Photograph courtesy of Lori Coulter
It’s that time again, that season of discontent when women must face their deepest fear and stand in the unforgiving light of a dressing room and stare into the mirror at what winter has done to them—in my case, the effects of months of skipping the gym matched with pale, dry skin—before figuring out how to make themselves look good at the beach. That’s right, it’s the process known as bathing-suit shopping. Isn’t there a way to make this experience less painful?
When I heard about Lori Coulter’s TrueMeasure personalized swimwear, I began to think it was possible. Instead of trying on several bathing suits that didn’t fit quite right, I could just be scanned to create a custom-made cut that’s perfect for my body. The system uses a scanning technology developed at MIT to measure the entire body in less than 12 seconds and produce an incredibly accurate 3-D model of it within 60 seconds.
Like many other women, Coulter always had a horrible time searching for the perfect bathing suit, so she wanted to provide a service that would allow women to “express their own personal style, know they look their best and be proud of their body.”
I made my appointment to visit the 3-D scanner at Macy’s in Chesterfield Mall (the only location in the country with the machine), which I imagined would resemble a CAT scan in the middle of a department store. I was greeted by a very friendly woman who led me into a dressing room–turned–private quasi-spa with lime décor and white robes. Once I changed (to increase the scan’s effectiveness, you slip into flesh-colored undergarments they provide), I made my way into the dark and comfortable room where the scanner made a few flashes over my figure in a matter of seconds. Then boom, out popped the results: a model of my body type formed from 250,000 to 400,000 coordinates.
Next, I filled out a questionnaire that asked about my lifestyle, what I’d like to emphasize or hide, my skin coloring, daily outdoor activities, etc. Much to my surprise—not to mention my relief—going over the results was not like a Weight Watchers meeting; there was no discussion of inches or weight of any kind. Instead, I sat down with the consultant as she suggested certain flattering styles for my “H” body type (glad to see “pear shape” and other disparaging terms were nonexistent!).
After I determined the style, the suit really became my own creation; the color, fabric, straps, hardware, lining and trim were all up to me. The cost of the entire process, including the suit itself (very impressive construction, by the way) and alterations, is $225—a little more than I’d normally pay for a swimsuit, but considering the end result, it was more than worth it. What a perfect way to start the summer.
Coulter's Tips for Painless Swimsuit Shopping
- The neckline is crucial! Choosing a neckline that suits your body is the first step in achieving the perfect look. A deep V halter can soften broad shoulders and draw attention to your upper torso, while shirring can do wonders for a small bust! Also, surplice styles help define the waistline and create an attractive neckline silhouette.
- Don’t forget the swim dress. You can divert attention away from full hips and thighs with this sophisticated style. In fact, a swim dress could be one of the best investments you ever make: It’s a functional cover-up during the day and a stylish dress for a beachside dinner on a breezy evening. But keep in mind that more fabric is not always more flattering; a skirted suit can make you appear larger, as if you are hiding under a tent.
- Two-piece suits are no longer just for twentysomethings. Tankinis are among the best-selling suits and provide both the convenience of a two-piece and the coverage of a one-piece. By using a dark bottom and color or a pattern on top, you draw attention to the face or torso.
314-727-9879, 49 Chesterfield Mall, loricoulter.com
