Beach Body? I Think So!!

Hi all, and Happy December!

This month we're raising awareness for the fight against AIDS and Impaired Driving Prevention. Let's make sure we're all safe, not only in this holiday season, but all 12 months of this year.

While researching stuff for the blog, I came across this video from Refinery29. I'd like to share it with you all because I think it captures the true essence of Oh My Swimsuit.

Body Image Video

I am sincerely interested in finding out what went through your mind as you were watching this video. Were you reminded of an awful bathing suit shopping experience? Or of times you looked at yourself in the mirror and hated something about yourself?

It's OK if you did; at some point in our lives (pretty much throughout all our lives, actually) we end up comparing ourselves to so called "perfect" women, and automatically feel bad about ourselves because we're not the spitting image of what we see on TV or in magazines.

Having said that, I hope you all felt even if a little bit of inspiration from today's post. There are so many things those lovely women said that I could comment on, but bottom line is there are so many different types of women, of beauty, and all we need to do in order to have a beach body is to pick our favorite swimsuit and make our way to the beach!! How liberating is it to know that your body is a beach body! High fives all around!!

What I want you all to remember is to first and foremost love yourselves and your bodies. They're our greatest instrument and we should all be proud of what it enables us to do. Once you've mastered that, anything is possible. If we're all different, why should we all want to look the same in a swimsuit? Fins the one that makes you feel like a queen, then get out there and rock it!

Happy Swimsuit hunting!

Quoting The Quote

Hi all,

I know you all have been waiting for a blog post for a few days now, but not to worry because here I am! 

I've been going around in circles deciding on what to write about this week. Not that I'm lacking topics; there are so many awesome brands out there that I'd love to show you and comment on. But, I guess what's been knowing at my brain the most is our perception of how we look in pictures. Let me get a bit more into this:

Why is it that we automatically have the most critical eye when we're looking at our own reflection? I gotta tell you, it's amazing how many of you all love my blog and tell me again and again how much you appreciate the work I do; but wouldn't be caught dead posing as my model for a day! Now why is that? I get the exposure factor; we all end up facing it from time to time when we go on our all inclusive vacations or at our annual pool parties, and we're happy to pose for pictures then. So why is it that the possibility of someone actually seeing us online make it so terrifying? 

Think about it: we have no problem posting endless pictures of ourselves on social media, a lot of times pictures that are less than flattering. But a little more skin exposure leads to a complete mental block... what exactly is it that we feel we hide behind our clothes?

Now, I know you all may not think that swimsuit pictures are appropriate for social media. And fair enough. Perhaps we don't want to be exposed in our most vulnerable outfit. But here's the thing: if we're willing to go out in public wearing our swimsuits, aren't we exposed already? And what exactly is the point of putting on a swimsuit? Is it to enjoy an activity around water, or to wait on other people's judgements?

All I'm saying is that I would love for you all to put your doubts and fears aside and rock your swimsuits. Always. Whether someone is taking your picture, or you're just out relaxing in the sun, your attitude should not change. And even if you think you look horrible (you don't!), I can guarantee you there will be more people who disagree with your opinion than you think. Again, we want to be friendly to ourselves, not critics.

Before I go, there's a quote I'd like to share with you all from an account I follow on Instagram called The Good Quote. Sometimes all we need is for someone to word things in a way we can understand and relate, ao I'm quoting the quote! Hope that, after reading this, you all understand where I'm coming from, and think about sunsets before criticizing your photos.

Wishing you all a fabulous week ahead!

Bring Out The Feel Great!

Apologies for the delay, I've been busy all week with many assignments. My favorite was writing one of my best friend's birthday cards! I don't know about you all, but I tend to write pretty long card messages... I think people appreciate the effort. 

About my friend: we have a very special history, one I feel is blog material. So I thought I'd write about that today. Hope you all enjoy it; I'm sure you all have that special friend that makes your life a lot brighter.

