So your boobs may be bigger, your midsection a bit wider and what are those puckers on your stomach that weren’t there before?
The thought of baring your post-baby body this summer may be freaking you out, but don’t let it!
Instead, stand tall, love your amazing body and make the most of any new assets with our 10 tips for finding the right beachwear for you…
1. Rock a retro two-piece.
Good news! Your high-waisted, 1950s-inspired bikinis from last summer are still top of the swimwear trends. As well the tummy-disguising bottoms, the tops also tend to be more substantial and supportive. Throw on some oversized sunnies and a floppy hat and you’ll have a look that is pure glamour!
2. Try out a tankini.
If you’re looking for a little more coverage than a bikini but don’t fancy a full one-piece, tankinis offer a great solution while only showing a little sliver of tum. There are loads of fashionable combos out there working the same 1950s vibe as the bikinis. You’ll feel more comfortable but still have the flexibility to mix and match if you fancy it!
3. Get some Bridget Jones pants.
Or in other words, tum-and-bum control bottoms! They come in all shapes, from high-waist to hipster shorts, and teamed with a tankini top will give a little more support if you feel you need it. There are also a whole host of gorgeous and flattering control one-pieces to choose from too – so easy to just throw on and team with a kaftan and flip flops for a day at the beach.
4. You CAN nurse at the beach!
If you’re breastfeeding never fear, a lot of swimwear styles (such as bandeau and halter tops) really do lend themselves to easy nursing. Use a kaftan or sarong if you prefer a little more privacy for you and your little one, or to cover both of you up from the sun. Alternatively, there are nursing swimsuits available to make things even easier for you.
5. Slip on a swimskirt.
If you feel self-conscious about your thighs, then swim skirts or swim dresses will keep you looking uber on-trend among the retro swimwear, while giving you a little more coverage. Try a plain black skirt that you can team with a variety of patterned bikini or tankini tops, or give a retro swim dress a go if you want to avoid accidental tum exposure.
6. Go for strategic draping.
Draping or ruching is your new best friend if there’s anything you want to draw attention away from on the beach! It’ll conceal, soften and flatter your curves giving you a sexy silhouette – and again keep you right on trend with this summer’s retro costumes!
7. Hold ‘em in a halter!
Halter necks, especially those with wider straps, minimise the bust and shoulder line and give a feminine, vintage feel that’s very ‘now’. It worked for Marilyn – let it work for you, too!
8. Try a perky peplum.
Flirty little frills at the bottom of a one-piece or tankini provide that extra bit of coverage and are darn cute to boot. This look is also right on trend and super flattering so we hope you don’t mind the admiring glances you’ll recieve by the pool!
9. Slip on a sarong.
For extra cover when you’ve finished swimming, a floaty sarong’s your answer. It also lets you show a sexy glimpse of leg or thigh – very glamorous!
10. Cover up in style.
With youngsters in tow, you’ll be playing in the sand or splashing in the shallows – a lot! A light cover-up lets you preserve your modesty and keep off the sun – try a bejewelled one with matching sparkly flip flops for a pretty look.
So find yourself the perfect beach outfit and have a ball in the water this summer – you deserve it! And dont forget: our PlayMama App makes the perfect holiday companion – full of fun learning games to keep your baby entertained by the pool or at the beach, and nothing to pack but your phone!
If you want to see more fashion tips for mums, check out our Top Summer Trends blog or visit our Pinterest!