Friday, December 11, 2009

Design

Today we had the honor of voting on some international package design competition submissions.  There were so many clever and innovative designs it was hard to choose a favorite!  What stood out for me though was the combination of colors and shapes.

Our 2010 Collection will be available next week, and I think it is the same situation.  We have some great colors and shapes this year. There are so many beautiful designs, it is going to be tough to decide on a favorite!

But to at least try to select a couple - as of today my top two favorites are:

1. Bridget, because I love how it looks - sophisticated, sexy, yet sporty


2. Bali, because I love the red stripe & black graphic combo - perfect! 

Thursday, December 3, 2009

A Matter of Pride



I’m going to go out on a Jerry Magquire limb here and suggest that if we want to create jobs in America it would be easily accomplished by having US based apparel companies make the commitment to move just a tiny portion of their production back to the USA.

I know all the arguments for moving production overseas, but am wondering in the Obama era why there couldn’t be a tax break for companies to make the adjustment to bring some of their production back to the USA. I am by no means suggesting that apparel companies forego the profitable international sourcing partnerships they have developed, I’m just thinking that even a 1-2% adjustment back to domestic production would keep tens of thousands of people who are watching their industry dry up remain employed and not really impact the bottom line at all.


Think of the goodwill it would create for those companies with people throughout America. Think of the people who would be able to come off unemployment and other social services we pay for. Think of the pride in helping our economy grow jobs and the income it would create.


There are lots of brands and companies that DO produce in the USA and without knowing it, we by buying those products have helped keep the apparel industry in the US alive. My hope is a subtle switch can get this industry that I love away from the abyss of extinction and back to thriving.


Donna Karan has been talking about this all year, probably longer – and I believe she is right. It is a sad thing to have a brand with strong US history produce 100% of the goods it sells elsewhere. I understand wanting a low price – hey, I’ve been seen happily shopping at Loehmanns, TJMaxx and even thrift shops, but it doesn’t replace my desire to help out our country’s economy with a small simple step.


Would I pay $2.00 more for a t-shirt made in the USA? Of course. And I have.  And if you say you wouldn’t, I ask you, wouldn’t you want someone to do something so small as pay a little more for something that would keep you employed?


We produce all of our dresses in the USA and are looking to expand our production further to help do our part.   It is a small step, but one we are happy to make.  That's why they aren't as inexpensive as other dresses you'll find out there, but we believe it is worth it.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Giving



We launched our new website yesterday.  There is a lot about it that I am really happy with, easier functionality, more imagery, fun videos.  But what I'm most excited about is that we have found a place to share with you our belief in corporate giving.

We believe everyone needs to give back in a way they are comfortable with.  For years now we have been recycling, and have even started using clean, reclaimed cardboard boxes that would otherwise be thrown out, for shipping.

But only in the last couple of years have we truly embraced corporate giving.  Yes, since day one we have given to Make A Wish, Susan B. Komen and to the LA Times Family Fund, all admirable and good charities.  But then we found Fashion Delivers.

What I love about Fashion Delivers is that companies don't just give money, they give product.  Product that people in need can use and wear.  There is a real loss of diginity when someone doesn't have anything to wear due to natural disaster, fire, or fleeing an abusive relationship to save their lives.  And while much of what we make and sell isn't something someone can wear openly down the street, we have been told through our contacts at Fashion Delivers that our product is greeted with just as much enthusiasm anything else they receive. 

When I first heard this, I really wondered why.  What does a bathing suit or cover-up offer to that person who is in the process of rebuilding their lives?  After some serious consideration, I think I finally have the answer.  Normalcy and Promise.  It is the promise of a normal life full of challenges, trips to the grocery store and maybe, just maybe, a trip to the pool or beach in the summer.  It gives them a glimmer of hope and something pretty to have that is not 100% function, something any fashion lover can relate to.

And so, we continue to give to Fashion Delivers.  We continue to feel good about our charity of choice.  And we are thankful that the products we love, Poko Pano, Lil' Bettie and Arabella can add a sparkle to someone's eyes when they might need it most.

