So if I can swan around a Belfast tourist attraction clad in a spangly silver swimsuit, you can surely strut your stuff by the pool this Summer! #thisgirlcan
I went WAYYY out of my comfort zone posing among the tropical plants in swimwear at the Palm House in Botanic Gardens recently (much to the amusement of passing American tourists!). I forced myself to do this because I believe in promoting body confidence - and there's no point in me shouting about it if I'm not prepared to follow (swim)suit!
Check out my instagram @cathymartin10 here for photographic evidence!
I wholeheartedly believe that women should embrace their bod regardless of shape or size - and that #everybodyisabikinibody! Swimwear styling is incredible now, with a range to suit every body, supporting and enhancing in all the right places - you just need to know what to look for - and I'm here to help. So embrace your booty, boobs and thighs and prepare to hit the beach with sass this Summer.
The Bikini
Remember the days when bikinis were only available in regular clothing sizes... tough luck if you were more curvaceous on top/bottom?! Thankfully we can now slip into stylish numbers cut in true lingerie sizes to show off our assets at their very best! Here are a few of my favourites...
Blue Bravissimo Bondi Bikini -£58.
Floozie by Frost French Retro Daisy Bikini, Debenhams -£40 (sale)
Freya Club Envy Khaki Bikini -£60
FREYA -TOTALLY CHECK BANDEAU - £61
The Tankini
If you prefer a little more coverage on the beach, but still want to show a touch of cleavage, set sail in a tankini. Most are available with a choice of bikini or high rise bottoms to suit your individual body shape. Perfect for covering up during lunch or running around after little ones, the top half can easily be rolled up to tan your tum while lounging.
Bravissimo St Moritz Tankini -£68
Free Tropical Palm Tankini, Bravissimo -£67
Panache Anya Crochet Bandeau Tankini -£63
The Swimsuit
While I still sport a bikini on holiday, my personal favourite is a one piece swimsuit as I find them super flattering. Opt for underwired plunge cups, smoothing tummy control and a high cut leg to make the most of those gorgeous curves!
Blue belted swimsuit, Next -£38
Bravissimo Amalfi Swimsuit -£52
Figleaves Edge Colourblock shaping swimsuit -£60
Figleaves fuschia tummy control swimsuit -£38
Figleaves tummy control swimsuit worn -£40
Ruffle shape enhancing bandeau swimsuit, Next -£32
Secret Slimming Floral Print swimsuit M&S -£28 Rosie for Autograph