The topic of this blog post is perhaps one of the most stressful topics when going into the warm season: swimwear. While most of us already feel body conscious in full clothes that cover our bodies completely, the thought of wearing nearly nothing more than underwear out in public leads to panic!
For many of us, completely staying out of a swimsuit all summer long is not an option, so I am going to share some tips with you to stay stylish, feel confident, and to be ready to take on the sun's rays!
- Find the right swimsuit for your body type. There are so many suit options out there. From bikinis to tankinis, to one-shoulder styles, full body coverage, bandeau, cutouts....the possibilities are endless. The first key to finding the right suit for you is to understand your body type and what areas you prefer to draw attention to. As an example, if you have larger hips, you will want to select a suit that draws the eye upwards towards your face and chest. If you have a boyish frame, you will want to create the illusion of curves with subtle waist details. If you have broad shoulders, bringing the eye downward to create a visual impact around your hips will be important. And if you are broadest in the center of your body, creating attention both up AND down will be key.
- Fit. Swimwear is like shapewear in that you do NOT want to squeeze into a suit that is too small just because swimsuits have compression. Wear your true size to avoid more lumps and bumps from forming. And, honestly, you will feel more comfortable and confident if you aren't being cut into by swimsuit seams.
- Have fun playing! There are so many options for swimsuits with the different cuts, details, and prints in your suit. When you are swimsuit shopping, definitely grab the suits that speak to you visually. From there, you can really think about how the details on the suit will pull the eye and if they will attract to the areas you want them to or detract from the areas you want the eye to glaze over.
- Have a minimum of 2 swimsuits in your wardrobe. You never know when you may want to go to the pool 2 days in a row and this allows for you to be able to allow one to fully dry before you need to wear it again.
- Keep in mind tan lines. This is a big one, especially because swimsuit season is also the season we tend to wear short sleeve blouses with v-necks. Be mindful of the tan lines that your suit will leave on your body. I personally tend to stay away from very strappy styles across my chest because no matter how much I try to stay out of the sun (and of course apply sunscreen), you will have some sort of tan line. In addition, as I am purchasing my swimsuits, I try to keep the necklines similar so that I don't have multiple different tan lines. Some swimwear comes in a variety of colors in the same style. If you find a style that you love where this is the case, it would be smart to purchase two of the same style in different colors.
- Shopping for swimsuits. The first point I want to emphasize here is that you get what you pay for. Invest in higher quality swimwear and you will be able to wear it for longer. Swimsuits are in pools and salt water often, and those things can break down the material. In addition, if you spend more on your swimsuit, the fabric will typically be thicker, which is something we all want when wearing so little (and with nothing underneath). The second point I want to make is that it is smart to purchase several different suits and to take them home to try them on in the comfort of your home. You aren't worried about "skinny" mirrors or strange lighting and you can truly feel comfortable and have a better discerning eye when you are in the comfort of your own home. Just make sure that you understand the return policy of the store you make your purchases from. Many times if the liner is removed from the swimsuit, you are unable to return it. Also, stores have different return windows, so you don't want to miss that timeframe and be stuck with a suit you don't love.
- Coverups. This is an important part of your swim attire and can truly make or break a look. For women who don't spend as much time in the water and prefer to sit under an umbrella and relax or watch children from their seats, a chic coverup is essential. These come in many different forms and the type you choose will depend on how you typically spend your time. You may even be going to a pool party and then your coverup is even MORE important. You will want to have at least 2 coverups in your warm weather arsenal. Types of coverups include:
- Kimono. A fabulous kimono is one of my favorite swimsuit toppers because it is quite effortless and you still get to see your swimsuit underneath, but with the added bonus of a bit more coverage which leaves many women to feel more confident in their swimsuits.
- Romper. This will be your pull on short/topper typically in a soft fabric. This will be a one piece that is just easy styling. This is a great option if you are at a pool party or plan to be in and out of a resort throughout the day.
- Sun Dress. More than likely, this will be an option that you reserve for a pool party, but this can be a short dress or a long dress and you want it to be something without buttons or zippers that need to be undone to take it on or off. Look for a sundress that has at least a little bit of elastic in the midsection.
- Kaftan. An elegant, and easy piece, caftan's traditionally are pretty boxy, but come in bold, fun prints. You will even find pieces that have some bejeweled features or some embroidered details on them. A fabulous option if you love to look a bit more fancy when chillaxing by the pool.
- Sarong. This can be quite a versatile piece to choose as a coverup. Sarongs can be worn in a multitude of ways. You can wear them tied around your waist, tied as a dress, worn with the ties crossed over like a halter...so many great options.
- Tunic. This option is different than a shirt tunic in that is a pullover that either has some open weaving (built in air conditioning) or is a bit shorter than a traditional tunic top. This option makes using the "loo" quite easy.
- Wrap Dress. Yes, you can take a traditional true-wrap dress and wear it open (with the ties tied up behind your back) as a coverup. Super chic. Look for a wrap dress that is a breezy fabric. This is a great option for making a wrap dress more versatile.
- Accessories. This is where you consider your beach bag or purse if you are going to a pool party, your hats, and sunglasses. This category allows you to add some extra personality and flare to your looks. When you are shopping these pieces, think holistically about your swim attire to create a cohesive look.
- Caring for your swimsuit. BUY THE SPECIAL SWIM WASH AND HANG DRY YOUR SUITS. Please, for the love of all that is good, take care of these garments that are subjected to chemicals, salt, and sunlight! Treat them well and they will last much longer in your wardrobe.
- One-piece swimsuit bathroom hack. Okay, so admittedly, this one is a tip. You may already know this one, but I personally just learned this a year ago and I am in my mid-40s! I used to really prefer a two-piece swimsuit for the reason of the PAIN it is to get a wet swimsuit pulled down and back up everytime you have to use the bathroom. I am at an age where, for me personally, I don't love my stomach to be showing. So, here's the tip: when you have to use the restroom, all you need to do is pull the piece under your private parts to the side. This allows you to pee without having to contort to get your swimsuit on and off (and sit on the toilet completely naked)! Genius!
Now, a couple of general tips or reminders as you enjoy your sun-filled days. No one wants a ruined vacation or week because of sunburn or heat stroke:
- Don't forget your SPF. The sun is more powerful than ever and one application is not enough. Make sure to reapply every 2 hours and maybe more if you are spending time in the pool.
- Hydrate...with water! I know the pool is prime time for a cocktail, beer, or glass of wine, but make sure you are drinking 8oz. of water for every drink you are enjoying. The sun can make a hangover come on more strongly at the end of the day
- Cool off with a misting fan or my favorite facial hydrating spray.
- Don't forget the important "extras": easy snacks, waters, fruit (frozen grapes, anyone?!), baby wipes for any messes (keep them in your cooler for a refreshing wipe down), a waterproof bag or pouch for your phone, keys, identification, a bluetooth speaker to hear some music from your phone, and a book or magazine (or audiobook with earbuds) to enjoy your relaxation time!
Happy "pooling", friend!
Stylishly Yours,
PS - What is your favorite summer destination? Do you have a favorite tip you want to share? Email me and let me know!
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