Enjoy our new website.  And please, take a moment to check out the fabulous work Fashion Delivers does for people just like us, all over the country.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Vintage Swimwear - 1950's

After purchasing our first vintage 1950's swimsuit, we decided to do some investigating to see how swimwear has evolved in the past 50 years. Evident by the photo, swimwear has definitely come a long way! A typical bikini today uses less than a yard of fabric, and after examining the cumbersome materials on this suit we thought it was appropriate, as swimwear professionals, to delve in to the history of swimwear.


The first fashion swimming costumes, were structured around a corset with control panels that held in the stomach. There was also a bra cup and a zipper for closure in the back, which captured the fitted look. The suit was cut straight across the top of the leg, in a style resembling an apron. This beach corset was constructed using lined cotton, stretch Lastex, elastic ruched waffle nylon, and even wool. Comfortable right? Spandex wasn't even invented until 1958! Our brown and creme colored vintage suit is pretty stiff...we can't imagine how heavy it is when it gets wet!


1950's swimwear was also highlighted by Fred Cole, who convinced Christian Dior in 1955 to design a swimwear collection. Mr. Cole, once an actor himself outfitted Hollywood actress Esther Williams in all her movies. Cole was also president of Cole of California, one of the leading swimwear retailers of the time who also published swimwear ads in Vogue.


As for bikinis...they were still thought to be a little risque, in fact they were still banned from the Miss World competition. Although bikinis were gaining popularity throughout Hollywood, it wasn't until Bridget Bardot was photographed strolling the French Riviera in a bikini did they general public catch on. The bikini's attractive reputation quickly made it a hot item throughout the 1960's. Be sure to check out our next post which is all about the 1960's bikinis!


Interested in viewing one-of-a-kind vintage swimsuits from the 50's? Here is a great website that has an amazing selection, and each suit has a historical description!



















Thursday, September 17, 2009

Love Yourself Enough ~ Part Two


This is the second installment of the blog post I wrote about 'Loving yourself enough to CARE for yourself.'

The concept 'what you put into it is what you get out of it' came to mind when I wrote this. Your body can only be and do its' best when you give it the best fuel possible.


Love yourself enough to Eat Right

a. Give up Fast Food. Period. There is no such thing as healthy fast food. It is as empty a calorie as cookies and chips only with tons of fats, preservatives and fillers. You deserve better, so eat that way!! Shower yourself with fresh fruits, nuts, lean meats, fish, veggies, cheese (yes cheese!) and you won’t miss that nutritionally deficient fast food filler.

b. Clean out your cupboards. Like cleaning out your closet of clothes you no longer wear, cleaning out your cupboard of chips, cookies, cakes, pies, pretzels etc. will help you stay on track. Instead replace these nutritionally empty snack foods with better choices. Since no one is perfect, if you do get the urge to splurge, try to limit your intake of these types of foods to ‘special occasion’ single serving sizes – and try to eat just one.

c. Drink water or tea instead of juice, soda or alcohol whenever you can. By keeping your body well-hydrated, you are allowing it to operate with maximum efficiency allowing you to burn more calories and digest foods more efficiently. Hydration is crucial, but what you use to keep hydrated is just as important - fruit juices, alcohol and even soda are full of sugars that your body metabolizes as FAT. Diet soda is just as bad – it is all chemicals that still cause your body to read the artificial sweeteners as sugar that create FAT. Get bored of water and tea? Buy naturally flavored sparkling water, or buy plain and flavor it yourself with lemons, limes, berries, apples and other fruits.

d. Eat more foods that are plant-based. Fruits, vegetables and nuts, should be a big part of your daily menu. They taste best when they are freshest (even frozen is okay, just not canned – too many preservatives and sugary syrups). They make you full faster and help your skin, hair and nails look better.


e. Had enough on food changes? Not sure you can make them all? That’s okay, just do your best each day, keep track of what you eat and make sure each of your three meals (skipping meals equals a slow metabolism) include fresh fruits, vegetables and lean protein and no fast food or snack foods!

