Aaargh! Swimsuit time! Any way to make it bearable?

[Smellywelliesinyourbelly]

I'm horribly self-conscious of putting on a swimsuit/bikini. I'd like to lose a stone and be fabulously toned, but it's not going to happen. I know that everyone isn't looking at me but feel completely exposed, like I'm walking around in my underwear...
I also get beyond freezing in the water and I find it miserable instead of fun.
Any ideas? I feel sick at the thought...

What about a wetsuit? You can get some nice surf suits.
Kill two birds with one stone keep yourself warm and cover up a bit (not that anyone is really watching, but if it makes you feel more comfortable that is good).

Gin?

Seriously no one is looking. Everyone is worrying aout what they look like and there's always someone bigger than you. I say that as someone who's 3 stone overweight. Dont let it spoil your holiday.

Is this for a holiday?

Wetsuit is a good idea assuming you are going somewhere less than baking but you might look a bit weird in Greece for example in one.

I think things are improved by getting something fitted by bra size rather than dress size so from Freya or similar brand. You could look on bra stop or figleaves for a good choice.

If it is for a holiday and you feel exposed get some sort of beach cover ups for when you walk around?

The best thing you can do is realise that nobody is looking at you and nobody is bothered, they are all far too self conscious thinking about how they look in a swimming costume!

Exfoliate, wax, pedicure, fake tan. Throw all the beauty treatments at it and you'll feel fab!
Get a pretty sarong, sparkly flip flops, a gorgeous wide-brim hat...
And be happy!!

I think if you're over-covered you're more likely to get attention than if you're in a cossie/bikini. Just back from the Balearics and there were all shapes and sizes, not sure that everyone is too busy feeling self-conscious to notice you but I do think they just don't care.

Was on the coast last week and swam pretty much every day. I am a size 16 and nobody tried to harpoon me! I even sported a bikini one day. I do agree about wearing a cup sized suit/ bikini though.

If your going in the UK, or Northern Europe you could try a rash vest? Board shorts even. I often use one because I can't be bothered with the sun cream, and am often doing a mixture of body boarding, swimming, kayaking.

I wouldn't wear a rash vest when we're by a pool in the med but would if there's seizable waves that I wanted to dive in.

It depends where you are going. I don't have a lot of body confidence, but in Crete with everyone of all shapes and sizes in bikinis - a few swimsuits, but most women wear bikinis, I didn't feel self conscious at all.

There is far more choice in swimwear these days and manufacturers cater far more for different shapes and sizes. I found Debenhams offered the best range for me.

I am a little on the wobbly side (pear shaped, carrying an extra stone) and recently purchased the 50s playsuit by Resort from Very. It's measured by cup size and I think that really makes a difference. I also like the Resort halter playsuit, because of my hips, the longer leg length helps to balance my figure. Also the leg suit style of speedo etc and they can be found in Sportsdirect for just under £10. HTH

Hi - it is for holiday mystery, and I'm sure I'll calm down after a week, but the first bit I find excruciating - like a dream where you walk into the office with no clothes on!
I love the 50s playsuit and have bought a Seafolly tankini before (they're quite expensive!! but did help).
I'm looking at wetsuits too but they might be a bit much for a beach with no waves . Would anyone wear a shorty wetsuit at the swimming pool?
Thank you again, in my rational moments, I know no one is really looking...