With spring approaching there is one thing I know for sure: summer is not far behind. With summer comes weekend getaways, beach days and family vacations. The very idea of summer means the dreaded bathing suit shopping and with it, all the insecurities women have about their bodies. No matter what your age I would bet money that there is some part of your body you would like to change. The fact remains that while a healthy diet and moderate exercise are highly recommended for general health reasons, most women will always have body hang-ups. The only things that will change are which areas concern you.
Troublesome Parts
In your 20s you worry about lumps, bumps and excess fat. In your 30s you worry that your post-baby body just isn’t what it used to be. In your 40s you realize that things aren’t as perky and lifted anymore, while in your 50s you realize that things have started to sag and wrinkle where they used to be tight and firm. Having spoken to women from a variety of age groups I know that the concerns, though seemingly funny at first, are very real and can peck away at a woman’s self-esteem. It is not a lost cause though, as there are some things you can do to avoid trying on swimsuits that are not right for your body and will spare you the humiliation of realizing it once you have it on under the fluorescent lights.
Do Some Research
Honestly! Going online and checking what types of suits will flatter your body type is a great way to steer yourself in the right direction once you get to the store. Otherwise, you can feel overwhelmed and pick out suits that are completely wrong for your figure. Come spring and summer, plenty of women’s magazines have articles that cater to swimsuits and which body types will look good in which styles. It also may be a good idea to use the expertise of the salesgirl at the store, assuming she knows her inventory and is helpful.
Have Realistic Expectations
Remember that when you try on swimsuits, it is you that is wearing them! You cannot expect them to transform your body into supermodel measurements, but that goes both ways. Women tend to view their bodies in the mirror as an altered form of what they really look like and not in a good way. Because of this, a little extra fat in the stomach or thighs will be distorted and you will feel as though you look like a whale. The awful lighting in change rooms really doesn’t help either so try to keep in mind that natural lighting is a lot more forgiving. It also helps to bring a girlfriend or sister with you, anyone who can give you some honest perspective.
Try On Multiple Swimsuits
The same way you know you have found ‘the one’ when shopping for a wedding gown, you will know your perfect swimsuit when you see it on yourself. Do not limit yourself to one store or the three suits you brought into the change room the first time around. Finding the right suit may take a couple of trips to the mall so do not get discouraged and leave yourself plenty of time because there are few feelings worse than the panicked “I’m going to be the only woman on the beach with exposed flesh that should never see the light of day” feeling.
Forget About Your Swimsuit
Once you have made your decision and purchased the swimsuit, don’t waste any more time thinking about it. Enjoy your vacation, cottage, weekend getaway or wherever it is you are going and forget about minute details like your swimsuit. The fun is in the memories you will create in the swimsuit, not how your body looks in it, so try to remember that the next time you cringe at the thought of going shopping for one. Instead, be excited about your upcoming trip, even if it is just the summertime in general, and spending time with family and friends. Unfortunately there are bigger things to worry about in our world and if you are blessed with a body that works for you, don’t let the shame of imperfections keep you from enjoying it.
