Today’s fashion dictates that women must be incredibly thin and stores are full of ill-fitting clothing that makes the average woman feel overweight. What do you do when you are a full-size woman and wonder how to get along on the beach, in a bathing suit? Take care to highlight your best feel-good features; if you feel good about yourself, you will unconsciously project that, exuding confidence.

OWN your space:

Be proud of yourself and make an entrance whenever and wherever you go; people will automatically react positively because of their self-confidence. Think of Queen Latifah or Melissa MacCarthy. Be happy with your skin, whatever its size, and dress to bring out its positive aspects. If you have a good bust line, highlight it with good taste. Invest in a good bathing suit. There are many modern lycra blends that help you look slimmer in the middle.

Choose swimwear:

In case of swimwear, make sure it fits perfectly. It is important that you try on beachwear before buying it. You can wear a neutral color with a clever neckline that will divert attention from the middle. Go for halter necks, shoulder ties, knots, gathers, and asymmetrical neckline swimsuits. These styles will divert attention from the center section. Try on your bathing suit before you buy and feel free to buy good quality mixed material swimwear that will give you better support when trying to make yourself look slimmer.

What to avoid:

If you try to wear something smaller and then end up suffering a wardrobe malfunction, it will be disastrous. Try to avoid large prints or very strong contrasting colors; buy something with a touch of color on one side. For example, if you are shopping for a single brown or blue piece, a bright hint of yellow or orange asymmetrical design will change the entire look of the costume. Be mindful of what suits your body type and appearance, and dress accordingly to feel comfortable. If you are comfortable with your skin, confidence will automatically follow.

Choose wisely:

Knowing what is right for you and dressing accordingly can make you feel like a million dollars. Learn how to identify the best colors for your skin tone and the best shapes for your physique. Even if you are a Curvy Kate, that doesn’t mean you have to hide.

Be healthy; beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Live life. Queen size should be your motto. As long as you like looking in the mirror, nothing else matters. Be true to yourself, behave with poise, confidence and grace, and you will wow people on the beach, whatever the size of your swimsuit!