Avoid Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny! How to Wear a Bathing Suit With Class on Business Travel

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o, you’re on a work trip, conference, meeting etc. It’s in a warm climate and you’re bound to see your peers, client, employees, or even executive team poolside. Do you REALLY want to see his or her butt or nips or chest hair? Probably not. As workplaces become less formal, the “rules” for this type of thing become fuzzier. Here are some tips.

 

Women

Go the one piece or tankini route. You’ll find so many great options that are both modest and flattering.

• If you need to bare a little skin, look for an option with small cutouts on the side or back, not the sexy neck plunge.
• Try a one piece in a bold print or pattern to add some excitement to your look.
• If your goal of having the perfect summer beach body hasn’t quite been achieved, you can choose from lots of great one pieces with added control for those spots you may want to minimize, like the one below.
• As for bikinis…just don’t go there.  On a Bleisure trip it’s important to remain professional, credible, and confident. However, for the leisure part of your trip, feel free to  throw in a bikini top to add to the bikini bottom for an easy transition.

Here’s an example of a style that looks good on almost everyone. If you’re concerned about your lower body, choose a suit like this with a skirt.

As for Cover-ups…

This is where you can really show off your personality and add coverage, comfort and style.  

This one, for example, is light to pack and one size fits all. If you have to have a casual business meeting with your boss, you won’t feel like you’re half naked. Plus, it comes in black and white! 

Men

Fortunately for you, in the men’s swimwear department you won’t find bikinis, tankinis, cheekiness, or cut-outs etc, which makes your job a little bit easier. You do still, however, have to consider that your supervisor, interns, or co-workers may not want to see you “in the flesh.”

Briefs or Speedo-style: Just like bikinis for the ladies, just don’t go there. You want people talking about the size of your brain, not other body parts!

Board shorts or trunks: This is your go-to option.  Look for solid or understated styles and stay away from crazy & distracting patterns, unless that’s consistent with your branding. 

T-shirt: Look for a lightweight tee shirt in a solid color with breathable fabric.  This can easily transition from from the pool to a drink at the bar with a colleague or connection made on the Leisure part of your trip!

 

More Tips

• Best time to shop for bathing suits: August, according to this handy guide to shopping for essentials.
• Manners tips for swimming laps, as long as we’re talking etiquette here!
• How to create an office dress code.

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