Friday, September 11, 2009

Love Yourself Enough ~ Part One




I was recently asked to provide tips for women who want to get or stay in shape through winter. I realized women don't really want more 'diet advice' or 'fitness tips' though I believe those tactics, when practiced regularly, do help women feel better about themselves, instead I believe women need to be reminded to love themselves enough to actually take CARE of themselves the way they deserve to be cared for. This is the first of the three sections I wrote about 'loving yourself enough to.....'



Love yourself enough to embrace your Assets

a. No one loves everything about their body. It’s true. Whether young, old, famous, infamous, thin, not-so-thin – EVERY woman has something about themselves they don’t like. Accept that this is okay and that you are not alone in your dissatisfaction about whatever body part it is, and you’ll feel better about yourself – truly you will.


b. Find one part of yourself you are satisfied with. Once you’ve made peace with your imperfections, it is kind of nice to also find at least one thing about yourself you like. It could be your toes, or your hair, or your waist or your shoulders, but find something and then focus on it. Lavish praise upon this part you like– and maybe slowly you can become friends with the other parts that aren’t your favorites.


c. Enhance the parts you like. Learn to dress to enhance the part or parts you like best. This is true at work, play, at the beach or in the snow. There are SO many designs and styles of apparel available, there is certain to be a dress, shirt, skirt or swim suit style that helps you enhance the parts you like so you feel better about yourself as you are today. Once you gain the confidence that comes from showing off what you like about yourself, deciding to take care of the rest of you seems only natural.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Summer is finally here!!

Like so many other places across the US, Summer along the beaches in Los Angeles this year has been almost non-existent.


With 'Autumn' now looming, last week Summer FINALLY arrived! Everyone has been dashing to the beach before school starts, or carving some beach-time out of their busy 'get ready for school' weekend schedules.


In the midsts of embracing these first beautiful days of Summer, fashion magazines and stores are full of Fall merchandise! It is so hard to get excited about looking at boots and sweaters when it is 90 degress outside. Particularly now that we are finally able to wear all the cute Summer clothes that have been hanging in our closet waiting for our 'June Gloom' to go!


Now that Summer is truly here, with day after day of glorious sunshine, clear blue skies and warm ocean water, all we can do is be grateful it came at all!


And sometime in late November, when summer finally winds down, it will be time to stock up on Fall and Winter clothes that will be on sale, because fashion magazines and stores will be trying to make space for Spring.


Its' a topsy turvy world of fashion, and nowhere else I'd rather be, except the beach!




Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Summer with Fall In-Store


There recently was an article about changing the fashion cycle to better match the weather, you know, so that when its' hot you can actually find cute warm-weather clothes, and when its' cold and you're in the mood to get a mid-winter fashion pick-me-up, it is actually something you can wear without going on a tropical vaction.


Seems like such a simple thing, but is rather like trying to move mountains.


I think the out-of-cycle fashion cycle is one reason why the internet has taken shopping by storm. The internet has NO season. You can find whatever you want, whenever you want and have it delivered right to your door. Shopping online takes away the spirit of the 'hunt' that so many of us love when shopping, but does make the whole experience easier if you are trying to find a pretty dress for an August wedding, or a bikini for the Pool Party you were just invited to by your crush.


Anymore, customer service for web-based shopping is great. Not only can you get a live person on the phone, but they often know what they are talking about and are able to help you with how those tough to fit items (like jeans & swimwear) actually fit.


Changing the fashion cycle to match how we consumers actually shop might take eons for traditional stores, but online it is already the norm. Living in California means warm weather begins in July and ends in October - online makes living here fashionably that much easier!


In honor of online shopping and buying in-season, we are offering 20% off PLUS free shipping on our website: http://www.pokopanoswim.com/ through the month of August! Use promo code: SUMMERSAVINGS!!




Thursday, July 23, 2009

Miami Madness!!!

Last week we were in Miami showing our 2010 collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and at the Miami Swim Show.
Miami is a great place to visit, unless you are there to work! That said, we still managed to have a little fun while working super-hard.

Number One Fun Event - Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Poko Pano Show!

We LOVED seeing our 2010 collection saunter down the runway!

