Drum roll, please! We're introducing the winners of our #FeelGoodHalfNaked model search, in partnership with Swimco, to deliver the hottest trends and most flattering styles of the season. 

Image by Alvaro Goveia

Denise Chow

34, Public relations professional

Denise Chow entered this contest for one reason. "I was in it for the swimsuits," she says with a smile. One of the perks of winning our contest is a new swimsuit wardrobe provided by Swimco and that was too good for Denise to resist. Her style is casual and cool, so her closet is full of denim and tees. "I'm only now learning what my swimsuit style is. Growing older, becoming more confident and taking the time to find pieces that fit my body have made a big difference in what I feel comfortable wearing," says Denise "This photo shoot gave me a surge of confidence, too. I wish everyone could feel like this every day." 

Throw-Back

Guess what? High-cut swimsuit bottoms popularized in the ’80s and early ’90s by Jane Fonda Workout videos and shows like Baywatch are back. High-cut legs, on a one-piece or a bikini, look good on every single body. We love the look paired with this distinctive, very ’90s square neckline.

Billabong Sunny Rib Square Neck Bikini TOP, $70, and Maui Rider BOTTOMS, $65, swimco.com.

Image by Alvaro Goveia

Marissa Forgie

31, Mom of two

"I do all the right things for my body," says model search winner Marissa Forgie. "I run, I practice martial arts, I lift weights and I eat healthily—and this is what my body looks like! This is me," she says. "I try to focus on that kind of thinking, both for me and my family." This mom just exudes positivity and has the kind of self-assurance that comes from developing her own confidence. "I feel my best right now—strong, self-possessed and beautiful," she says. We totally agree.

Black Magic

Shopping for that perfect two-piece is tricky for anyone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options, go back to basics and choose a striking black bikini. We love this one with its plunging neckline, romantic ruffles and ruched high-waisted bottoms.

Sea Level Essential Black FRILL TOP, $90, and gathered HIGH-WAISTED BOTTOMS, $65, CC Good Time HAT in Hello Sunshine, swimco.com.

Image by Alvaro Goveia

Michelle Beilhartz

35, Freelance writer (openhartz.com), and social marketing professional

It's hard to describe multi-talented Michelle Beilhartz, but sharing with you that she radiates a joie de vivre is a good place to start. "I've always pushed myself beyond my comfort zone, and every time I do that I grow and collect another piece that contributes to the confidence I have," says Michelle. She adds that self-assurance isn't a reflection in the mirror or a dress size. Instead, it's an energy, and it's something she works on every day. Based on that philosophy, we decided that this Swimco one-piece was the suit for her. "It's not what I'd normally wear, but I feel like a surfer badass in it," she says.

Surfs Up

Last summer, one-pieces dominated the swimwear scene. This year, we’re seeing an offshoot of the trend with the rise of surf- inspired suits. We adore the palm print on this one, but what makes it really stand out is the juxtaposition of the high neckline and long sleeves with the sexy cut-out insets on the hips.

Ripcurl Palm Reader SURF SUIT, $120, swimco.com.

For a special, behind-the-scenes look at our #FeelGoodHalfNaked photo shoot, click here.