Bathing Beauty

Vintage lingerie, pants and bathing suits are way below my radar. Anything which has been worn that closely to someone else's crotch just ain't my bag. But there's an exception to that rule, if it's brand new with the tag still attached I'll take it. That's why I'm loving this never worn vintage Brigitte Bardot Bikini. Most likely sourced either from dead stock, which is typically boxes of unsold merchandise packed away in some old factory, or from a clothes hog who made a purchase and packed it away. Gotta love it! ($98)

Flower Power

Flower petal swim caps first became popular during the 1960s. Remember those old saccharine sweet Doris Day movies? She always wore a modest one piece bathing suit and flower bomb swim cap just like this one to protect her dye job. Women with relaxed hair may also be reluctant to enter a pool without protection for an expensive hair do. Keep your locks dry with a guaranteed hit at the pool party; also available in white, blue or rainbow-coloured. ($53)

Petticoat Junction

It may be late in the season, but the beaches are still open and the temperature's still high. So take advantage of all of the summer sales, like this white eyelet skirted bikini, marked down from $168 to $50 at Free People. A sexy combination of demure meets provocative, the hot pink lining peeks through the eyelet.

Yellow Polka Dot Bikini

This fully lined retro-style bikini is a definite head turner. Your admirers won't be able to stop humming the tune to the famous song. A large gold center ring holds the bandeau top together. The hipster cut bottoms are gathered on each side with convenient drawstrings; show a little or a lot, it's up to you. Add Ray-Ban sunglasses, a floppy hat and plenty of sunscreen for beachy keen perfection. ($148)

Complete Bum Coverage!

I love vintage style, but bathing suits are best worn new. That said, get the classic glamour girl silhouette with this sexy cherry print swimsuit, and an added bonus of FULL BUM COVERAGE! What more could you ask for (besides SPF)? This vintage style bathing suit is only $98, from Urban Outfitters. Considered daring in the 50s for lack of material; today's miniscule Brazilian bikini — and wax — makes this suit is practically demure. Get it in solid black or pink with white polka dots too.