EASY WAYS TO BODY CONFIDENCE - Colour me Beautiful

Despite what the glossy magazines say and no matter how much we’re encouraged to try the latest cellulite busting diet or body firming fitness plan most of us feel less then confident about our bodies. 

If the thought of putting on your swimming costume fills you with dread don’t despair.  Your summer holiday should be something to look forward to and with a little help from colour me beautiful, Europe’s leading image consultants, you really can make sure that you look best as you lounge around the pool or spend the day lazing on the beach.  

Remember the basics.  Straight bodylines look better in geometric designs whilst florals work best on curvy figures.  It’s also important to remember the scale of the pattern.  Many swimwear designers go over the top and use large scale patterns; whilst these might look fantastic on the peg, no matter what your body shape they’ll add pounds.

Show off your neck.  A swimsuit with a square cut neckline will look best if you have a rectangular bodyline.  If you’re lucky enough to have a curvy or hourglass figure then choose a costume with a rounded neckline.  If you want to try and enhance your bust or are not sure of your body shape then choose a costume with a v-neck which will flatter most.

Lovely Legs.  If you want to give the impression of longer legs choose a bikini or costume with a high cut leg.  Just be careful though if you’re pear shaped as a high cut leg will draw attention to the fullest part of your thigh.  Many designs this season have a straight cut leg which really only suits those lucky enough to have very long legs.

It’s all in the detail.  Rectangles with little waist definition will look great in a one-piece suit with some hip or bust detail.  If you want to go for a bikini then choose the skimpiest one you feel confident wearing.  If you’re pear-shaped go for styles with detail above the waistline, don’t be tempted to wear something with a skirt or frill as it will draw attention to your hips.  If you have broad shoulders go for halter neck styles.

Support is what you need.  It is worth spending a little extra on your swimwear if you’re large busted.  There are some fantastic designs around that will provide you with the support you need.  It’s worth remembering that on a two week beach holiday your swimwear becomes your underwear and needs to give you the same support. 

Mix and Match.  If your body shape is a pear or inverted triangle, it’s worth investigating companies that sell their swimwear as separate pieces.  This way you’ll be able to find tops and bottoms that fit your differing sizes properly. 

Beautiful Backs.  No matter what your body shape, most women have great backs.  If you’re worried about showing a lot of flesh and don’t feel confident wearing styles with plunging neck lines then look for a costume with a revealing back.  Costumes with a low or revealing back are also great if you want something a little bit different.

When buying your swimwear its worth taking time over it.  If you can, try and hit the shops when it’s quieter as you’ll be able to take more time over your purchases.  If you can’t face stripping off and seeing yourself under the fluorescent glare of shop lighting then take a selection of swimwear home. You might have to take a trip back to return anything that doesn’t fit but at least you’ll be able to try your costume on at your leisure.

And Finally.  If you feel uncomfortable walking around in just your swimwear then treat yourself to a brightly coloured beach kaftan or sarong, they’ll keep you covered up and help you make the move from your room to sun lounger confidently.  One golden rule before you bare all: make sure your skin is in tip top condition and that you use high factor sun protection as nothing ages the skin quicker than exposure to the sun.

If you’re confused about your body shape and want to learn more about the styles and fabrics that will suit you best, why not visit a colour me beautiful consultant for a style consultation.  This is a great way of boosting your confidence before your holiday and you’ll also be given loads of advice that you’ll be able to use on your return when you start shopping for your autumn and winter wardrobe.