Take my advice—if you're at the shopping mall, and the mood suddenly strikes you to try on bathing suits, don't do it. Bikini shopping should only be a planned event, preferably first thing in the morning when your tummy is nice and flat, before any bloating sets in. Also, if the store has a good return policy for swimwear, try the suit on in the comfort of your own home.
Lately I've been feeling pretty good about my diet and workout regime. So when I was at the mall and suddenly Old Navy came into view, I thought, why not try a few suits on. They're very affordable and have a great variety. I have a beach vacation planned for the end of July, so there's no time like the present to get organized.
While I had to give myself a thumb's up for spontaneity, I should have factored in a few things:
1. After three long work days (we are on deadline this week), I was super tired and more sensitive than usual.
2. The change rooms in Old Navy do absolutely nothing to flatter the body. Harsh lights, small spaces and concrete floors make for a rather dreary environment.
3. I was shopping alone. Bathing suit shopping is always more successful when you have a companion and they can give a second opinion. We are our own worst critics!
To sum up, I left the store and the mall feeling a little dejected. But lesson learned. Next time I will be more prepared, full of energy, perhaps with a layer of self-tanner, and my mom or sister by my side!
Dear Stacy
ReplyDeleteIts good to know someone feels the same way I do!! With summer around the corner is there anyway Oxygen can dedicate maybe 2 pages worth to swimsuits!!! I need the motivation!! And your models would be great way to show other women you don't have to be a size 2 and 17 years old to look great in one!
I hear you, Stacy - I always try on bikinis at home. Funny enough, last night I was doing just that. The suit was a beautiful color, and it was a bit more athletic than most of the ones I usually wear which I like - but once I got it on and took a gander at myself in the mirror, it was obvious it wasn't the one for me. Years ago I might have blamed my body, but now I realize that it's all a matter of style. I'll find my perfect bikini for the summer of '11 soon enough!
ReplyDeleteAfter years of frustration in the dressing room, I realized that sometimes the swimsuit is the problem and not my body. So many "almost" fit. I found a pretty "almost" bikini a month ago on sale, and altered it to fit me perfectly. It could be as simple as moving/shortening the straps to give your bust a boost. Where there's a will there's a way! An honest friend helps too!
ReplyDeleteFluorescent lighting does not help!'
ReplyDeleteI was going to say.. make sure you spray tan first!!!
ReplyDelete