Great swimwear tips from Jersey fashion blogger Alicia Gibbs of Chicha Fashion
Today’s edition of SwimTalk is an interview with spunky New Jersey fashion blogger Alicia Gibbsis. She’s a true budget fashionista, who’s crazy about style on a budget, affordable fashion and always on the lookout for the next great deal. She dresses with a very chic yet accessible sense of style. She’s the founder of the NJ Latina Bloggers and Metropolitan Latina Collective. And if that’s not all she’s also an amazing mother and loving wife. Her daughter Naliya seems to have the same affinity for fashion. Check out her hip fashion blog called Chica Fashion for your own outfit inspiration.
1) What drew you to the world of fashion?
I would have to say my mother, she has always been very image and fashion conscious and such a savvy shopper. I would also say that 80′s/90′s movies like Dirty Dancing, Grease and Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead.
2) As a fashion loving mother of two how do you find the time to manage both passions?
Since the children are still little I get to dress them how I wish so in essence I am their fashion stylist, I would hands down prefer for them to look good over myself so I always dress them first. If there is enough time then I go ahead and doll myself up if the occasion calls for it. In the end I simply just want to look and feel good and to me there is no way to do that then by being fashionable.
3) What do you think about apparel shopping online vs. shopping in an actual store?
I truly prefer both I think that shopping online with a brand you currently own is bests this way you’re already familiar with the sizing and fit. The good part about going to an actual store is that sale & clearance prices are slightly cheaper.
Alicia is great when it comes to finding affordable fashion
4) Any advice for online swimwear shoppers?
Pay close attention to measurements and pull out your measuring tape if you have to because a too small suit is ill fitting and a too big suit can be a ticket for accidents.
5) How many swimsuits do you own?
Definitely more than 10
6) What is your favorite style of bathing suit?
After having kids I prefer something with more of a high waist. It conceals and is very retro chic. But cheeky bottoms are always a favorite. They are slightly sexy without being too inappropriate.
7) How often do you get a new swimsuit? And how often do you recommend getting new pieces?
I may purchase one at least every summer even if it is just a new top and I won’t toss them out until they are falling apart.
8) What swimsuit styles do you think will be in this season why?
I think retro suits, high waist bottoms and corset/ crop tops are really popular right now
With a fun unique sense of style, Alicia is a great blogger to follow.
9) Who is your favorite swimsuit designer and why?
Most of my swimsuits are Victoria’s Secret but I have from all over
10) What are your favorite beach or poolside accessories?
Sunglasses and a nice big towel
11) Does where you are headed determine what swim outfit you would wear? Would beach wear be different from pool wear be different from resort/cruise wear?
Yes definitely, If I am headed to a water park or the beach I want something with more hold and coverage to prevent any accidents. For resorts I like to go with more embellishments I feel the occasion calls for it.
12) Describe your perfect poolside outfit.
If I could design or put together my own suit it would be a corset top and high waist cheeky bottom all my favorites in one!
13) What advice do you have for finding the ideal swimwear?
If you prefer a two piece then mix and match to tailor the swimsuit to you, If a one piece is what you like make sure hold and fit are correct.
14) Many women and young girls often feel insecure when it comes to wearing a swimsuit. What advice do you have for them to strut their stuff and put on their swimwear with confidence?
Many times they say summer bodies are made in the winter and they are referring to diet and exercise however that doesn’t have to be the only focus apart from generally feeling good about yourself there are other things you can do to prepare yourself for swimwear. You can, exfoliate, wax, tan, get a pedi and mani all things that will make you look and feel better in turn giving you more confidence. Also to keep in mind that everyone has their insecurities and is fighting their own battles, no one is perfect but everyone is beautiful.
Check out our previous SwimTalk interview with Miami Fashion Blogger Martha Dominguez creator of the blog Princess Martha.