Big Girl in a Skinny World: Swimwear Accessories

Hello, Ladies,

Finding swimsuits can be awful, but I hope my last post served as a helpful push in the right direction. While the swimsuit is the anchor of your beach look, you can’t forget to accessorize. Many plus-size girls are so frustrated with the swimsuit shopping that it completely slips their minds to use their accessories to keep their looks beach chic — which is ironic, because with the right accessories, even the simplest suit can look stylish.

The key is to find a cute but uncomplicated look that can take you from the beach to the post-swim margaritas. A sarong, frequently the only option found in the plus-size swim department, can scream “grandma” and look totally dated. Think outside the box here: Your cover-up doesn’t have to be something you found in the swimsuit section. In fact, you can use just about any sundress or tunic. Lands’ End has a great Sleeveless Jersey V-neck Cover-up Dress that comes in a variety of colors: a perfect starting point for any beach look.

When it comes to accessories, most earrings and bracelets work just fine for the beach, but necklaces can cause strange tan lines, so it’s best to leave them at home! Be sure to add a great pair of sandals, and remember that if you prefer to stick to black swimsuits, your accessories are a great way to infuse the summer colors into your look! For a pop of color consider Old Navy’s Women's Faux-Patent Gladiator Sandals (in summery orange or pink), or if you’re looking for some embellishment detail, try their Women's Embellished Leather T-Strap Sandals. Also, don’t be afraid to add a great hat to the mix — they are super-trendy and help to ensure that wrinkles won’t be making an early appearance. Forever 21’s Colorblock Straw Fedora is a great hat option. Oh, and don’t forget an amazing beach bag: Kate Spade’s Take A Dip Small Coal Tote is one of my current must-haves!

Summer is here, so get your beach outfit ready. What do you wear to the beach? Have any favorite cover-ups or swimsuits? Let me know!

-Ashley

YOUR BIG GIRL IN A SKINNY WORLD