We've been friends for over 25 years, although we haven't lived in the same city for 21 of them. Yet we've always managed to keep in touch (yes, we're from the time people wrote letters on a regular basis), and throughout so many years we've shared many happy, and a lot of times many funny memories together. We were French public speaking champions at our school, actors in the Christmas play, pen pals for the longest time, lost tourists in Berlin and Prague, almost millionaires (I swear we came up with the perfect book title once, but couldn't remember it the next day), and we've also created a lot of our own traditions along the way. My favorite is our birthday card competition; it's been going on for ages, pushing us each year to become more creative and humorous. 

During our last trip together to Austin, Texas, we went to check out Barton Springs Pool. It was a very hot day and we wanted to get our tans going. While chilaxing in the sunshine, we started to chat about swimwear. OK, mostly me going on about other people's swimsuit choices. Not criticizing them, per se, but pointing out potential enhancements I thought could be made. That's when she started to tell me about her suit: where she bought it, how much she liked it, etc. She must have noticed my silence as soon as she finished talking, because she immediately said: "you obviously don't agree with my choice! " 

So, here's the deal. Yeah, I have opinions about which types of swimsuits look better against certain body types, certain skin tones, and all that, but none of that replaces the "feel great" attitude someone wears when they find what to them is the perfect suit. Sure, I could always give my opinion when asked, but that doesn't mean it's the the one and only truth. It is important to keep in mind that we each have our styles and preferences, and we're not always going to agree. The only thing I insist we agree on is finding the swimsuit that brings out the "feel great" attitude in you. So long as you rock whatever you decide to wear, we will always be good :)

And doesn't she look great? Happy Birthday, my dear!!

Some November Awareness

Happy November, you all! 

This month is filled with holidays and awareness causes. Did you know that, besides Movember, this month is also Stomach Cancer and Transgender Awareness month? 

Not that any of this month's causes less important than others, but today I'm doing my part in raising awareness for Transgenders. Although there has been so much progress made in the last few years, there's still a lot of work to be done, and a lot of respect to be earned. 

Lea T - You're Beautiful!

Since I started sharing my ideas with you all, the main focus has been to encourage self love and acceptance. Once we've mastered that, finding a swimsuit is the fun part. Now, take a moment to think of how many times we've looked at ourselves and didn't necessarily like what we saw, I'm sure it has happened way more times than it probably should have. But that aside, our blessing is that, although we were looking into a mirror and finding flaws, we recognized ourselves in the reflexion. We weren't looking at ourselves thinking "here I am in a girl's body, but really I am a man", or vice-versa. Yet transgender people face that thought pretty much every day of their lives, especially when living without any support or encouragement to become who they really are. And we haven't gotten to the part about the rejection they suffer from the outside world yet. 

I know that a lot of times it's hard for us to support what we don't understand. But the truth is, we could always use our imaginations to put ourselves in another person's situation and have a pretty accurate idea of what they're going through and how they may feel. And once we've reached that point, there's no going back, we can't help but stand by and offer our assistance to those who need it. So I say we take a moment today and put ourselves in Transgender shoes, just to see how we feel. I am sure a lightbulb will come on.

Here at OMS I encourage you all to find your beauty, strength, self love and respect. And I'm here to state that when I say all, I mean it! And I know that you are all out there finding beauty not only within yourselves, but in others around you as well. Make sure you keep on doing that; we never know how far a little support will go!

Wishing you all an amazing month of November, with lots of love and support!

Would a Time Machine Really Be That Helpful?

I've recently experienced the "run into the ex-boyfriend" encounter; it was at a bar in my neighborhood. Those situations are pretty few and far between in my life, but this guy was one of the good ones. For the longest time, I carried the "What if" feeling about him: what if things had been different? What if I'd fought a little bit harder? What if things had worked out the way we'd initially planned?