Number Two Fun Event - After Party with 944 Magazine at the Gansevoort Hotel's Plunge Bar!

We LOVED the free drinks, great tunes and seeing our fashion show play on the wall and in the elevators at the hotel.

Number Three Fun Event - Seeing all of our friends, family and customers in Miami!

We LOVED hanging out with some of the best people in the fashion industry!
FINALLY, We are SO excited to bring you our Fashion Show VIDEO!!!!!
ENJOY!!!



Friday, June 12, 2009

Summer Fun!!


We are so excited at the office because we have TWO Amazing events coming up next week!

On Wednesday the 17th, everyone in our office is guest bartending at Sharkeez in Hermosa Beach (this is going to be SO FUN!). Plan on drink specials, gorgeous models in our beautiful bikinis (including two America's Top Model contenders), post cards worth an extra 20% off the purchase of Poko Pano suits AND the chance to win the Poko Pano suit featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition!

We are also having a Summer Sample Sale on Saturday, June 20th from 10am - 2pm at our office in Redondo Beach!! Suits are 20% - 50% off (with an extra 20% off if you get a discount postcard from our Sharkeez event!)......big savings and lots of fun just in time to kick off Summer!

Want more details? Check us out on Facebook:http://tinyurl.com/pokopano or read the amazing Hello, Pretty! blog ~ Hello, Pretty!: http://tinyurl.com/hellopretty




















Monday, June 8, 2009

Swimsuit Obsessed


Which bikini to wear?

One of the hardest parts about being obsessed about what you do for a living is actually deciding which bikini to wear to the beach. Since it was gorgeous on Sunday, we decided to go down to the beach for a few hours.

Deciding to go, and actually leaving, includes 15-20 minutes of bikini sampling before finding the right one for that day. Just like clothes, I have a whole wardrobe of swimsuits for every conceivable occasion: day at the beach, pool party, weekend in Vegas or Palm Springs, trip to Hawaii, weekend with parents. Even though I never wear everything in my collection, I love them all.

I picked this suit, Cherry Blossoms, for Sunday’s day at the beach because I love that this halter top is feminine yet has comfortable support. I am also a huge fan of our gathered hipster bottoms because they fit great and are super flattering.

We played a fierce round of paddle ball with no suit mishaps to report. Since this was the first time I've worn this suit, I immediately fell in love with it. A cute suit that stays in place when I am having fun at the beach is a keeper!

Monday, May 18, 2009

Summer Hair Care - A few EASY Tips!


This week we are lucky to have one of our favorite Hair Pros, Brian Hawkins, share some of his favorite summer hair care tips!!

Brian works behind the scenes at Fashion Shows in New York, LA and Miami and on magazine ad and editorial shoots! He works upfront and in-salon in Columbus, OH.
We have been fortunate to have Brian be a part of the Poko Pano Hair/Make-up Team for our Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Miami Fashion Shows!

Here are Brian's Easy Tips for Gorgeous Summer Hair!

Summer is all about relaxation and simplicity so why shouldn't your hair reflect that?

1. For your Hair Stylist: If you have color/highlights, the general rule is to go lighter in the summer (darker in fall/winter).

Going lighter doesn't always have to mean lightening your hair with bleach. Instead have your Stylist use 20 or 30 volume developer with a color/shade in the blonde family (generally levels 8 through 10) and place you and your gorgeous locks under the dryer for about 15 minutes.

This gives your hair a break from the chemicals that are harsher used in bleaching with foil highlights (regardless of what brand is used), it also saves time and gives your hair a softer more natural look as it grows out.

Plus your hair will lighten more in the sun so always keep that in mind!!


2. Regarding cutting and style: In my chair I'm noticing that my clients want simplicity in their cut but movement and versatility- so whether it's a short cropped cut or long hair at/past the shoulders - movement is the key.

Having more bounce and playfulness to your hair is modern and chic right now and perfect for the more casual days of summer!


3. Products: Remember less is more. I've suggested to clients to use at most a smoothing cream which helps reduce frizz and give shine and volumizing mouse- that's it.

