Swimsuits. One piece, two-piece, tankini, sporty – there
are many options when it comes to how you choose to express yourself pool side
or temporarily becoming a mermaid at the beach.
Is there a rule when it comes to the different styles? I don’t think so. I know the culture in America is if you
aren’t less than 100lbs, you have no business in a two-piece and should keep
yourself locked in your cage until Fall.
I like to think while this is utterly hilarious, it simply isn’t
true. Who cares, right? If it fits you properly, then rock it like
it’s fashion week right there in the sand.
I love the patterns, styles and different cuts when it comes to swim
suits but some caution should be taken into consideration. Let’s be honest about our body shapes and
fit.
There
is a growing trend in plus size swim suits where they have supportive two-piece
suits because not all plus size women have a large chest. We aren’t unicorns, I promise. We are just normal women who want great
support in all areas of our bodies. I
don’t firmly believe in the built in bra top swimsuits but if it’s your fancy,
then by all means – purchase away. The
thing is, most suits now come with a bra shelf that is supportive, as well as
straps that can be adjusted for greater accuracy when it comes to fit for the
girls. That way they aren’t smashed
together like fresh bread at the bottom of a shopping bag. They can breathe and flounce around like you
are Mae West in a photo-shoot. I also
love halter style suits because they give the best cleavage and support. The only downside is after a few hours you
want to give your neck a break but that’s fine.
It’s the perfect excuse to change into a great summer dress and do some
shopping or site seeing.
How far
to the bottom? Your bottom should also
be taken into consideration. Find
something that not only flatters but has great fit. For me, I don’t like anything outside of a
hipster like cut, or a boyshort cut. I
want more coverage without feeling like I have a wedgie. Some women prefer a thinner cut and I say go
for it if you are comfortable and feel comfortable in it. Who is to tell you otherwise? They have great styles now with swim skirts
that come in one piece, two-piece, and the tankini style bottoms. It’s very feminine and not frumpy like the
plus size swimsuits of yesteryear. I
used to have an ugly plaid swimsuit. I
hated that thing, but it was the only one I could find in my size at the
time. I’m so happy things have
changed!
Let’s
uncover the nasty truth when it comes to swimsuits. The price.
I know most people don’t go swimming every day and probably only take
one, maybe two vacations in the summer unless they live close to a beach so you
aren’t using your swimsuit often enough to justify spending $100-$200 on
it. I know some people want to buy a new
one each year too and find it difficult to find their size or something that
will fit properly. I have to tell you
that you do not have to spend a lot of money to get a great fit and great
style. There are many stores that offer
plus sized swim suits that DO fit and won’t kill your wallet. You may feel inclined to buy two suits each
season, and yes, they will last for a few years. I bought a tankini from Target that has
lasted 5 years. The color hasn’t faded
nor the fit. I wore that thing out over
those 5 years. I also have a one piece
from Walmart that has lasted quite a while as well. Last year I started to look elsewhere for
something new just to see if it was possible and frankly, it was. I wasn’t directed to the shameful area in the
back of the store where the lightening is horrible and items don’t have
pairs. They had plus size stuff on
display with everything else and I found my size easily and effortlessly. This was at JCPenny. I also stocked up on additional bottoms to go
with that suit at Target because they always has great, reasonable prices on
swimsuits. Yes, even the plus-sized
ones. You really can’t beat it. They also have a lot of choices too so don’t
feel like you have to buy a black swimsuit because you are over a size 12.
The important
thing to remember is do not tell yourself that you are not worthy of wearing
something because you haven’t hit your goal weight. Also, do NOT buy anything thinking you will
lose another x amount of pounds before summer.
This is such a dangerous trap that women setup for themselves each and
every year. I always see the diet
commercials start right after Christmas promising and boasting that you will
lose that “holiday weight” or hit your goal so you will look like a swimsuit
model come summer. Love the skin you are
in, folks. Don’t be scared to try a
tankini, two-piece or a new pattern or color.
Taking risks and building your confidence are what makes the human
experience exciting. If anything, work
on hitting that goal in self-confidence.
Dare to be different this summer!
This is the suit I bought recently for this summer:
