Tropic zone

If, by chance, you head to one of many local beach destinations for some quiet lowkey "me" time, then be warned: beaches like Boracay survive – and thrive – because it is a hub for narcissistic sun-worshippers eager to flaunt their toned bodies and swanky bikinis. In other words, people head to these spots not to spend sunsets contemplating life but to show off. It’s not about you – it’s all about the other people around you.

Everyone appears to be five seconds or a sideways glance away from shoving their bronzed (no doubt with the help of glittery products), maillot-clad body in your face.

Well, exhibitionists will have another reason to crow about their beachwear with the release of Loungeri Lux’s summer line, a collection of swimsuits that range from ornate pieces embellished with pearls and gold-toned fabric to stark, minimalist black suits with architectural cutouts.

The label’s name was inspired by Lux (Kirsten Dunst’s character) in the Jeffrey Eugenides-penned, Sofia Copolla-directed Virgin Suicides, a slow-paced tale of four sisters from a somewhat normal suburban family who committed suicide one night. Lux, the second youngest of the foursome, was a seductress. With her long blond tresses, porcelain skin and lush, pre-teen body, she was the embodiment of the female at her prime: young, ripe and innocent.

The label combines the two polar attributes – sexy and virginal, innocent and knowing – by contrasting fabric and pattern to create a piece more sophisticated and modern than the usual teeny bikinis.

There’s an Italian-inspired maillot in eggshell blue that’s edged with faux ivory and gilt buttons which are the embodiment of luxe. A crisp navy and white suit is sporty and glamorous at the same time, reminiscent of a chic Jackie Kennedy relaxing at Hyannis Port. The skimpy suit comes in the form of a sexy chocolate swimsuit with rope tassels linking a scanty top with a narrow bottom. It gives even the skinniest of frames a more voluptuous shape.

No matter the selection, each suit is a standout with its effortlessly glamorous shapes and fabrics. And if it catches the eye of every hot guy on the beach? Well, so much the better.