Apply product in the back of the hair after your hair is shampooed and about 60% dry. Remember, we all have more hair in the back. If you apply product from front to back- as the day progresses - hair gets heavy and oily on top.
Instead, start product application from the back, then the sides and just smooth out the top with the product and only use a dime size amount of cream and an egg size of mouse.

Regardless of your hair type these two products will not be heavy and will give enough for what your hair needs which is moisture and body.

Finish your blow dry, style and use a light hair spray if needed.


4. Being in the sun: If you plan to be at the beach or in a pool a lot this summer, protect your hair! There are a wide variety of brands with products (typically sprays or a cream) that are formulated specifically to protect your hair so that the sun's rays don't damage your hair.

Apply before you head out for the pool or beach. Ask your Stylist what brands they suggest, or if you are shopping on your own, look for anything that says UV protection.

This prevents your hair from drying out, fading color and most importantly becoming damaged!


You can learn more about Brian and see some of his work at: http://www.brianchawkins.com/!!



In the Columbus Area?
You can find Brian at: Salon Lofts- Short North

909 N. High St. Columbus OH 43201 ph: 614-638-1599 http://matchstylist.com/tenants/service_and_price/2602

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Beach Ready Tip & Tricks - Summer Beauty



Beach Ready Prepping for the Big Day

You’ve been eating right and exercising a little more and you’re starting to see results. Good for you!

There are just a few key beauty tips we want to cover so you’re feeling confident as you sport your new bikini at the beach or pool this summer.

Beach Beauty Tips – less is more.

1. Bikini wax a summer must have. Being well-groomed makes wearing that bikini a much more comfortable experience. If you decide to do it yourself, there are some great do-it-yourself waxing kits out there. But for the price, having a pro do it right is p the best way to go.

2. Be sun-smart. Check your sunscreens from last summer and make sure they aren’t expired. If they are, head to your favorite beauty store to get more for this summer. Expired sunscreen doesn’t provide the protection your fresh from winter skin needs to keep from burning.

3. Be kind to your face. Spend some extra dollars on a sunscreen specifically designed for your face, neck and décolletage. The skin in this area is thinner, more delicate and more prone to showing the signs of sun damage (wrinkles!) earliest. Go with at least an SPF 30 (we all use SPF45 and up in our office). You’ll look younger longer – and who doesn’t want that? Invest in some fun hats, and you’ll be that oh-so-mysterious girl at the beach that every guy wants to meet.

4. The best tan is a faux tan. If you love the sun and having a tan like we do, why not start summer tan day one at the beach? There are some amazing sunless tanners out now that look natural, smell great and last. No one will know you didn’t jet off to the Caribbean for spring break except your closest friends (who will undoubtedly beg for your secret tanning source as soon as they see the new bronze you). Make sure to wear sunscreen though because sunless tanners don't provide you any sun protection.

5. Cellulite Sucks. There is no other way to say it. It is no woman’s friend. The best solution we’ve found – fatgirl slim from Bliss, it works wonders. Can’t swing a special cream? Apply sunless tanner. Somehow having those problem areas bronzed makes them look a little closer to beautiful.

6. Painted and Polished. Summer is the perfect excuse to get a professional pedicure. Treat your feet to a buff and polish and step into those cute summer sandals you've been dying to wear. Best way to save a pedicure from the rigors of sand, is to apply a good topcoat to your toes before you hit the beach. OPI makes a great one that's worth the price.

Next edition we’ll cover Beach Day Hair & Make-Up

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Beach Ready Tips & Tricks Part Two




Beach Ready Part II

The Girl Scout Cookies are gone, replaced with a few more fruits, vegetables, and salads. Soda and alcohol consumption is down with more water and tea taking their place. You’re trying to park as far away as possible to get those extra steps in throughout the day. What’s next on our ‘Beach Ready’ plan you ask?

We are big fans of small simple changes that over time, equate to big results, so bear with us as we suggest just a few more.


