I’ve never been skinny or what society would deem as “sexy”. You know, the billboard, Instagram-celeb type. But that’s the standard we see everywhere we look. Skinny girls with amazing bone structure, and legs that go on for days. I have nothing against skinny girls (either if its genetic jackpot or product of hardwork, congrats), but what about the rest of us?
And so growing up, just like many of you, I did struggle with accepting my body for what it is. There was a lot of insecurity planted in me, even until my early adult life. It was a long road to acceptance.
READ: 7 Important Life Lessons You Learn from Traveling
But I am here now. In a much better relationship with myself. I am working on a healthier lifestyle and mindset, but dear ones, please know that no matter what lifestyle you’re living, don’t EVER let anyone dictate you what you can or cannot wear. Repeat after me: YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL THE WAY YOU ARE.
I feel sorry for girls who feel ashamed of their bodies especially at the beach. They’re wearing this cutesie bikini, but they’re making such effort to cover their stomachs and thighs. They won’t pose for a picture. But if there’s one thing I learned about being an island girl, when you’re at the beach, honestly, no one cares. Everyone will be busy having a good time. You should be, too.
So if you need a little push in the confidence department, well here it is. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you rock that bikini, even when you’re not exactly skinny (like me):
Confidence is key.
You know how some people just look good no matter what they wear? And I mean, whatever they wear. They can be wearing a tattered white shirt, shorts, and flip flops but still look cool. Same as at the beach. I’ve seen curvy, plus size women wearing two piece bikinis at beaches and still look HOT. So yes, my bbs, it really is all in the confidence.
If you are confident in your own skin, it shows, and that sh*t looks beautiful on anyone.
Get acquainted with your body.
It’s true, those people who look seemingly confident are people who know their bodies well. They know what type of bikinis would look good on them, what cut, what color. So do experiment. Try on as many bikinis as you can and figure out what types look best on you. But remember, this is not about you hiding your flaws. There is no reason to be ashamed of your weird stretchmarks or muffin tops; those are common! This is about accentuating your assets. There is a big difference between the two.
PS: A booty tooch wouldn’t hurt, too. You know, when you arch your back to lift your booty a bit?
Haters gonna hate.
I’m not gonna lie, some people will always find something to say. Those people are out there. But you know what? Screw them! Just recently I posted a photo of myself in my social media in a one-piece bikini in El Nido and a stranger actually had the gall to comment: “Ang taba.” [How fat.] There was a time in my life when that would have hurt my feelings, maybe even cry about it, but I’m in a good place now. I just brushed that off, went on with my life, and took more photos to post online. :p
Listen: if someone has a problem with what you’re wearing, honey, that’s their problem, not yours. #byefelicia
This was that photo. Yes I have chubby thighs. And stretch marks! 🙂
Don’t forget the best accessory—smile.
This is so, so, so true. I’ve met a lot of true blue island girls and always, I notice that their best asset is their smile. They just radiate! They glow like the sun! Perhaps because the beach makes you happy? Well, I know it has that effect on me. So the next time you are at the beach, darling just smile, smile, smile!
Just enjoy.
Seriously, just throw all your worries out the window. If you have the chance to go to the beach or to a pool party, then it means you have the chance to unwind. Why let your mind be bothered with unnecessary things? Just live in the moment and just be. When you look back at those memories a year or two after, you won’t be remembering your muffin top or the annoying fact that you wished you had a thigh gap, right? You’d be remembering all the good times you had with your friends. The laughter. The good drinks. The jokes that never seem to get old. Which is why you should be focusing on that instead—having the best damn time.
How did you get past your body insecurities? I’d love to hear your stories. Tell me all about them! Leave a comment, or write to me at www.facebook.com/wheninmanilanicole
Let’s have a chat and let’s all foster GRLPOWER! xx
–
Liked the bikinis in this article? I got them all from Pearly Pop Swimwear, my favorite swimsuit shop online. Not only are the designs absolutely lovely, I can vouch for the quality, too. No cheap fabrics here! Plus, everything fits so well. Another factor to add to my confidence meter.
Check out Pearly Pop Swimwear online, and follow them on the following accounts:
Pearly Pop Swimwear
www.facebook.com/pearlypopswim
Instagram: @pearlypopswimwear
