Dear Jellybean,
I am needing a new bathing suit. But I have kind of a big butt and I find that the bikin-style bathing suit bottoms, my butt kind of hangs out the sides, and welll most bathing suits do that to people but I don't really like it. So I was thinking that boy shorts would be good for bottoms. What kind of bathing suit would be good for my body?
-Mel
Dear Mel,
Bathing suit season can be so stressful. Choosing the right suit can go a long way toward making you feel better. If you feel like your butt is too big, but you want to wear a bikini, go for a patterned top in a halter style, and solid-color bottoms. The pattern on the top will draw attention upwards, and away from what you consider your "problem" area. Choose bikini bottoms in a dark color, like black, dark brown or navy blue, which is minimizing.
Boy shorts are definitely flattering, as they provide good coverage of the hips and bottom, and don't leave you flapping out there in the breeze like string- bikini bottoms. Or, if you've got a fairly flat tummy, you could choose a regular bikini botom with a lower rise, but high-cut legs. This can flatter the body by making legs look longer, and bringing attention to your middle.
Whatever suit you choose, remember to rock it with confidence. There's nothing quite so distracting - in a good way - as a girl who walks like she knows she looks good. That goes double when you're wearing a bathing suit. Hey, there are only so many swimsuit models in the world. The rest of us have a whole bunch of unique flaws, or at least we think we do. Better to buy a pretty suit that makes you happy, than a boring suit that's supposed to hide what's real about you.
Finally, don't forget about the power of a pretty cover-up! If you're on the shy side, stroll or lounge poolside in a cute robe, a sarong skirt casually knotted at your hip, or a long T-shirt, when you're not actually swimming. Smile like you know you look good, have fun with your friends, and enjoy the feeling that comes with focusing on other stuff besides your so-called imperfections.
