In the most Captain Obvious announcement I've ever seen, a new study was just released proving that women get anxious and depressed at the thought of trying on bathing suits.
With beach season getting closer and closer with every passing day, I can't lie–I've DEFINITELY been freaking out a little bit. There is just something about going shopping for a new bathing suit that sucks in every which way possible.
And I know I'm not alone. It's like having to prance around in something akin to your skivvies is bad enough, but once you add the three-way mirrors and a gaggle of judgmental teenage girls in the prime of their fitness, it's enough to drive anyone over the edge, amIright?!
But it really doesn't have to be this traumatizing women! First off, we look fantastic. I don't care if you're tall, short, skinny, overweight, whatever–You are beautiful.
Now that that's out of the way, let's talk about picking out suits that flatter our figures. This is actually way easier said than done in most cases, but thank GOD sporty and retro 50s and 60s style swimwear has made a huge comeback. Believe me, this is great for everyone involved!
Here's why:
Color Blocking
Hey shorties it’s your birthday, ‘cause color blocking is a petite chicas secret to longer looking legs. Pair a bikini top in a vivid print with a solid color block bottom. AVOID boy shorts at all costs and go form something with a high-cut thigh and see how long your legs look! Try out this Bow printed halter top with these Black tie bikini bottoms ($14.99 & $36.95, gap.com)
Retro
A curvy girls DREAM, these styles actually provide enough support to handle your twins! And I don’t mean babies. As a larger busted girl, I have struggled with finding a bikini that I don’t feel like I’m going to spill out of, but this one actually fit the bill! Tested and approved chicas. Retro Push-up Triangle Bikini ($74 for top & bottom, victoriassecret.com)
Athletic
Hooray for the one piece! These new suits are FANTASTIC for mommies who are running after their kids at the beach or the pool. Plus, the stripes really work wonders to contour your body and highlight your fave parts. GUESS? Swimsuit, Halter Keyhole Striped One Piece ($79, macys.com)
Pinup
Another play on the retro trend, these one piece suits feature adorable prints and most importantly cute and frilly skirts! Say goodbye to any hang ups or issues you may have with your hips and channel your inner Marilyn Monroe. Pick one with a belted waist to play up your hour-glass figure! Juicy Couture Polka-Dot One-Piece Swimdress ($190, neimanmarcus.com)
Ruffles
Want me to let you in on a little secret? String bikinis are actually SUPER flattering. With the easy adjustments a string bikini provides, you can ensure a perfect fit every. Single. Time. You can also use the power of ruffles to play to your body shape. Smaller bust? Pick ruffles on the top! Top heavy? Pick a suit with ruffles on the bottom to draw attention down. Shoshana ruffle bikini top & bottom ($75 & $77, shopbop.com)
