Well Suited
Part 2
I'm back! I apologize. I took an unannounced hiatus for dance competition season. I didn't really think that anyone was paying much attention to the blog until I received a facebook post saying they missed it! So good; someone is reading this!
So where was I...? Oh yes, bathing suits! So did you try yours on? I did! Look, I'm not letting you do this alone. We're in this together. Today I will encourage you regarding the best 'style' of bathing suit for your body type. We must also remember that we have a responsibility not to "trip" men/boys up - to see more than they should. As a mother of a son, I cringe during bathing suit season the most. It is absolutely possible to have a very stylish AND modest bathing suit!
In general, one piece suits or tankinis are most flattering and modest (in general) on all body types. Here are some known concerns amongst our individual body types:
Do you want to conceal muffin top, tummy, or upper midriff? This is for any of the body types - b, o, d, x.
Then you will need to get a suit with extra spandex or Lycra. The sales associates can show you the different brands that have extra spandex or Lycra. Do know that these suits are a little more expensive, but absolutely worth the money! These suits WILL make you look several pounds lighter or slimmer. Also, prints will make your tummy appear flatter! Cool huh?
Do you have a waistline? (b, o) If not, look for suits that have a crossover or shirred middle or side. This creates the illusion of a waist.
Are you small - busted? (b, d, x) You will need to choose a suit(s) that have decorative details on the top. Rings, ruffles, prints, patterns, ruching or contrasting colors. No plain, dark or solid colored tops. Built in padding may also be an option. I'm personally not a big fan of the removable padding, but that's just me.
Are you large busted? (x, b, o) Support is key for you! Always, always get a suit with a built in bra with an underwire. Also look for suits with prints, patterns, v-necks, and darker colors. High but armholes are nice to keep you all in with no spillage.
Do you want to hide your hips? (d) Look for suits that are skirted or have higher cut legs. The skirted suits come in different lengths depending on just how much you'd like to conceal. Just make sure your swim bottom is longer than the fullest part of your leg. If it stops right in the middle of the fullest part of your leg that will draw attention to that very spot. If you opt for a suit with a high cut leg, then a cute wrap skirt is nice to help hide your thighs. Also, draw attention away from your bottom half by wearing details at the top half. Look for straps that sit wide on your shoulders which will balance your hips. Do not wear a halter neck top. Remember, balance.
Do you need to add more curves? (b, x) Look for suits that have designs or patterns in the center of the suit to create the illusion of a curvier figure.
If you are long-waisted or are tall and slim look for lower neck lines and leg-eyes which will shorten the look of your body. Avoid vertical designs or stripes!
If you are short-waisted or just short, vertical stripes or designs/prints make your body look longer and taller. Higher cut leg eyes make your legs look longer.
Are you a plus size? Then go bold! Bold prints are awesome for you! Also look specifically for suits with 15-20% spandex or Lycra. Again, you may spend a little more money on these suits because of the minimizing fabric, but quality is important as well as comfort and support.
Are your arms heavy? Then find a suit that draws attention to your neckline with lots of details and decorations, or even a pattern in the middle of the suit. An added sheer-armed coverup in the same color as your suit will help conceal your arms.
More tips:
For b body types, tankinis are perfect for you, especially those with a flare top that doesn't hug your tummy. Patterns are best as well as halter tops.
For o body types, patterns and solid colors with shirring are best for you. A suit with strong bra support is a must!
D body types should stay away from halter tops (minimizes shoulders, making hips appear bigger) and choose wide shoulder straps. Suit tops can have horizontal strips or prints. Skirted suits are great for you too. Just make sure the skirt does not fall in the middle of the fullest part of your thigh.
If you are an x body type you can wear just about any bathing suit. However, pay attention to where you tend to gain weight and use the tips above for the other body types to help keep your proportion and balance.
Accessorizing along with your new swim suit is fun too! Don't forget hot shades (check out my earlier post where I talked about sunglasses), a coordinating cover up, sandals or flip flops and a great beach bag to carry all your sunscreen and magazines or books. Don't forget painted toes! Super cute!
I'm ready to get my shop on and find a great new bathing suit and cover up! How about you?!
As I end this week's blog, I would love for you to partner with me in prayer as I continue to seek God's direction for the ministry he has led me to. I am sending promotional materials out for fall and winter speaking events, and into next year as well. If you know of a women's group or church who would like more information on my speaking topics, please let me know. Word of mouth marketing is so powerful! I would also love to get together with small groups of women and do "style parties". This would be a great way to find out more about your fashion personality and get tips and tricks on your best colors and dressing your God-given, beautiful body! We could even do a fun fashion show!
Blessings!
