For many women, shopping for a new summer bathing suit is about as enjoyable as a
trip to the dentist. Jennifer Cermak is out to change that. The swimwear enthusiast
will open an outpost of her Minneapolis-based shop, Nani Nalu, in Boulder over
Memorial Day weekend.
Cermak has been operating Nani Nalu, which means “beautiful wave” in Hawaiian, for
10 years. Inside her bright, happy boutique, customers will find approximately 50
women’s brands, all known for their luxury, fashion-forward swimwear. Think:
designer pieces by Carmen Marc Valvo, handmade bikinis and one-pieces from
Columbia’s Agua Bendita (an exclusive), as well as Australia’s sporty Seafolly and
elegant Jets by Jessika Allen.
Walk-ins are welcome, but Cermak suggests making an appointment; this way, you’re
prepared to spend some time trying on suits. After reviewing your lifestyle and
travel destination, trained fitters will bring five or six suits in for you to
start with, and walk you through everything from how to wear them to how they do
(or don’t) flatter your figure. For example, Cermak recommends choosing a bikini
top that scoops underneath your armpit for a more sophisticated look (and better
coverage). For those who are planning on paddle boarding or jet skiing, she
suggests trying a sport-influenced suit that melds function and fashion. And for
those who want extra coverage, Cermak cautions that more fabric isn’t always more
flattering. Instead, pick a suit that emphasizes your best assets-and rock it!
At Nani Nalu, the fitters work with you until you find a suit you love (but no
pressure). Best of all, fitters receive emotional training, so they can sensitively
fit any age, body shape, or health challenge (like mastectomy patients) and make
swimsuit shopping a fun and stress-free experience. Check out some of Nani Nalu’s
offerings in the slideshow below.
