5 Mantras for Not Psyching Yourself Out This Bikini Season
The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. And wedgies.
As the saying goes, "The beach will take whatever body I give it." Swell. But once you've actually poured yourself into the one of the at least two mega-flattering swimsuits you've brought (so one's always dry), it's possible you might still have some doubts. Like, "Oh, perhaps I should not have eaten half a can of Pringles right before this." Or, "Hmm, these bottoms are suspiciously high-cut." This is okay—as long as it doesn't affect your enjoyment of the water and the warmth and the rum-based poolside drinks. Here, five phrases to keep in mind.
Jim Carrey has said that one really only needs two weeks to get in shape. Two weeks! And that does not involve extreme calorie restriction or so much cardio your shins shatter. With moderate exercise and disciplined eating, it takes practically no time at all to feel good about yourself, which is the real challenge, on and off the sand. And even if you slip up and polish off another half-can of Pringles, it's chill—are you really not going to go on holiday because of that?
RELATED STORY
How to Lose Weight (or at Least Look It) Without Moving a Muscle
I will not change my body to accommodate a swimsuit, because it should be the other way around.
It doesn't matter what number appears on the tag. It doesn't matter if the numbers on the top and bottom are different (that's why most good places sell them separately, anyway). It doesn't matter if it's larger or smaller than last year's suit. Stay firmly in the present and buy a bikini for the body you have now, not the one you expect/hope will arrive overnight. You'll be so much happier that way, and there are so many good options out there for everyone.
RELATED STORY
10 Swimsuits So Universally Flattering You Can Hit "Buy" Immediately
An unnervingly big part of beach/pool culture is seeing and being seen. That is a fact. But that's also not license to play "spot the difference" with a stranger. Focus instead on the things your perfectly fine, not-lumpy body is there to do: paddle around lazily, lounge, indulge your secret piña colada obsession, and relax.
Easier said than done, of course, but also better done...than not done, because low self-esteem causes all sorts of lingering unhappiness. So even if you don't much feel like the hottest girl in the world, throw your shoulders back and stand tall like you're Bella Hadid on her very best day. (Also, a pool exit on tiptoes is an old swimsuit-model trick that does wonders. Believe.)
On a more practical/hopefully not-literal note, "surviving bikini season" also includes proper sun protection. Non-negotiable.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
RELATED STORY
6 Easy Ways to Force SPF into Your Daily Routine—Because Your Future Face Depends on It
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Chelsea Peng is a writer and editor who was formerly the assistant editor at Marie Claire. She's also worked for The Strategist and Refinery29, and is a graduate of Northwestern University. On her tombstone, she would like a GIF of herself that's better than the one that already exists on the Internet and a free fro-yo machine. Besides frozen dairy products, she's into pirates, carbs, Balzac, and snacking so hard she has to go lie down.
-
The Australian Public Is Going Wild for King Charles and Queen Camilla Despite Government Snubs
Droves of Australians have waited for hours to get a glimpse of the King and Queen.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Princess Eugenie Is Reportedly in a "Precarious Position" Between Prince Harry and King Charles
"Eugenie is in a difficult spot."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
We Can't Stop Listening to These 32 Excellent Celebrity Podcasts
Grab some headphones and tune in.
By Katherine J. Igoe Published
-
Fashion Girls Are Using Sheer Knee-High Socks to Level Up Their Looks
The perfect balance between not too bare and not too boring.
By Emma Childs Published
-
'80s-Era Leather Bomber Jackets Are Making a Swift Comeback
The trend took off during Fashion Month but has legs to last through winter and spring.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Torishéju Dumi Is the New Name To Know From Paris Fashion Week
She debuted last year with Naomi Campbell and designed Zendaya's 'Dune' red-carpet look—now, the industry darling is gearing up for her second show.
By Emma Childs Published
-
6 Charli XCX Concert Outfit Ideas, According to Bona Fide Brats
There's no rulebook, but Marie Claire editors have a few ideas.
By Emma Childs Published
-
New Yorkers Are Already Wearing These Classic On-Sale Pieces From COS, Madewell, and J.Crew for Fall
Not to mention, they all cost less than $250.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Fashion Writer Erika Veurink Shares Her No. 1 Tip for Finding Amazing Vintage Pieces on eBay
The fashion journalist and brand strategist spoke to editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike for the 'Marie Claire' podcast "Nice Talk."
By Sadie Bell Published
-
Fall Essentials Marie Claire Editors Bought for September
From cozy layers to hydrating moisturizers, here are the products that will carry us through fall.
By The Editors at Marie Claire Published
-
7 Versatile Pieces You Can Wear For the Next 4 Months
Master transitional dressing like a style pro.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published