It's that time again...swimsuit season!

Pic Malia Mills

All right ladies. Let's do this! The weather is finally getting warmer, & summer is right around the corner which means now is the time to get out there and find the perfect suit. Courage my loves - it can be done!

No matter what our size may be, most women have moments of anxiety when exposing so much skin.

Here are my top tips to get yourself prepared to brave the beach in comfort and style.

1. Plan Ahead
Don't just haphazardly walk into a store and decide to buy a swimsuit, and don't leave it to the last minute and buy the first suit you see.  Please, do yourself a favour and don’t buy a suit that is too small and tell yourself you will lose weight by summer. Or conversely, select one that is a size too big and may fall off when splashing around in the water. And if you're one size on top and another on the bottom—like most women—look for stores where they sell separates.

2. Go Alone
I think it is less stressful to go alone when it comes to a buying a swimsuit. What matters is that you feel good in the suit. That trumps everything and everyone else. If you try on a bathing suit, and feel good in it, then go with it. You will no doubt hit the beach with confidence.

3. Ignore the Lighting
I remember standing in a dressing room wearing, what I felt was a great bikini, when I saw dimples on my legs that I had never seen before. I was furious - but I tried to keep my cool.  The suit fit me well. It highlighted my best features and it also fit my personality. Dimples or no dimples, this suit suited me. When I got home, I tried it on again, far away from the harsh unflattering, want to crawl under a rock lighting of the dressing room, and I was happy with what I saw. Phew.

4. Fit & Function
Think about comfort and fit rather than trends. Like when shopping for clothes, pick a suit that is YOU. Some swim suits can be plain and simple while others can be bold & bright, choosing one that highlights your personality will make you feel good all the time. Equally important is function. If you are going to be running around chasing after your kids, the two piece string bikini may be out of the question!  So be sure to pick a style that is appropriate for the setting.

5. Accessorize
Buying a cute cover up, sunglasses, hat, and sandals will make your outfit more complete. Instead of hiding behind an oversized shirt, buy a pretty sarong that will make you feel beautiful and self assured.

6. Own It! 
Once you've made your choice, own it. Wear that new suit confidently.  There is nothing more attractive than confidence, so embrace that beautiful body of yours and have a good time wherever you are.


Do you have your own tips for surviving buying a new swimsuit? If so, please share them!

Next up - Shop your shape. Styles that suit your body type.