As soon as I caught myself opening up that can of worms, I immediately shut it down. You see, we tend to fantasize about situations we didn't get to experience (or at least about the ones that didn't go the way we wanted them to) as if there were something we could have done to change their outcome, how our lives would automatically have turned out so much better. We end up forgetting the reasons why things didn't work out in the first place, literally choose to focus only on the good parts, and a lot of times even embellish them, turning what really happened into some fairy tale style occasion. 

Don't get me wrong, there's absolutely no shame in a little day dreaming or trips down memory lane, especially if those memories really were good ones. But that has to stop the moment we start to question the paths we took and the results of the decisions we made. Truth is we all make our decisions based on what we know at the time, and how we feel. Therefore, there's no point in dwelling in the "had I knowns" or in the "what ifs", simply because we can't change the past. And even if it were possible to go back in time, that would only take us back to what we know and felt when we made those decisions, so pretty much all of our choices would be the exact same. Interesting, don't you all think?

So, if a time machine won't help, then perhaps we should all start looking more within when we're faced with decisions. How we felt about things in the past is no indicator of how we'll feel in the future, and trying to predict how things will turn out is an even greater setup for disappointment. Just think of how many times you didn't wear something you really wanted to because you were afraid of what others would think, and ended up frustrated with the outfit you ended up picking instead. It's happened to me, and I've learned that how I feel is the most important thing to consider when making my decisions. 


Let's all vow to look within ourselves the next time we are faced with a tough (or any) decision. There's no better source of knowledge or courage, and it's also the best guarantee we won't have any regrets. And that goes for everything: from "should I move across the country?" to "do I look good in this swimsuit?" Haha, yes! I had to throw that in there! You all know what I'm about!

I know you all will rise to the occasion the next time you need to make a decision. And it will feel great!! 

Happy Halloween to you all!! Remember to wear whatever costume you feel like, and have all the fun there is to be had. See you all next week!!

The Buddy System

Hi you all,

If you’re Canadian, or have been following the Prime Minister elections, you know that a lot of change is on its way. For the first time in a long time, the Liberal Party been elected with a majority government! Pretty impressive stuff, considering how close the projections were. Hope all you Canadians went out and voted; as the great Mahatma Gandhi said, we must “be the change we want to see in the world”. And whether you voted Liberal or not, the important thing is you got a chance to state your opinion. Stop and think for a second how fortunate we all are just for having the right to do that.

But now that the election is over, does this mean our work is done? Absolutely not! Quite the contrary, actually. It’s one thing to ask for change, but another to actually get up and be a part of it. OK, I get it, we can’t all be politicians; to be honest most of us wouldn’t touch those jobs with a 10 foot pole. But we’re still responsible for monitoring our leaders closely, and keeping them in check. We’re their “accountability buddies”, and because we want to make sure they succeed, we have to make sure we follow up with them, correct?

All this politics stuff got me thinking about accountability partners. Truth is, and studies have showed, that we’re way more likely to succeed in situations where we have not only the support of others, but when we can experience challenges together. The bond created during challenge is so strong, most of us would be very disappointed in letting our accountability buddies down. So basically, we’re setting ourselves up for a way better chance at success if we have someone to either support us through the journey, or run the journey with us. So here’s my question for you all: are you really ready to be the change you’d like to see in your life? If the answer is yes, then either you’ve already chosen an accountability buddy, or you’re going over your list of friends and deciding who it is you’d like to pick. Don’t worry if the answer is no; just knowing that there are changes that you’d like to make is a good start. 

Now, here’s a fun experiment for you: next time you go swimsuit shopping, make a decision that you’ll have a good experience, and take an accountability buddy with you. That way if you stumble upon a bikini that doesn’t look so great, you’ll have someone there to say “on to the next one”, or “maybe we should try another color”, or anything else. The important thing is that we’re keeping a positive mind, which will make finding a swimsuit that you like a much easier and enjoyable task. And let’s face it: wouldn’t it be nice, for a change, to put your swimsuit on, look into a mirror, and the first thing we hear to be a compliment, or some encouragement? If your inner voice still needs some training (and don’t let it get the better of you, btw!!), then let your accountability partner do the work. Trust me, it is WAY more fun, and more likely that you’ll achieve your goal.

