Swimspotting

Every year when it starts getting cold, I start fantasizing about escaping to a tropical island (yes, I am aware I live in Los Angeles and that I'm spoiled with beautiful southern California weather!). So when Lucky magazine asked me, as one of their Lucky Style Spotters, to review online swimwear boutique Swimspot.com, I eagerly said yes. In my mind, I was already halfway to The Maldives.

I browsed through the site, sifting through a selection of designer swimwear from brands such as Ella Moss, St. John, Splendid and Tommy Hilfiger. Navigating through the collection was straightforward - the site's streamlined layout and extra large images were certainly a plus.

Next, I tried Swimspot's Fit Specialist program. The site offers a team of Fit Specialists who are devoted to providing personalized fit support based on each customer's taste, preferences and body type. They're reachable by one-on-one appointment via phone or e-mail. I corresponded with the lovely Nikki, who fired off e-mails to me asking specific - yet discreet - questions about my shape, age range, trouble spots and more, eventually sending me a list of carefully curated swimsuits tailored just for me. I was pleasantly surprised by her spot-on selections; each piece was something I would have chosen for myself, including this Splendid one-piece suit and Luxe by Lisa Vogel Couragette bikini top!

Next, I tried the Bikini Builder, a tool which allows customers to mix and match from a bunch of swim separates. I loved how easy it was to experiment with different combos and watch as they instantly appeared on the model. I only wish the site offered more separates to choose from!

I also made sure to check out Swimspot's 2011 collection, full of cute, colorful pieces like this Guess floral print monokini. I love the site's variety of styles; rather than just selling standard two-piece bikinis, they offer plenty of swimsuits with cool, unique cut-outs and shapes in eye-catching patterns.

All photos courtesy of Swimspot.com.

Now that this week's weather forecast has spelled rain for Los Angeles, I'm sure my mind will wander to faraway sun-soaked islands. At least now, thanks to Swimspot, I'll be appropriately dressed for my imaginary getaway!