Swim With The Curve: Learning Curves

Argh! Summertime! It’s so darn bare! Keeping myself put together is definitely more of a challenge during the naked months of summer. Bathing suits and cover-ups can reduce me to tears though I’m somewhat comforted to know that every woman of every shape and every size feels that same “urgh!” reaction to bathing-suit season. We all drive ourselves crazy trying on forty-seven bathing suits to find that perfect suit that suits perfectly—a suit that makes us feel good about ourselves. Well, the bathing suit can only do so much, ladies. Feeling good needs to come from within. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Know yourself and love yourself.

Know what compliments your curves. Recognizing which swimsuit style is most flattering for your shape is really half the battle. Loving a certain bathing suit style does not always mean it’ll love you back. I’ve learned this through trial and error. Being a woman with “more in the middle” meant that the cute two-piece tankini might not be the best bet for me if it shows off my midriff when I lay down in a lounge chair. And I want to lay down in a lounge chair!

I love the ever-glamorous Hollywood swim-dress in the trendy polka dot pattern. I chose the Miraclesuit (yes, it’s $150), as it has the best tummy control panel for extra smoothness and a side gathered wrap-style in the midsection. I found it among Nordstrom’s fabulous plus-size choices. I accessorize my suit when poolside with a great heeled strappy platform sandal and super chic Jackie O’ sunglasses in white.

Not too long ago, plus size women were limited to less than flattering maillots with matronly thick straps, long skirts, and billowing pregnancy style tops. Today, there’s no shortage of choices out there for the curvy woman. You can choose from sexy bikinis, flattering tankinis, classic one-piece suits, boy shorts, and one-shoulder styles. I’ve come up with a few things to keep in mind when swimsuit shopping so that you can spend more time on the beach looking hot and less time in the stores feeling hot and bothered.