seafolly

Source: bit.ly via Elspeth on Pinterest

Betsey Bia Tube Full Bottom by Vix Swimwear

Source: us.asos.com via Elspeth on Pinterest

ASOS ruffle bikini

What are your favorite bikini brands or summer necessities?