Would you wear a pair of sweatpants to a job interview? Or an evening gown to a baby luau? Then why are you considering wearing a ratty, threadbare tankini to your weekend beach soiree?

It’s obvious you need more suits, stat. Here are some hot new numbers by local up-and-comers. One of them will suit you (without a tee).


The Sweet Surf Spot
You want the boys’ respect, but you don’t want to be mistaken for a boy. Posh Pua swimwear is sexy but has serious staying power. You can rock out the full-coverage lace-up bodice without worry about coming undone. And the wide side bands on the Kahala bottoms will keep them put, but are cut to show off your…um… assets while you’re paddling out. Available at www.poshpua.com




When Water’s Optional
What do you get when you cross Brazilian sizzle with more universally-flattering American cuts? Maui’s Safari Blue swimwear. Lounge poolside in a teeny triangle top with long tie accents, styled to your mood. And the bottoms? They're cut to show just slightly less bottom than our South American sisters like to bare. Available at Hana Highway Surf on Maui or online at www.beautyandthebeachhawaii.com



For Locals Only
Inspired by vintage aloha shirts and classic island prints, O‘ahu-based Kikidoll Swimwear is hand-painted and designed locally. The coconut shell and coral accents, feminie, lingerie-inspired cuts and the classy cuts make these suits especially sweet and demure. Available at www.kikidollswimwear.com