Eating Right: Small Changes

1. Give up fast food. Period. There is no such thing as healthy fast food. It is as empty a calorie as cookies and chips only with tons of fats, preservatives and fillers. You deserve better, so eat that way!! Shower yourself with fresh fruits, nuts, lean meats, fish, veggies, cheese (yes cheese!) and you won’t miss that nutritionally deficient fast food filler.

2. Clean out your cupboards. Like cleaning out your closet of clothes you no longer wear, cleaning out your cupboard of chips, cookies, cakes, pies, pretzels etc. will help you stay on track. Instead replace these nutritionally empty snack foods with better choices. Since no one is perfect, if you do get the urge to splurge, try to limit your intake of these types of foods to ‘special occasion’ single serving sizes – and try to eat just one.

3. Had enough on food changes? Not sure you can make them all? That’s okay, just do your best each day, keep track of what you eat and make sure each of your three meals (skipping meals equals a slow metabolism) include fresh fruits, vegatables and lean protein and no fast food or snack foods!


Exercise : A Few More Changes

1. Exercise 30 minutes a day 3 times a week. It is warming up, birds are singing, flowers are blooming; a perfect time to take your exercise routine outside! Even 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week can make a big difference in how you look and feel. Maintaining a healthy pace as you walk, jog or ride your bike will get your heart rate up and blood flowing.

2. Add some weight. No, not put on weight, but ADD weights to your workout routine. Muscle burns more calories than fat, so ideally you want to build as much muscle as possible to turn your body into a top notch calorie burner. Small hand weights of 3-5 pounds used regularly whether for bicep curls, lunges or squats make you work harder and help you build muscle as you burn calories. A powerful combination that really helps get you results.

3. Hate the idea of a ‘work out’? Get bored at the thought of the gym or weights? The key to exercise is to move your body for at least 30 minutes. Dance, swim, bike, hike, skateboard, roller skate, volleyball, tennis – the list of options is endless. Try them all till you find one or two you like and, as Nike says, ‘just do it!’ You’ll look and feel better in no time!


Next up, getting ready for your first beach day.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Beach Ready Tips & Tricks


The onset of Spring is always so exciting! However, most of us dread facing swimsuit season! This year we want to share some of our 'Beach Ready' tips and tricks so you can embrace swimsuit season with a smile!


Beach Ready Round One


Eating Right - The #1 way to look and feel better! Keep it simple with three tips:
A. Drink water or tea instead of juice, soda or alcohol
B. Eat more foods that are plants or grow on trees
C. Eat less food that is manufactured, processed and sold in boxes


Exercise - The #2 way to look and feel better! Again just a few simple changes:
A. Park as far away as possible from the entrance of where you work or shop and walk the extra distance to the door.
B. Take the stairs wherever and whenever possible.
C. Take breaks from sitting throughout the day; get up and walk around at least every hour.



Make these few small changes and see how you feel. We'll have more 'Beach Ready' tips and tricks in the next few days!

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Swimsuit Buying Guide - Swimsuits Deconstructed Part II


The final installation of our swimsuit guide covers the many types of swimsuit bottoms.
Some of the most common swimsuit bottom styles are described below:

1. Boy Short: Bottom that is usually cut low on the thigh and looks a bit like a boy's pair of short shorts. Flattering only on women with narrow hips and small back sides, this cut usually makes the back side look larger than it actually is.

2. Brazilian Cut: Bottom that is cut skimpier than a traditional hipster or double tie-side and shows much of the back side; offering less than moderate coverage. Can be found in Double Tie-Side, Hipster and Single Tie-Side shapes and is flattering on smaller women.

3. Cheeky: Bottom that is usually cut a little lower on the thigh than a traditional hipster or double tie-side but is slightly cut out in the back so the back side is not completely covered. A modern take on the Boy Short, this style is flattering on most women.

4. Double tie-side: Bottom that has strings at the hips on each side that tie. Ties can be thick or thin. A true double-tie side bottom does not have ties sewn in place. The most flattering bottom style as it is fully adjustable.

5. Hipster: Bottom that most resembles women's panties. Pulls on with no adjustment necessary. Sides can be thick or thin, can be high or low waisted, with rings or other embelishments. Best for women with smaller, narrow hips.

