I hate swimsuit shopping. There is nothing worse than exposing my pale Portland body in a tiny changing room lit with shocking fluorescent light. Any chance that I thought that I would look beach or pool ready goes completely out the window when I see myself in that dressing room mirror. I usually flee the premises and head to the nearest Krispy Kreme to eat my feelings.

Well, I am happy to report that my last few Portland swimsuit shopping expeditions have been well, quite lovely actually. A gal pal of mine told me several years ago about Popina Swimwear and I have been a fan ever since. The shop itself is completely adorable, with a retro tiki vibe. They have an amazing collection of very flattering swimwear (checkout the super sexy Jantzen Vamp to the right) and, best of all, they can CUSTOM make a swimsuit for you! How cool is that? They will take your measurements, you will discuss fabric, color and style, and voila! A couture, retro swimsuit for sweet little you! They specialize in retro styling and swimsuits of the 1940’s and 50’s, and I happen to think that they are incredibly flattering!

Do yourself a favor: next time you are shopping for a suit, stop into Popina for some fun. No pale Portland body deserves the fluorescent shock treatment. It’s just cruel, people.