I know everyone is saying it, but how is it already June? I feel like we just started the new year off! Can’t. Deal. I will say I am so excited for summer to be here, though. I am over the school run and ready to just spend time lounging at the beach and the pool with my oldest. Day tripping to the Hamptons and exploring this fabulous city.
Last week, I walked into Lane Bryant and, I TRIED ON A BIKINI AND DIDN’T HATE IT. Not just a two piece tank suit, but a real life, full blown bikini. My sister was there to giggle with me, and it wasn’t nearly as terrifying as it would have been a year or two ago. I have to preface this by letting you know that I grabbed a few different bikinis and fully expected it to just be a joke. I mean, who the hell do I think I am, right? Definitely no model. And while I am working really hard to love my body at this moment, I don’t every single day.
But I pulled that bikini on and took a good, hard look at my body in the mirror. Poked at a couple rolls and made a few jokes. And then I stopped and said, “This is honestly kind of cute!” No idea where that came from! I did a few turns and told myself that maybe by next year, I would be confident enough to rock one.
I couldn’t stop thinking about the damn bikini. And how fun it would be to wear one to the beach. Not to make a point or to stand out. But for ME. So, I bought the bikini! It already feels so liberating! I have never even owned a bikini. In all my 30 years of life. How crazy is that? I can’t wait to rock it to the beach later this summer.
I want to be able to tell you that this transformation came overnight. That I was suddenly changed in that dressing room. But it has been hard work to overcome the hate that I have been trained to have for my body. To not feel shame for taking up more space than the person next to me. I am so thankful for my friend who showed me the light and taught me that I can be healthy and happy at every size my body may be. I’m still in shock that I tried on a bikini and didn’t hate it or my body.
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FAVORITE SWIMSUITS
You guys ask me all the time about my favorite swimwear. While you can’t just walk into your local Target and buy something outright, it definitely isn’t as hard to find gorgeous plus size swimsuits as it used to be. There are so many amazing brands out there who GET IT. Just because I have a booty, doesn’t mean I want to wear a grandma suit, am I right?? So, I have been hunting for the best and have decided to only share my absolute favorites!
Eloquii Twist Front One Shoulder Swimsuit
Seriously, how cute is this rainbow striped suit? I love the peekaboo cut out in the front. The one shoulder makes me think it will have enough support for bigger busts!
Eloquii One Piece with Tie Front
I want this suit so badly! It is like the best of both worlds. High waisted bottoms, bra style top and a little coverage over the stomach area. Dream!
Swimsuits for All GabiFresh Gravitron Underwire Swimsuit
Hello, boobs! I almost ALWAYS go for a swimsuit that has an underwire. Between weight loss and gain and two years of breastfeeding, I need all the support I can get. I love the mesh panels on this suit!
Swimsuits for All Charlatan Bikini
Total sucker for any kind of crochet detailing. And if Ashley Graham says it is good… You know it is!
Torrid Tropical Print Ruffled Bikini This is exactly what I am looking for in a bikini top! When I tried this on in store, it was much shorter that it appears on the model which I loved! It definitely looks more bikini and less tankini in real life.
Torrid Gingham Floral Underwire Bikini
Torrid suits are some of my favorite, because they have amazing support. I really don’t want to be worried about extra jiggle when I am playing in the waves with my oldest.
What kind of suit are you rocking this summer? Whether it is a bikini, a one piece or a thong, I hope you are getting out in the water and playing with your kids.
