Ah, summer in the suburbs—a time filled with beach days and backyard barbecues, but also a season that can bring a whole lot of anxiety about swimwear. After years of pairing ill-fitting swimsuits with board shorts and strategically using my kids as shields, I finally decided it was time to invest in my very first official “mom suit.”
Leaving the kids at home (trust me, don’t even think about bringing them along), I made my way to the mall early that Saturday morning. It wasn’t a fun experience, and let me tell you, there were some cringe-worthy moments, but after several hours, I emerged victorious with a chic black one-piece that not only concealed my backside but also gave the illusion of curves. And yes, I snagged a stylish cover-up as well.
After trying on too many unflattering suits, I began to notice patterns in what worked and what didn’t (goodbye, bikinis!). While body types and gym habits will vary, here are some tips that helped me find a swimsuit I actually liked:
- Straps Matter
Support is key! Especially when you have young kids who might find a strapless suit too tempting to resist. I tried on a sleek strapless design, but immediately envisioned my toddler tugging it down at the pool. Nope, not happening! - Full Coverage (Skirt Optional)
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t keen on buying a skirted swimsuit—I’ve always preferred board shorts. But I was pleasantly surprised to find that grown-up suits can provide plenty of coverage without resorting to those awful floral skirts from childhood. There are stylish options out there! - Solid Colors Are Your Best Bet
I adore a fun pattern, but sometimes they can be overwhelming. If you’re like me and haven’t hit the gym regularly since your younger days, sticking to solid colors or color blocks can be more flattering. I ended up with a basic black suit, but if I’d found a retro red halter in my size, I would have snatched that up too! - Embellishments and Ruching Are Your Friends
Surprisingly, a bit of bling can elevate a mom suit! I discovered some elegant gold accents and tasteful ruffles. But don’t underestimate the magic of ruching—it’s like a secret weapon that camouflages those extra pizza slices you’ve snagged from your child’s plate. Seriously, who doesn’t appreciate a little extra help in that area? - Embrace Your Current Self
Here’s the most important rule: don’t try to turn back the clock. Most of us don’t have the same bodies we did in our 20s. Unless you have the resources of a celebrity, it’s unlikely you’ll achieve a perfect figure. Instead, focus on finding a suit that highlights your favorite features and let go of the rest. When you feel confident in your skin, summer fun is so much easier!
Now, where did I put that cover-up?
For more on navigating motherhood, check out some of our other posts at Home Insemination Kit. If you’re looking for the best home insemination options, Cryobaby offers excellent kits, and Hopkins Medicine is a fantastic resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
This article offers practical tips for choosing a flattering swimsuit that enhances your confidence, emphasizing the importance of support, coverage, and embracing your body as it is. With a focus on stylish options and body positivity, the piece encourages moms to feel great at the poolside this summer.