Stop Skinny Dipping Now: Where to Buy Swimwear

We still have a few days before the super-sweltering days are upon us, but it’s time to face the facts: Swimsuit season is here. You might think the hard part is working off that winter lard, but in Beijing, we have even bigger problems. Where on earth can we find chic, affordable swimsuits that fit us?

Unfortunately, our options are few and far between. While Beijing’s shopping scene has been on the rise in the past year, the swimsuit market has been slow to catch up. (Based on personal observation, cleavage and midriff are still largely taboo among the local female population. Current trends also favor keeping those parts of the body as pale as possible anyway.) We are lucky to have access to Western retailers, but their collections have been adapted to local tastes, limiting our selection even more than usual.

Still, we have no choice but to make do. You can start with our list from last year, but we also have some promising new additions.

Forever 21 has yet to open their Beijing store, which originally was planned for January. However, their e-shop has been up-and-running for a few months now, and shipping to Beijing is free when you spend over RMB 200.

The American fast-fashion chain store has just launched a mix-and-match sale, with tops and bottoms starting from RMB 28.90. You can choose from string or strapless tops, and string or hipster-cut bottoms. This is as classic (and as cheap) as it gets.

If you’re searching for something slightly more refined yet still within the same economic range, H&M always delivers in terms of design and price.

Floral print always comes back in vogue when spring rolls around, and this year is no exception. This bikini comes with built-in cups for extra shape and support – a perk for women of any size who want to enhance their bust.

String bikinis have become the classic style in spite of their skimpiness. If you’re feeling bold, this pair will offer minimal coverage but tons of texture – a winning combination on the beach.

Most men will shy away from shorter trunks, but for the fashion-forward, this pair will earn you serious sartorial points. They’re fun and in line with this year’s PJ trend – what more could you ask for? (Don’t forget to tan those thighs first.)

Zara’s branch at The Place reports that bikinis are on the way, but men’s trunks have already arrived.

Notice the length. Fellas, do you spot a trend here? Longer shorts are out, mid-thigh ones are in. I don’t think I’m alone when I say these trunks conjure up images of Don Draper. Can’t you see him wearing one of these?

For men stubbornly averse to showing off too much leg, you can always play it safe at the recently opened Hollister. Leave it to a California-based brand to produce the tiniest of bikinis and "manliest" of swim trunks.

Sometimes all-American fashion is the way to go. Looking like a sailor can also add youthful appeal, while the halter string top will emphasize your waist.

These are a great option if you don’t mind the logo. Very classic, very functional. The drawstring makes it easy to adjust, and if you’re shy about thigh, this pair ought to hit just above the knee.

Yashow Market is another safe option. Pickings are slim, with more speedos than trunks, but all your standard styles are there. Head to the third floor for the bulk of the selection. Stall 3220 has plenty of large sizes available starting from RMB 70 (before haggling).

Women’s monochrome string bikinis are RMB 150, available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including stripes and polka dots.

Zara's sister store Pull and Bear offers fun options for ladies wanting to play up their femininity.

The ruched detailing creates the illusion of a bust, and will distract from the fact that you might not have one.

If price is no obstacle and you have no fear of standing out, seek out Lane Crawford. The luxury department store may not have a wide breadth of options, but the few on hand are by cutting-edge designers (Stella McCartney, Hervé Léger).

Admittedly, you must be super-thin to be able to pull this off. But if you can, you'll be the envy of all those around you. While it leaves less skin exposed than most bikinis, this one-piece is just as sexy. Just beware the resulting tan lines.

An attractive one-piece is often hard to come by when it's not high-end; most styles look matronly and lack flair. American Apparel, while terribly overpriced in China, still carries the most reliable designs in this department.

If you have wide shoulders, this is a style you should avoid. For women with smaller chests and a little extra weight on them, though, this will do wonders for your body.

And there you have it. The above venues ought to get you on the right track. Other shops to keep in mind are Ladies Street, Zoo Market and Taobao.

Photos: Victoria's Secret, Forever 21, Hollister, Lane Crawford, American Apparel, H&M, Pull & Bear, Zara