Happy Swimsuit Hunting!! And let me know how the experiment works for you all!

From Inner Critic To Inner Cheerleader

Happy, Happy Thursday!!

Not sure if any of you all have seen this Special K commercial, but if you haven't, please do so before you keep on reading.

OK, is it just me or is the "I hate my body moment" coming around way too often? Please tell me this number made you think! I guess what's also scary is that we probably saw that and thought "yeah! That sounds about right!"

Don't feel bad if you did, that is what we call a habit. We eat, sleep and breathe this behavior: to look at ourselves in the mirror, overlook all the positives, and focus strictly on the negatives. Negatives that, most of the times, are way more obvious to us than they are to everyone else. And, negatives according to us; because to some people (and by that I mean a lot of people) the things we like least about ourselves are exactly what they think  makes us beautiful. 

But let's forget about what people think about us for a minute, and focus on something different. If hating our bodies is a habit we've developed, then learning to love our bodies is also possible, correct? What if we took that negative thought we have every single day and changed it to something positive? How big of an impact would that be?

Honestly, huge! Feeling good about yourself unleashes all sorts of positive consequences. It's a ripple effect; one which depends completely on us! Now, if changing a negative thought into a positive one can have such a big change in ourselves, imagine the size of the change if each and every one of us did that exact same thing! 

Even more than owning it all, I'd like for you all to make a moment to think of the amount of change we could generate if we, once a day, thought smiling more, or learning something new, or anything that is considered encouraging. We could dream big and think daily about how to cure cancer, end world hunger, conquer world peace... Wouldn't that be a much better use of our time, and our thoughts?

Yes, I completely agree that we should "tell that inner voice to shut up and proudly own it all", that's what you all have been hearing me say since I started this journey. But I know that we could go beyond that. So I'm counting on you all to dream big, and listen to your inner voice; because it'll be saying: You're awesome! Keep going because you're doing great! 

So here's your homework for the week: let's change the term inner critic (inner voice, little voice inside, etc.) into inner cheerleader, inner support, inner friend, and see what happens. 

See you all soon!! 

Go Out And Seek Inspiration

Hi you all,

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen that this week we’ve been looking at some fall colored swimsuits. And although I’ve been inspired by colors that reflected the weather here in Vancouver, I think I need to follow my own advice and let all colors of fall inspire me, not just the ones that reflect the current color of the sky. So there I was, walking my talk and seeking inspiration not just in what I could see, but also in what I’d like to see  and feel. 

There are some that say we attract the things we want in life. I can say that I agree with that, to a certain extent. Of course I feel that we should cultivate positive thoughts and goals, and have them in our minds at all times. But, answer me this: is just thinking about something enough to make it happen? Personally, I don’t think so. And there’s no right or wrong, I think we all feel differently about what is known as the Law of Attraction, but in my case, I decided to go out and look for the inspiration I was seeking, instead of hoping that at some point it would come to me. 

The interesting thing about that process is that, although you have a picture in mind, you really have no idea what to expect. To some that may be a bit outside their comfort zone, but think about it: how often is it that things happen EXACTLY as we expect them to? Not very often, correct? Truth is uncertainty is around us all the time, so we could either embrace it, fear it, or kid ourselves thinking we’re in control of it all. Again, to each their own, but I decided to go with the flow and see where my search for inspiration would take me.

Funny enough, it didn’t take me very far. I’m sure you all remember the blog post about Lace Embrace Atelier, and also the one about Scout Boutique here in Vancouver. So, a couple of days ago, on my way to a bookstore, I past by Scout Boutique’s window and found the inspiration I was looking for. This gorgeous one piece suit that I could just see so many of you in, accessorized perfectly! And, check out the color! Is this fall inspiration or what?