6. Single Tie - Side: Bottom that has strings at the hips on one side that tie. Ties can be thick or thin. A true single tie-side bottom does not have ties sewn in place. One of the most flattering bottom styles as it is adjustable.

7. Thong: Bottom that has very little fabric covering the backside. Recognizable because the fabric forms a Y shape in back and offers no coverage. Worn by only the most confident of women and usually at beaches outside the United States.

8. Tonga: Bottom is bigger than a Brazilian and smaller than a traditional Hipster or Tie-Side. Can be a single tie-side, double tie-side, hipster or cheeky bottom. It is usually more flattering than a Brazilian cut bottom.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Swimwear Buying Guide Continued


Swimwear Buying Guide Continued ~ The Swimsuit Deconstructed

As promised, we've taken a stab at describing all of the most popular swimsuit top styles out there. There are probably more, but these are the most common, and the most flattering.

Tops - Swimsuit tops come in a wide variety of shapes and levels of support. Some of the most common top shapes are listed below:

1. Bandeau: Single piece of cloth worn across the breasts. Can be with or without pads, twisted, ringed or smocked. Usually has a removable strap that goes around neck. Best for smaller breasted women as Bandeaus don't offer much support.

2. Demi-Underwire: An underwire top that is cut to allow more of the breasts to show. Usually has shoulder straps like a bra and is not padded.

3. Floating Underwire (aka Push-Up): An underwire top that has underwire suspended between pads and fabric so it does not show from the outside. Can be with or without push up padding. Usually has shoulder straps. Best for women who want more support or want to enhance their breasts. One of the most flattering top styles as it offers the most support.

4. Halter Top: An elongated triangle top that ties around neck and back. Can be with or without pads, fixed (sewn in place) or adjustable (moves on string that ties across back). Best for women who want more support and one of the most flattering top styles as it is fully adjustable.

5. One Shoulder (aka Grecian): A bandeau top with only one shoulder strap from front to back, creating an asymmetrical design. Can be with or without pads. Best for women who need little support.

6. Triange Top: Top made with two triangles that tie around neck and back. Can be with or without pads, fixed (sewn in place) or adjustable (moves on string that ties across back). Best for smaller breasted women who need little support.

Next post, we'll give you the low down on bottoms.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Swimwear Buying Guide


Swimwear Buying Guide ~ Swimsuit Styles


When gearing up for swimsuit shopping, it is helpful to know the terms that describe each style. By taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with each style and what body type they work best for, you can save yourself time and frustration by focusing your efforts on the styles that will work best for you.


Swimsuit General Styles


1. Bikini: A two piece swimsuit consisting of a top and a bottom. Stomach is revealed. Can come in a variety of styles, cuts and colors. Works for almost any body type as long as the woman wearing it is comfortable with it on.



2: Monokini: A one-piece swimsuit with cutouts on the sides and/or front. Partial stomach, side and back exposure. Works for women who want a little lower stomach coverage.


3. One-Piece: A sleeveless one piece suimsuit that has straps over the shoulder and covers stomach. Sometimes covers much of back too, depending on style. Works for almost any body type.


4. Tankini: A woman's two piece swimsuit consisting of a top that covers breasts, stomach and sometimes the back and usually a fuller coverage bottom. Works for women who want to cover their stomach but have difficulty finding one-pieces that are the right length for them.


Next post we'll go into more detail on the type of tops and bottoms that are available and who they look best on.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Price - Value Relationship

Everyone wants a deal - who can blame them when over the holidays no matter where you looked, everything was on sale. But now, it seems like what we all really want is an alignment of a products' price/value/quality that helps us feel good about making a purchase, instead of guilty.

If this is correct, then the need for swimwear that offers quality along with great fit, color, style at a reasonable price is stronger than ever. Not every swimsuit is the same, some - well most actually - are speedily made in China of fabric that isn't designed to last. If buying something that you'll have to replace after wearing it a few times (also known as disposable fashion) appeals to you, then these brands (and no, we won't name them here) are perfect for you.

