The so-called ‘Bikini Body’ will be a nagging concern for many of us 40-something women right now as the departure date for our Summer holiday looms ever closer. Have we worked hard enough, or even at all, to get to that stage where we feel confident to expose our bodies in next to nothing? Will we ever have a ‘Beach Body” or at least one that we are satisfied with?

We’ve all got body confidence issues of some kind. For me, it’s my legs – whilst they might be slim, they are veiny, bumpy, cellulite-y and my knees are saggy. However, spending a fortune on laser treatment or anti-cellulite creams and hours dry brushing, massaging and in the gym just isn’t realistically going to happen. So I am just going to have to live with them and make the most of what I do have.

If, like me, you’ve been addicted to Love Island, you’ll no doubt have been gushing enviously over the 20-something girls in the villa, parading their gorgeous peachy bums and perfectly toned abs and thighs in thongs and weirdly cut-out costumes. Well, that ain’t us ‘babes‘.

Very few women over the age of 40 have perfect bodies. It’s time to start accepting what we have. Yes, we can make improvements with diet and exercise but don’t get hung up on obtaining the unobtainable! Body acceptance is hands-down one of the most attractive features a women can posses. So a bit of confidence, fake tan and some flattering beachwear is all we need to look stylish beach or pool-side!

Bikini or Swimsuit?

It’s simply a matter of personal preference whether you choose a one or two-piece.

However, if you are concerned about a wobbly tummy then don’t stress – just opt for a swimsuit! Who needs a tanned tummy anyway? Swimsuits are super stylish and very flattering. You can pick vertical stripes to elongate your body, wrap styles to flatter a larger bust, or go on-trend with one-shoulder or bardot style necklines.

Many of Marks & Spencer’s one-piece suits come with Secret Slimming™ technology and they are an excellent price point too. The Rosie for Autograph range is just gorgeous!

In fact, most brands sell body-shaping styles these days that will smooth out any lumps and bumps. Like these ones below from H&M & Next.

A bikini is a much trickier purchase. I only ever consider brands that sell a two-piece as separates and bra-sized bikini tops. My bosom needs support, so underwire and a proper cup-size is a necessity. I also think about strap marks when I buy a bikini, so my preference is a bandeau style with detachable straps. And I like a generous bikini bottom to hold my but in place!

I was recently gifted a bikini by Fantasie. I chose from the Paradise Bay collection which ticks all the boxes and I can’t recommend enough! (This isn’t a sponsored post btw – I genuinely want to include the brand in this post).

For bigger busted ladies, Freya offers bikini tops up to cup size J, like this gorgeous white frilled 2-piece.

And Bravissimo goes up to a K cup, like this simple and stunning black bikini.

Lastly, I love this sporty-style two-piece from Boden which is available in cup sizes A to DD. I am quite fond of side-tie bikini bottoms – especially ones you can adjust so that they don’t cut into your flab!!

Covering up

We are spoilt for choice these days with what to wear to cover up when moving from poolside to bar or from the sun lounger for a little stroll along the shoreline. Sarongs used to be the only option (and I still like a sarong!) but now we can choose between kaftans (long or short), beach dresses that coordinate with swimwear, playsuits or kimonos.

Shirt dresses like this one below from La Redoute (currently with an extra 40% off) are great if you are pushed for suitcase space as it will work as a beach cover up and a dress for day-tripping and exploring the local markets. 

Any oversized linen or thin cotton shirt works really well and looks chic as a beach cover up. I bought two last year from George at Asda (one white, one black). They were my holiday winner and are still serving me well! They are available this year in black (not white) and other bright colours (Coral below) and cost a mere £8, click here to have a look. 

I’m a big fan of Jes Lifestyle brand for stunning bohemian dresses and jumpsuits which make fantastic beach cover ups and are glam enough to be worn in the evenings too.

When purchasing any swimwear, I absolutely recommend ordering online and trying in the comfort of your own bedroom – that last thing we all need are the glaring lights of a changing room! It must be one of the most excruciating purchases we make.. but ladies, there will be a swimsuit or two-piece out there that flatters your body shape, I promise you! Just try LOTS on (perhaps with a glass of wine at hand!)

Wishing you all amazing summer holidays!

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