Before my recent vacation to Cartagena, Colombia, I searched high and low for a bathing suit that was different from anything I’d ever worn. I was tired of the typical triangle bikini, and I’m not a huge fan of one-pieces.
Enter Ashanti Swimwear’s Akua suit. I’d come across the Black, family-owned, London-based brand on Instagram; their colorful, African-inspired prints stood out in the crowded swimwear market. The Akua suit offered the perfect break from conventional styles, with its off-the-shoulder top and cutout, high-waist bottom.
What’s more—the suit is just plain sexy. I loved how it hugged the models’ curves, and had an intricate design without looking like a full-on contraption (and you know the suits I’m talking about!).
When my Akua arrived, I was surprised at how amazing the quality of material felt. I know I’m not alone in this—but so many of my bathing suits are flimsy and thin, so the thick sturdiness of the Akua suit was a welcome change. I was a bit worried about the arms’ functionality, though.
The off-the-shoulder style had attracted me, but I wondered low-key, Will I be able to move my arms and actually swim in this? I slipped both pieces on and they fit perfectly—which doesn’t always happen. I’m smaller on the top than I am on the bottom, so I often wish it were an option to buy two differently sized pieces. With the Akua, however, both top and bottom fit as if they were tailored to my body.
By the time I arrived in Cartagena, I was ready to flaunt my suit on the beach, by the pool and on the ‘gram. My first dip in the water felt amazing, and the suit’s arms didn’t restrict me. I got so many compliments from other sunbathers wanting to know where I’d gotten such uniquely designed swimwear.
It was exactly what I was looking for—an atypical suit that was beautiful and easy-to-wear. And the fact that the brand is owned by a Ghanaian sister-brother duo was a major plus for me. So if you’re looking for a super cute suit that’s functional, comfortable and will make heads turn, check out Ashanti Swimwear collection at ashantiswimwear.com.