Studio Blog

Each year the editorial team at Demand Media takes time to recognize our favorite article, writer and/or filmmaker of the year. An editor will reveal their pick each day in the blog and explain why that particular body of work stood out to them.

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“Bring on the fierce” couldn’t be a more fitting introductory sentence in an article written for the new Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion website.  “Fierce” was coined by model and entrepreneur Tyra Banks and is exactly what Dawn Levesque exudes in her article “How do I Choose a Nike Swimsuit?”

Showcasing exceptional content for Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion site has not been easy since the site has not launched publicly yet. When we started this new venture in Demand Media Studios, we didn’t just introduce a new property; we also threw in a distinct voice and style to boot--complete with a specific fun, casual tone and targeted sections that address the everyday women. Oh, and they must be useful, too.

Sounds difficult, right?

Well, Dawn catwalked her way to the top of my 2010 list with her inclusive tone and seamless injection of sass and wit representative of Tyra’s entertaining voice.

Dawn nails it with quips, such as “Don’t wait to uncover yourself until you jump into the pool because your suit bottom droops or it shows more cleavage than you desire …,” and “Hit poolside with confidence by highlighting your shapely assets in the right swimsuit.”  It is statements like those that exemplify the friendly, fun feel we are looking for in Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion articles.

She also exemplifies inclusiveness and the goal to engage women of all shapes and sizes by addressing various body types throughout the piece.  Dawn created sections: “Pears to Apples,” “Busting Out” and “Full Coverage.”  Then, she addresses how to find a Nike swimsuit for each body type and concern by providing insight for each. A suit with high-cut legs that slims down thighs and hips works well for pear shapes; Nike’s racer-style suits are better for ladies with larger bust lines; and Nike’s Swim Signature halter tankini with high-waist brief is more suitable for women with a “bootylicious backside.”

At the end of the day, Dawn took a topic that women find daunting and created a great article that was friendly, fun and attainable. Dawn is conversational and speaks on a subject that doesn’t alienate the reader; it’s as if she is giving advice to a girlfriend.  She applied the standards and requirement set forth by the Studio Team and executed a piece of content that is in line with the voice of Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion site. 

Great work, Dawn. I am looking forward to more “fierceness” from you in 2011.



How do I Choose a Nike Swimsuit?
By Dawn Levesque

Overview

Bring on the fierce. Don’t wait to uncover yourself until you jump into the pool because your suit bottom droops or it shows more cleavage than you desire. Find a Nike swimsuit that flatters your figure. You’ll want freedom of movement, comfort and a suit that stays in place no matter what. Ditch the fleece shorts and the tunic cover ups. Hit poolside with confidence by highlighting your shapely assets in the right swimsuit.

Pears to Apples

Step 1

Accentuate the positive features of your pear-shaped figure. It’s all about balance. Wear a suit that features high-cut legs to visually slim down your thighs and hips. A figure-flattering suit such as the Nike Swim Aquacurve Lingerie draws the eye upward.

Step 2

Avoid bottoms in bold colors or with extra fabric. Downplay your lower-torso region with a dark suit bottom or a lightweight skirt that doesn’t add bulk, but offers a smooth line and fuller cut. Be subtle and play up your bust without making it obvious. Try on the Nike two-piece skirted halter tankini with contrasting empire-inspired top and skirted bottom.

Step 3

Minimize your midsection if you have an apple-shape and forgo bikinis. The Nike Swim Core Colorblock tank complements your shape while providing definition to your waist. Color blocking at the neckline darts lead toward the waist for the illusion of a slimmer midsection and a curve-friendly appearance.

Busting Out

Step 1

Keep those girls in line with inner support. A swimsuit with bra construction and cups creates smooth contours while supportive or wide adjustable straps such as the Nike racer-style X provide a more secure fit.

Step 2

Sport a swimsuit with a higher neckline such as the Nike High Neck One-Piece. Designed for ease of movement while providing support, this suit features secure bra cups and a princess color-blocking for an oh-so-slim you.

Step 3

Get into a suit with a darker color block on top and a design at the bottom. The motif will draw attention to your lower areas, downplaying an ample bust. The Nike Power Back has sewn-in bra cups, extra support from a power-net bra and wide racer-back straps.

Full Coverage

Step 1

Cover your derriere. Put on a swimsuit with full coverage when you’re feeling modest or need a little extra for your bootylicious backside. Look at the Nike Swim Signature halter tankini that features a high-waist brief to provide maximum coverage in and out of the water.

Step 2

Hide your tummy with a two-piece suit or a tankini with a high-waisted bottom. The Nike Core solid two-piece suit promises a mid-cut design and elastic waist for added coverage.

Its top boasts an elastic band and bra construction with cups so it stays put.

Step 3

Say good-bye to tummy bulges with a suit that provides full coverage plus tummy control. The Nike Swim Sweetheart Fitness Tank has a molded padded cups and back cross-straps for extra support. Front ruching or shirring distracts the eye from the waist. A higher sweetheart neckline and an empire waist convey a figure-flattering fit and full coverage.

Skill

    * Moderately Easy

Tips

    * Ask a swimsuit fit consultant to find a Nike swimsuit that's right for your figure.
    * When you try on the suit, your eyes should be drawn to your best assets.
    * Touch your toes and raise your arms in the dressing room. The swimsuit should not ride up, your girls should stay put and you should not have the urge to pull or tug.