But lets' say you care more about how you spend your hard-earned dollars, and that you want the swimsuit you buy to last more than one or two trips to the beach or one or two long weekends by the pool and still look great. If this sounds like you, read on!

1. Check to see where it was made. Not all countries are equal in their swimwear manufacturing expertise. Countries that consistently product quality swimwear include: Brazil, Columbia and even the USA!

2. Check how the fabric feels. If it is rough and scratchy, and doesn't immediately bounce back when you stretch it out - put the suit down even if you love it and move on. If the fabric is soft, thick and stretches and bounces back easily it is good quality fabric.

3. Check the quality of the print. Well made fabric can be found in solids and prints. Solid fabrics fibers are usually dyed before they are knit. Print fabric are usually applied to solid white fabric after it has been knit. A good pattern will not show any white when pulled or stretched. If the pattern you like shows white where there was color when not stretched - put it down and move on.

4. Check the quality of construction. A well-made suit won't have loose strings, crooked seams, snags, pulls, scratched hardware or cracked beads etc.

5. Check how the suit REALLY fits. A bikini or one-piece should fit you so well that you don't have to constantly adjust it when you are walking or moving normally. If you are adjusting here and there when trying on, that particular design may not be right for your body style. Of course if you love it, and have to have it (after confirming it is well made with good fabric) we understand. That is that passion for fashion all of us share!

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Beach Brain

Today in our neighborhood it is warm, blue skies and sunny! After all of our rain, it is beginning to feel like Summer really is around the corner!

It puts me right into Beach Brain mode, where the dream of calling in sick and going to the Beach kicks into high gear!
Sadly, I can't play hooky today, BUT, I can offer you 10% off your next Poko Pano purchase if you complete our survey.

Here it is:
http://tinyurl.com/affcwx

Thanks for letting us know what you think!

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

New York Fashion Week means its' almost SPRING!

When New York Fashion Week officially starts, and Fall Fashions hit the runway it can only mean one thing - Spring is almost here!

It may be cold and dreary, but in just a few short months, even shorter if you are lucky enough to be going on vacation, it will be Spring!

Longer days, warmer temperatures and flowers in the yard instead of snow also mean its' time to sort out what stays from last years' Spring and Summer wardrobe.

Despite the whole 'shop from your closet' mantra that is popular right now, we recommend you don't go there in a few key areas:

1. White tanks and tees - if they are stained, they've got to go (actually this applies to everything)

2. Anything too tight, short or faded - no one looks thinner when they are in something too tight.

3. Your swimsuit that is faded or stretched out - no one looks good in an old-looking swimsuit no matter how flattering it was when you first bought it.

Taking time to edit out the old and outdated from your Spring wardrobe will help you look your best, lift your spirits, improve your self-esteem and maybe even put a smile on your face - just in time for Spring!

Friday, February 6, 2009

Poko Pano Sponsors Surfet Competition

The inaugural edition of the Surfet Saltwater Sweetheart Board Fest amiably happens this Valentines Day, Saturday, February 14th, 2009 hosted at Coconuts on the Beach and the Cocoa Beach Skate Park. The line up includes Women and Girls Professional Surfing plus amateur divisions sanctioned by the AAU, Tandem Team, and Dudes in Drag, Kids Sandcastle building contest and beach games. The Cocoa Beach Skate Park will also open for the Girls Free Skate Session featuring Lea Taylor and music with DJ Longneck.

This Surf and Skate celebration benefits The Boarding for Breast Cancer (B4BC) a non-profit, youth-focused education, awareness, and fundraising foundation. The mission is to increase awareness about Breast Cancer, the importance of early detection and the value of an active life style. Go http://www.b4bc.org/ for more info.
Surfet is a girls surf company providing clinics, camps and events specifically for girls and women. For more information go to: http://www.surfet.com/

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Poko Pano February Deals!


Check out our February Deals of the Month!
Every month we discount a few 2009 Collection suits on our website, http://www.pokopanoswim.com/.
It only lasts a month, so check back every month to see which suits are selected.

*This month in the spirit of Valentine's Day we are offering our hottest pink and red bikinis!*