all about that, swimwear.

Swimsuit: Top: Loft. (sold out. similar here.) Bottoms: (that you can’t see, but they’re really cute and striped.  JCrew Factory.) Shorts: JCrew Factory. Hat: JCrew. ( also similar here.) Flip Flops: Target. (seriously best most comfortable pair ever.)

Ava’s suit: Old Navy. (their whole swim line for toddlers is perfect.)

We went away for the long weekend and for the first time it really felt like summer.  Warm weather, sunshine, roasted hot dogs and marshmallows, and lots of time by the water.  Which means, I slipped into my swimming suit for maybe the second time since we went on our cruise back in March.  Ug.  Despite the fact that I mostly grew up in a swimsuit (California born and raised) I’ve dreaded wearing one basically since puberty.  Something to do with my flat-chest, short legs, etc. etc.  It’s silly, I know, but the truth is, I’m rather self-conscious in a bathing suit.  Especially this year, when I’ve been dealing with thyroid issues and my weight/metabolism has been a bit out of whack. (but that’s a topic for another day/blog post.)

 I don’t think I’m all that alone in this, and it’s a pretty sad thing really; how much we women beat ourselves up over not having the perfect body.  Anyway, my cure for water-side insecurity is finding a flattering swimsuit that I love.  My options are often limited because my unnaturally small chest makes finding a suit that I can actually (sort-of) fill up rather difficult, especially because I prefer to keep my mid-section covered.  Luckily, one-pieces are all the thing this season (thank the Heavens) and there are so many chic, flattering options that are great for masking problem areas.

A few style tips I’ve found helpful when swim suit shopping.

1.Ruching is your friend.  It masks tummy imperfections, and can add the illusion of fullness around the bust even when it most definitely does not exist.

2. Fun patterns are a fantastic camouflage.  Also, who doesn’t love a great floral swimsuit?

3. High-neck halters are a fun way to mix it up and are very flattering if you have a flatter chest.

4.  Never underestimate the power of a good cover-up.  Let’s be real, you wear the cover-up just about as much as the suit itself and a fun cover-up can be a great way to feel confident in your swimwear.  I love getting a simple pair of bright linen shorts, or a fun romper (here and here)  when I’m feeling sporty.  I also love simple- oversized button ups (think borrowed from the boys), and of course light summer dresses are always a great option.  Tons of great classy cover-up options here.

Find all the best in flattering swimwear below…