Remember you all: don't wait for inspiration to come your way, go out and look for it! Who knows where you'll end up and what you'll see, but I guarantee you all will enjoy not just the outcome, but the process as well.

To my Canadian readers, Happy Thanksgiving! See you all next week!

To Norway, With Love

Today’s post is based on a true and very recent life experience. 

Although I spend a lot of my downtime with swimsuit related activities, this year I have developed a very guilty pleasure: Netflix! I just love the idea of no commercials, and watching a series from start to finish. Since I don’t spend a lot of time watching TV, when I do I like to get as much good stuff as I can in there, so no commercials allowed. It was during one of my Netflix binges that I got hooked on a show called Lilyhammer, a show starred by no other than Steven Van Zandt, member of Bruce Springsteen’s band. To be honest I’m not really sure why I chose it, but I am really glad I did. The show has the beautiful sceneries, very sharp writing, and super talented actors switching between Norwegian and English. It is a gooder, you all should definitely check it out. Just FYI I just started season 3, so please no spoilers!

So, a few days ago I got received an email from a family member, stating that some of her relatives were in Vancouver, and if I could perhaps show them around. As you may have noticed, I love to show off this gorgeous city, so I of course said yes, and on Sunday went to meet the new members of my extended family. So we meet, head to Seasons in the Park for brunch, and as we’re chatting and sipping mimosas, I learn that live in no other than… NORWAY!! How cool is life when it throws these fun little coincidences at you? And you may be wondering why that didn’t occur to me in the first place, so let me explain. The family member who originally contacted me is from New Zealand, so I didn’t think twice about where these two lovely ladies were from, just assumed they were Kiwis as well. I wasn’t completely wrong; one is a kiwi but has lived in Norway for a long time, but the other is a true Norwegian. Anyway, I know it may not sound as exciting to some of you, but I was pretty pleased that it just so happened that when I got  hooked on a show from Norway, I also met some extended Norwegian family members. Definitely made me smile!

So, in honor of Norway, my new extended family members, and the pleasant surprises in life, I would like to introduce you all to Monica Hansen. Monica is a famous Norwegian model and miss Norway 1997, and is now designing her own line of swimwear. Aiming at the fashionable and trendy 20’s and 30’s crowd, Monica has truly been walking her talk by posing in swimsuits she’s created, and is scheduled to have her website fully running by October of this year. Which means that from now until the end of the month, we could visit her site and check out her designs. For now, check out her slideshare, tumblr and blog for more info.

Norge er et vakkert land!! 

Be In The Water

Fall in the northern hemisphere, officially. Although some places here in Canada are still getting pretty reasonable temperature, the early morning bike ride to work definitely requires another layer or two! 

Does that mean our swimsuit season is over? Not by any means! We may not necessarily be wearing our swimsuits outdoors (at least not here in Canada), but as we’ve mentioned before, most of our fall and winter activities will at some point require us to show more skin. Just as an example, we love our winter sports and many of us go away on weekends to hotels or cabins for that purpose. I could be wrong, but I’m pretty sure most of those places have hot tubs and jacuzzis. Who doesn’t love sitting in one of those after a long day of exercise? And what do we wear while in there? Swimsuits! 

I’ve recently listened to a podcast that said this time of year is actually just as busy January for getting back into shape. And the reason for that is we spend all summer doing everything we possibly can to soak it all in, and our bodies pay the price as a result. Somehow it’s not as important to follow your workout schedule when all the rest of your friends are waiting for you at the beach. Fair enough! So now is the time where many of you all make new resolutions and get back to a regular routine of exercise and better diet. I’d like to take that as another example of how our fall and winter activities can also include swimwear. 

My suggestion to you all today is to try activities in the water. Not only does being in the water give your body a relaxing sensation, but it’s also proven that exercising in the water goes toe to toe with any other activity when it comes to burning fat and calories. Plus, you’ve got the added bonus that there is barely any impact, so injuries are far less likely to occur. And, hello!! Gorgeous swimsuits!! That alone should be a good enough reason for you all! 

