Ah, Summer. It means no more essays or tests for the rest of your days – Just a whole bunch of fun in the sun. The beach, water parks, and pools; it’s finally time for bathing suits! Fun prints and patterns give you the confidence to strut your stuff. But what happens when you’re curvier? I can tell you first hand that finding the perfect suit seems impossible. A tiny string bikini holding up your boobs? Try again. Waistband fitting around your hips but not your waist? I’ve been there. Larges that seem like they are made for smalls (I’m talking to you, Forever 21). And worst of all, the ugly one pieces that your mom picks out for you. If any of those scenarios sound like you, then you know the struggle. I’m here to guide you, my Her Campus friend, into the great wide world of trendy, curvy, and plus sized bathing suits! Here are some of my few tips and tricks when on the bathing suit hunt:
Get inspo from models.
Ashley Graham, a plus sized model and body positivity activist, knows how to slay in a bikini. She owns her curves and chooses suits that flatter them. If you are looking for more support, opt for a thicker strapped halter instead of a string bikini. Don’t shy away from color or print either- it will give you the confidence to rock what you got. Ashley even has her own swimwear collection that is made specifically with all body types in mind. She paired with Swimsuits for All and created a collection that can be found here.
These two suits on Ashley are so trendy!
Don’t be afraid of one pieces – they can be sexy, too.
Is it just me, or is anyone else pumped that one pieces are actually back in style? Say goodbye to the old and drab looking suits of the past. Now, these bathing suits have higher cuts on the side to show off killer hips, funky prints, and perfectly placed cutouts to accentuate different features. I consider Khloe Kardashian is the queen of one pieces because each time I see her in one I’m reminded that you can be comfy and sexy at the same time! She has bigger hips and butt so the suits she picks look great on her! They also look great on smaller body types as well. Kendall Jenner is fuego in her one-piece. Check them out y’all.
Know where to shop.
This might surprise some people, but Amazon.com actually has some awesome bathing suits that are affordable, durable, and made for curvy girls! Obviously, you have to check reviews and make sure that what you are buying is legit- but I have found some super cute suits without breaking the bank. Sometimes the pictures depict smaller models, but if you check out the reviews there are women of all shapes and sizes that post pictures with the suits on. This way you can see what it looks like on someone before you order. The best part is, if you have amazon prime, almost always you get free returns! All the suits listed below range from XS-4XL.
Hopefully, this advice helped you realize that finding the perfect suit might not be as impossible as it seems. There are bathing suits out there for you! In the end, it really comes down to rocking what you’ve got; and that goes for petite and plus sizes!