Wear the Bikini

For years, I convinced myself there were swimsuits for people like me and swimsuits for everyone else.

As a plus-size woman, I thought my only option was a one-piece with maximum coverage and minimum attention. Every summer, I searched for a swimsuit that would somehow make me look smaller, flatter, or more acceptable. I wasn't shopping for something I loved...I was shopping for something that hid me.

The message was everywhere: cover your arms, hide your stomach, wear black, and definitely don't wear a bikini.

So I didn't.

But one day, I realized something. The people having the most fun at the beach or pool weren't the people with perfect bodies. They were the people who felt free. They were swimming, laughing, taking pictures, and making memories instead of worrying about whether their stomach rolled when they sat down.

And I wanted that freedom.

The truth is, my body doesn't need to earn a bikini. It doesn't need to lose weight first. It doesn't need to look different than it does today. My body deserves sunshine, vacations, pool days, and cute swimsuits exactly as it is.

So I started buying the swimsuits I actually liked.

Bikinis. Bright colors. High-waisted bottoms. Fun prints. Cut-outs. Whatever made me feel confident and excited to get dressed.

Was it scary at first? Absolutely.

But every time I chose confidence over hiding, it got a little easier.

Now, when I put on a swimsuit, my goal isn't to look smaller. My goal is to enjoy my life.

If you're reading this and you've been waiting to wear the bikini, take the beach trip, or post the vacation photo, consider this your sign.

Wear the bikini.

Wear the two-piece.

Wear the bright color.

Wear the swimsuit that makes you smile.

Because the best swimsuit isn't the one that hides your body—it's the one that lets you enjoy your summer.

Your body is already a beach body. All it needs is a swimsuit.

What swimsuit trend are you loving this summer? Let me know in the comments!