Whatever your goal is, I suggest you add a water activity to your routine. Simply being in the water relaxes our bodies and releases tension. Whether you want to do it as exercise or as a relaxation after a long day, the one thing to remember is that, although the weather is no longer as swimsuit friendly as it was a month ago, that’s no reason to put your swimsuits away just yet. Keep rocking those awesome suits because I know you all will look fantastic whether you’re indoors or out.

Happy Swimsuit Hunting!

Continuing Down the Sexy Swimsuit Lane

Hi all,

As promised, we’re continuing down the path of sexy swimsuit lane. I hope you all enjoy what you’re about to see, but also understand that these are not suggestions to each and every one of you. Although I encourage you all to face your fears and step outside your comfort zone, I know that those boundaries are different for us all, and only we are able to truly define how big of a risk we are comfortable taking. Just remember to always keep an open mind, and who knows? Maybe tomorrow, or next week, or at your next vacation you’ll be coming back here to get some swimsuit ideas!

Let's begin with this tiny piece from Banco de Areia. Because the print is so beautiful and unique, it almost doesn't seem like this look is super small, which is very flattering. But those bottoms... take a good look! Not only do you have to be super confident (you don't want to be fixing them every step you take) but you also must make sure those knots are tied really tight! This type of bottom is mostly worn by women with narrower hips, but that's not to say it's the only way to go. If you have wider hips but are a fan of this shape, just make sure you don't pull on the knots too tight; you don't want the lines creating an unnecessary layer of skin. Otherwise, this model of swimsuit is very feminine, and can be adapted to whatever size you all are comfortable with. This particular one is in fact very tiny, but I'm sure we all agree that it is gorgeous! 

Not sure what I meant about the "extra layer of skin"? No problem. The next picture illustrates that perfectly. Notice where the skin around her hips (more noticeable on the left hip) seems to be popping out? And she is in amazing shape, so no that's not the issue. It's an important thing to keep in mind when we're purchasing swimsuits; the thinner the strings, the more likely they are to create that lump, especially if they're being pulled too tight. Now, the swimsuit is very, very sexy, but if I were to make one remark would be for that string to be a little bit looser. God knows we already struggle with the bumps we can't hide so there's no need to create ones that don't exist! This suit can be found at Cia Marítima, along with the next one we'll be looking at.

I know we're talking bikinis, but I couldn't help but add this lovely one piece to my list of sexy swimsuits. It's not just that the print is gorgeous; it just all seems to be just the right amount of opening on the sides as well. Clearly it is a bold neckline, but if you have a chest like hers (or any type of chest that holds its ground), then I say why not? I absolutely love this suit, it's different, sexy, super fashionable and modern. Plus, unlike the two previous suits, this one fits quite a few different body shapes. I wouldn't go play beach volleyball in it, but otherwise well done!

I'd like to end with what you all refer to as a Brazilian Bikini. This particular one from Via Sol Brazil is quite small, especially the bottom part, but so far nothing too different than what we've seen. It is when we turn this lady around that we get a good look. Mind you, Brazilian bikinis are usually small in the back, but this particular one is smaller than average. It's what we call a "fio dental" (dental floss in English). Although it is very exposed, notice that you can still clearly see the print, it's not just a string that begins at the waist. In my opinion, that is a very important detail because it shapes the back of the swimsuit in a way more flattering way than if it were shaped like a regular thong. Basically it reveals a lot, but keeps enough swimsuit fabric in there to balance that out. If you're going to go bold in the back, this I'd say this is the way to go. You'll be sexy as ever, but still look like you're got a swimsuit on.

Hope that was sexy enough for you all! But if you'd like to see more, or if you have any comments or suggestions, I'm all ears, so send them my way!

