Answer Angel: Swimsuit shopping

Ellen Warren, Tribune News Service on Jun 17, 2025

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Dear Answer Angel Ellen: Are there any modest swimsuits made for women with flat derrieres? I find it a challenge to find one.

--Anna C.

Dear Anna: The trend in swimwear is definitely going in the opposite direction of “modest.” A trip to almost any beach or pool will illustrate that swimsuit styles are trending to scanty. Very scanty. Body positivity has resulted in women of all sizes feeling comfortable in teeny bikinis and two-piece suits that show more flesh than ever.

But there is no reason for you to despair.

Today’s swimwear has more stretch than ever, so there are plenty of suits that cover but don’t bag in the derriere. This is especially welcome because many outlets, both online and in stores, sell tops and bottoms separately so you can mix sizes to accommodate anatomies that aren’t a standard size 8 or size 18.

Since you are looking for a swimsuit that will camouflage your flat posterior, you are in luck because swim skirts (from very short to almost knee length) can flatter the flattest rear end. Buy a matching or contrasting top in the same style and you have a combo that looks like a modest one-piece but has a custom fit.

Buying a swimsuit online is a welcome option for those among us who do not have the courage to take 20 swimsuits into the harsh lighting of a store’s dressing room and stare at our imperfect selves. But be sure to check the return policy when you shop online because sizing is very hit or miss.

Lands’ End (landsend.com) and L.L. Bean (llbean.com) are just two of the many websites that sell modest swimwear in one- or two-piece versions that can work for you. Readers: Let’s hear about your favorite sites for flattering swimwear that will suit Anna’s needs.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: On a recent dinner trip to a medium-expensive Italian restaurant, many men looked like they had just come from a baseball outing, which kills me. If I’m going to spend $40 for a pasta dinner, I would like to feel that my fellow diners would at least put on a button shirt and some decent pants.

That’s my rant but here’s my question: Is it OK to tuck a napkin into my white shirt collar to protect against sauce splatters, which seem impossible to avoid. I’ve ruined more than one shirt with red sauce in this way. And a nice light-colored sweater too was wrecked by my tasty Italian meal.

--Philip J.

Dear Philip: To avoid this problem, some restaurant patrons not only tuck a napkin in their shirt but ask for a second one for the lap to protect their pants. Same goes for women who want to protect dresses, blouses, skirts and pants. Call it preventive maintenance and go for it.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: Why is it impossible to find a bed jacket that doesn’t look like something my grandmother would have worn? I find heavy fleece or furry ones but never a lightweight one. Where can I find a modern style cover-up, not a robe?

--Mary M.

Dear Mary: I thought that the bed jacket had gone the way of the “peignoir” (a sexy nightgown popularized in the 1940s and before). And you’re right. They are hard to find.

My first thought was what’s wrong with a lightweight, pretty sweater, maybe in cashmere? But, if that won’t work for you, I finally found what you are looking for. It’s the Morning Breeze Bed Jacket (freepeople.com, $68). It is lacy, satiny, ties daintily at the neck, has flirty elbow-length sleeves, and is quite pretty and lightweight. It won’t keep you warm but it will cover your top half and comes in sizes XS to XL in light pink (parfait), black or deep royal blue. The online description: “Perfect for layering with made-to-be-seen intimates, this boudoir staple is a top-drawer must-have.” One more thing: You will find some actual vintage bed jackets in silk or satin on etsy.com and ebay.com.Angelic Readers

For your reader who was looking for a hostess gift for a family she is visiting in Europe, reader Paul J. writes: “We usually bring some candy made in from our area, Frango mints in the box with the Chicago skyline specifically." From Ellen: Frangos are delicious but they’re chocolate. I’d be sure to put them in double plastic bags in my carry-on.