Swimwear tips for the unconfident

[DarkDarkNight]

I'm going away in June and I'm determined to get in the pool. I haven't actually worn swimwear in public in 8 years, even then I had a rash vest over the top. I'm aware that body confidence is my main issue. I've lost some weight but want to lose another 2 stone. The idea of people seeing me in swimwear make me feel ill.

Opinions/recommendations on body sculpting, tummy flattening suits please or will they just draw attention to something I'm trying to hide?

I like quite a retro style, but I'm not a fan of halter necks as I don't like the feel of them. I've seen a nice striped one in Fat Face and seen some nice ones in Next, and quite like just plain Speedo/Adidas functional ones as well.

I like this style and colourway from Boden, but not so much the price tag.

[Swimminguphill]

Can I recommend bodyposipanda on instagram to help you get in a positive frame of mind! If you can see past the fact that she is clearly young and gorgeous and in no need of fake tan, she often features women of all sizes in their swimwear and underwear. It’s really uplifting! Also brummymummyof2 does an annual picture of herself in swimwear on holiday. Don’t let your body image control your life. We all deserve to be able to enjoy the feeling of sun on our skin (with dog obvs) and floating in the water.

[Swimminguphill]

Whaat!? Should be SPF not dog?!

[Jacksback]

It's really not about the suit , it's about your confidence . Do whatever makes you feel better about your body , tan ( fake) pretty toes , flattering sun hat ( not a mans pork pie type )
But honestly no one cares
They are too busy enjoying their holiday and even if they do ' think' of you it will be along the lines of good on you !
Nothing worse imo of seeing someone on a hot day trying to cover up unnecessarily .
Btw I am 16 /18 , wrong side of 50 , cellulite , no waist to speak of and I walked nude. Yes nude on a nudist beach in Greece with my dp , honestly no one cares 😊
Happy holidays - enjoy

[specialsubject]

June in the med? Boardshorts in a length that suits, bikini top, rash vest over. Keep the uv off and dry quickly.

Swimsuits take ages to dry and please not with those awful skirts, make your arse look enormous.

[Spangles7]

Gradual tan e.g. Dove rather than fake tan- I have Irish pale skin. It makes you feel less naked. Pretty wedge sandals, delicate casual jewellery, beautiful floppy straw sunhat, huge shades. Next and M and S are good for sarongs, over sized linen kaftans, beach dresses etc. So the only time you are actually wearing only your carefully chosen swimming costume is when you are walking down to the sea for swimming.

[TheButterflyOfTheStorms]

Sirens. Australian company. Wait for sales though, they're not cheap!

[Clearoutre]

I haven’t found anything as effective as a tiered ruffle tankini for disguising a tummy in swimwear - paired mine with high waisted bikini bottoms and did a fantastic job.

[igotdaboobies]

I am a size 18 and got these on amazon and loved them! They look really nice on while still being supportive and holding everything in! I got lots of compliments while wearing them - from DH and slimmer ladies as well! (Shock, horror!)

Absolutely agree also with nice accessories, hair, tan and for me tinted eyebrows and lashes so I have a bit of facial definition that won't wash off in the water!

Spoil yourself op and find that confidence! You'll feel amazing 😉

[Mamaohana]

You can get the blue m and s one from unthread with a little built in skirt. I tried in on and it was actually very flattering. I carry my weight around my middle and the skirt made my hips look slightly larger and my body slightly longer so it gave the appearance of a more shapely body. The skirt was very short though so not good if you want to cover tops of legs.

[OldGuard]

This one hides all sorts of sins
www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7PR27T/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apip_DnZUzW3yT2NwS?tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-21

[igotdaboobies]

Just realised I didn't include pictures...🤦🏻‍♀️

[BuckingFrolicks2]

Just bought that swimsuit!

[DarkDarkNight]

Thank you all. Lots of good options here, thank you. I'm really self conscious about the top of my legs (because of stretch marks) so may go for a lower cut leg like on the vintage style swim suits or a tankini with short-style bottoms.
I

[OldGuard]

I was super surprised by the one I bought (above) - I didn’t feel like a walrus and my daughter even said I looked nice in it (and she’s brutal when it comes to comments on clothes)

Can highly recommend

Good luck