It's Sexy's Turn

I've recently been asked why I don't put more sexy and daring ideas here on the blog. Fair question. I guess writing about swimwear is already a bold move, so it had never really occurred to me that I'm not the most daring when it comes to the micro bikinis. But, that doesn't mean there aren't you dare devils out there, so thank you for bringing that to my attention! I will most definitely write about the risqué suits with the same enthusiasm as the other styles, and hopefully come up with some ideas that will match your styles and budgets. 

Syns Flower V Bikini

I think the best way to do is is gradually; let's start with some skin exposure, slowly but surely decreasing the amount of fabric. And by the end of next week, we'll be as close to nude as possible. Are you all ready? Here we go!

Today we'll be looking at some swimsuits from Street Gear USA. They've been following some of our pictures on Instagram, so I thought it would be cool to check them out, and bring some of their suits into the spotlight.

This flowered top with the more exposed bottom is super cute, and a great example of how showing a little bit more skin can really make a look more flattering. Notice that there are 2 very minor slits on the sides, but those compliment the V shape of the bottom really nicely. This suit has several different print tops to chose from, and is available at Street Gear USA for purchase for 49.99.

Syns Fan Blade Bikini

Next, we're going to look at this beautiful Fan Blade swimsuit. It's not that this bikini provides you with tons more skin exposure, but it's the detail of the top part that just makes it look so sexy. And because the top has so much detail, they've done a nice job adding a tiny little opening at each side of the bottoms; almost unnoticeable but definitely flattering and complimenting. This suit is also sold in black and white, so take a good look at your skin tone and find out which one will work best for you. You can also purchase the top or bottom separately, although I think they look absolutely fabulous together. If you decide to purchase top and bottom you're looking to spend 59.99. Not bad, right?

Syns Maroone Bikini

These two last (but clearly not least) bikinis are mentioned together because they are of a similar model. Notice how the strings in the middle give it a real sexy look, without actually revealing anything. A little tickle for the imagination!! Same goes for the bottoms, they're both very flattering, and yet don't take away from the actual comfort some of you (and by that I mean me!) are looking for. This Syns Maroone Bikini also comes in black, white, and 2 different prints, so again you can choose whichever one suits you best. It's available online for 49.99. 

Syns Revesible Bikini (suit below) has pretty much the same features, but goes a little bit further the skin exposure. The strapless top is always a bold move (as we've discussed in the past), and as you all can see the sides of the bottoms are nothing but strings. In reality they're not that different from the bottoms you tie on the sides, but the 3 straps definitely make it very attractive. The other cool thing about this suit is that it is, as the name says, reversible, on both the top and bottom parts. What that means is that this is basically 4 different bikinis in 1, pretty awesome, don't you agree? And don't be concerned if you're not a fan of the nautical theme or colors; this suit also comes in a beautiful blue and white pattern, with a white "flip side", and is available for 39.99. Think about it: it's 4 different combinations for 39.99!! 

Syns Reversible Bikini

That's going to be it for today, but stay tuned. Next week we're going full bold!

Happy Swimsuit Hunting!

The Last Hurrah

Hi you all,

Labor day is almost here, which is the unofficial end of summer, at least here in North America. It’s the last long weekend before school starts, so I’m sure a lot of you out there are planning your last hurrah of the summer. This time of year is always somewhat bittersweet; although some good holidays are coming up (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Carnaval if you’re Brazilian), we can’t help but feel a bit sad that Summer will soon be over. And yes, there will be other summers, but we know how long those winters sometimes seem. 

So, here are the coices we have: should we complain that summer’s over, or should we go out with the best last hurrah ever? I say we knock it out of the park and end this season with a bang! Let’s all get out there and rock our swimsuits outdoors one last time before we go back to indoors. I guarantee each and everyone of you all that, once the long weekend is over, you’ll be glad you did it!

Break Open By Scout Cuomo on Etsy

And remember: whatever the situation, you always have a choice. I hope that from now on you’ll all choose to make it the best ever. What will your last hurrah of the summer be?

Happy End of Summer!

Strike A Power Pose

I have a pretty simple point to make today, and I promise to try to get to it as objectively as possible. The idea is simple: improve your posture.

