swimsuit season continued

Although it is really important to love your body, it's equally important to know what to look for when shopping for a swimsuit. A proper fitting suit will not only keep you from potential embarrassment when coming out of the water, it will also give you confidence that you are looking your best.

Here are some tips on shopping for the right swimsuit.

1 - Give yourself plenty of time to find a swimsuit-remember Rome wasn't built in a day. Finding the perfect swimsuit takes more then a few minutes; so allot at least an afternoon to try on a number of suits. Be prepared to try on many different styles to come up with the one that will work for your body type.

2 - Swimsuit sizes are not the same as dress sizes!  So do not get discouraged because all of the suits feel too small. As a general rule expect to go up two sizes from your regular dress size. It's not you that's gotten larger, it's the suit that's gotten smaller! If going up a few sizes in some suits doesn't work, just accept the fact that some swimsuit cuts don't work for everyone.

3 - Treat swimsuit shopping like a day at the beach - spray on a little self tanner the night before, treat yourself to a pedicure, and might I suggest a bikini wax as well.  That way when you go to try on swimsuits you are looking and feeling your best and aren't busy focusing on how horrible your skin looks under florescent lighting or the fact that you forgot to shave your legs.

4 - Don't be afraid to try new styles, you might be surprised about how fabulous you look in a suit you never imagined wearing. Often people get stuck in a comfort zone when buying swimsuits and they stick to buying the same suit year after year. So go ahead and have a little fun and try on that metallic bathing suit! You might shine!

5 - Be realistic. There are suits out there for every body type under the sun. The trick is to find the one that fits you properly, that you are comfortable in (yes, it is possible!), that offers enough support and  adequate coverage.

Embrace your body this summer and give yourself a pat on the back for your perseverance. Now get out there and celebrate the sun, the surf, and your own beautiful body!

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