I love summertime [1] and all it has to offer — I truly think there is no better time of year. There are fewer more relaxing things to do than laying out by the pool [2], getting your daily dose of vitamin D at the beach, or having a Summer picnic [3] at the local park. Not to mention, my birthday is in August. However, what I did not love so much about warmer weather was the whole picking out a bathing suit process, which typically is enough to send me into overdrive anxiety mode.
Growing up, I have always been extremely self-conscious [4] — always second-guessing my haircuts, my outfits, and my style choices — so when it came time to choose a bathing suit, it was no different. I would spend hours researching online, rummaging through racks in stores, and trying on countless options, hoping and praying that I would find the magical suit that would make me feel amazing. Of course, this was easier said than done. However, I eventually adopted a little style hack that makes me not want to break out in nervous hives every time the phrase "bathing suit" is mentioned — I learned to make my bathing suits multipurpose.
I didn't realize until recently that by picking out a new bathing suit each year to debut at the first beach or pool session of the season and to be worn only during these occasions, I was actually putting tons of unnecessary pressure on myself. To lighten my approach to the whole experience, instead of scrambling to find a bathing suit during or right before beach weather, I now am open to acquiring one all year-long. I also now opt for one-piece bathing suits that I am not confined to only wearing to the beach or the pool. Instead, I'll wear a basic one-piece with a pair of wide-leg pants while running errands, or with a long printed skirt while going out at night. If I am feeling more adventurous, I'll wear a monokini that has louder details to it, such as ruffled necklines, bold colors, or intricate patterns.
Incorporating one-piece bathing suits [6] into my revolving summertime wardrobe allows me to become better acquainted with it and how it interacts with my body — Is it breathable? Does it have good coverage? What accessories work best with it? During which occasions — beach, pool, barbecue, or otherwise — will I feel most confident wearing this to? It is also great for those impromptu beach days.
By loosening the rigid association between "bathing suit" and "beach" or "pool," and allowing myself to become really comfortable and familiar with it on a daily basis, I, in turn, also cut down on my anxiety and instead cultivated positive feelings. Goodbye self-consciousness, and hello self-confidence!
Ahead, see some examples of my swimsuit hack in action.
