Fear of beachwear isn’t just a problem – it’s a full-blown epidemic. Shedding layers and showing skin is something most women would admit sends them into a nervous spiral, but we say no more. That nagging little voice in your head can take a hike – now’s the time for the age of glowing skin, ridiculously adorable swimsuits and, of course, some seriously strong beach confidence. Here’s how.

Wear what makes you comfortable

Just like bodies aren’t one size fits all, neither are swimsuits. Don’t like the fit of a high waisted bikini? No sweat. There are halter tops, bandeaus, string bikinis, a one piece swimsuit, a two-piece and maybe even a three-piece somewhere on a remote beach in Europe. If you like the print of one swimsuit but not the fit, you might get lucky and find that it also comes in different styles.

This top from the Tu swimsuit line has two different bottom styles in the same print, plus a cover-up and one-piece option. Above all, it’s most important that you wear what makes you comfortable.

Accessorise, Accessorise, Accessorise

There’s nothing quite like sporting a swimsuit to get your nerves revving. A key way to get you feeling comfortable and confident in your beachwear is by dressing it up with things you know make you feel great. A bright red lip, dangly earrings or a killer set of gladiator sandals that will make you feel like a Greek goddess as you glide across the sand – yes, please.

Pinterest is a godsend for those of us that have no clue what to pair with a monochrome one piece or an oversized sun hat. Cue the dress-up montage.

Stand up (straight)

Okay, so this one might seem like a no-brainer, but we can’t stress enough how important posture is to maintaining confidence at the beach. Swimsuits don’t offer a whole lot of coverage or layers, so standing tall will help elongate your shape. Plus, slouching is a pretty good indication of someone that’s uncomfortable in their own skin. The only thing you’ll have to do is throw back your shoulders, tip up your chin and square your hips – and don’t you dare suck in.

Take care of your skin

Feeling confident in your own skin means you’ve got to start at the source – your skin, obviously. Beach days can often mean showing way more skin than we’re used to, so it’s important to do a little prep work and carry that routine on through the summer to make sure your skin is in good shape, both for your confidence and your health.

Exfoliating, staying hydrated and having sun cream on hand at all hours of the day are crucial to keeping a healthy foundation, and there’s nothing that goes with a brand new bathing suit quite like a sun-kissed glow.

Stop comparing.

This should be your mantra at the beach this summer – stop comparing your body to those around you. Easier said than done, we know, but practice makes perfect. You will never look exactly like to yours is not only pointless but unhelpful. The best way to keep up your beach confidence is to keep your eyes forward – preferably on the water – and know that nobody could ever wear that swimsuit quite like you do.

Feeling amazing in beachwear isn’t something that happens overnight, but with a little self-love, you’ll get there. Pronto. What’s your secret to feeling bold at the beach?

*This is a collaborative post*