A few days ago I was listening to Happier with Gretchen Rubin, a podcast that talks about building good habits to improve our lives and therefore make us all happier. On episode 25 they brought in A.J Jacobs, a brilliant author also known as The Human Guinea Pig, to give his suggestions for their “try this at home” section of the show. His first suggestion: stand up straight for a week. Why? Because it increases your confidence and decisiveness.

While working on an article about the Founding Fathers, A.J. came across George Washington’s 110 rules of life, and discovered  he was well known for having the absolute best posture ever. Being the human guinea pig that he is, he decided to try it. It turns out that George Washington was correct in associating good posture and confidence; it’s actually scientifically proven. During the podcast they mentioned Amy Cuddy and the Ted Talk she gave as an example, then moved on to the his next suggestion.

Being a bit of a self-confidence material junkie, I looked up Amy and her Ted Talk. (By the way, it's amazing, you have to see it!) In a nutshell, she explains how a change in our bodies can result in a change of our minds. Holding what are called “power poses” for 2 minutes before facing a challenging situation can significantly increase your feeling of power and reduce your levels of stress. Her research showed that people who engaged in power poses before a stressful scenario not only felt more confident, but were also perceived as confident by others.

Examples of Power Poses

 

Which brings me to my point: if making a small change (like holding a pose for two minutes) can have a positive impact on how you feel about yourself, wouldn’t you want to try it? 

I am not only going to try it, I'm ready to begin the Strike a Power Pose Movement! I say let’s all hold that power pose every time we’re about to go out in public in our swimsuits, trying on that piece we feel might not look so flattering, or before we go out shopping for new swimwear. With science and George Washington on our side, there’s no stopping us! Who's with me? :)

Where There Are Pinups...

I absolutely love vintage stuff. Garage sales, thrift shops, consignment stores… that’s music to my ears! When I was little, our family’s Saturday morning thing was to drive around for a few hours and hit every garage sale in our path. I loved it! Going over all the random knick-knacks for sale was like taking a trip through time. A lot of times, the owners would tell you the story of every item you laid your eyes on. Can’t say I remember them all, but the most interesting stories are still talked about when my family gets together. And yes, I still carry a coin purse that I bought when I was 8 years old… so busted!! 

My lamb and coin purse. Bought in 1989 for 25 cents.

Anyway, I guess after all that my passion for vintage comes as no surprise to you all, correct?

So, if you’re like me and enjoy an old school look, then Scout Boutique on 8^th and Main Street is the place for you! This cute Mount Pleasant neighborhood shop features some incredible pinup style clothing, in a mix of new and vintage. Even if this is not exactly your style, I doubt you’ll go in there and not find something you like; it’s pretty close to impossible!!

And last but not least: where there are pinups, there are swimsuits! And gorgeous ones, may I say. Let’s take a look:

Vintage 2 piece swimsuit - $125.00

This white bikini is an exclusive vintage piece. It's a real gem, considering how hard it is to find vintage swimwear in good condition. The larger bottoms give it a really comfortable feel, while its 60's style just adds to this flattering look. End of summer is a perfect time to wear a suit like this; we've been outdoors for a while now, and our skins are nice and tanned. That will contrast perfectly with the white fabric. Unfortunately this is an only piece, so if you'd like a change at having it in your closet, you may want to hurry up! 

If you'd like to mix and match, the white top will go perfectly with these high waist bottoms. Actually, these bottoms will go well with several other colors, so use your imagination!! 

Mellons and Sweetcheeks high waist bottoms - $90.00

This next one has two similar versions. I loved these suits so much, I had to try it on! Unfortunately it was not my size, but had it been I would have bought this in a heartbeat! This is a locally handmade piece by Melons and Sweetcheeks. 

Remember ladies, all their swimwear is now 20% off. These are just a few of the lovely items they have there waiting for you! 

Happy Swimsuit Hunting!