The Styling You Annual Swimsuit Edition 2024

Публикация в группе: Мода

The Styling You Annual Swimsuit Edition for 2024 is here. If you’re new to this old blog, my annual campaign is at the core of everything I do on my social media platforms and in my business. I simply want more woman of all ages, shapes, sizes, colour and abilities to be visible in fashion campaigns so that more women can see themselves in the clothes that are marketed to them, which in turn helps them to feel good about wearing them.

I’m now 57 and it’s more than a decade since I started sharing the Styling You Annual Swimsuit Edition with the chief aim to simply encourage more women to not waste another summer sitting on the sand or the side of the pool because of how they felt about their body in a swimsuit.

Spoiler alert: we ALL have those feelings – maybe not every day but those intrusive thoughts can be just that. Intrusive. It’s not our fault. Most of us were brought up on an outdated culture of magazines telling us we had to have beach-ready bodies before we could dare to put on a swimsuit and head to the beach. What the magazines were telling us was only reinforced at home where diet culture thrived under the notion that skinny was the only body goal worth striving for.

I’m not saying in 2024 that we’ve kicked diet culture to the kerb but thanks to social media, we’ve had a front-row seat to much broader beauty standards thanks to a diverse range women choosing to just show up. You can’t hope to be what you can’t see and if you only see one type of woman in a swimsuit, how on earth are you meant to try and silence that inner critic and get yourself into one?

This year, we’ve switched things up again. I asked women who had been in a previous Styling You Annual Swimsuit Edition (and some newcomers) to submit a photo or photos of themselves in a swimsuit. Scroll on you’ll find 12 women from their 30s through to 70s in swimsuits of their own choosing, all sharing a message for you to encourage you to not sit on the sidelines this summer. Some have shared photos in their natural, joyful, swimming “habitat”, whether with kids or on holidays. This is what it’s all about!

When it came to selecting my own photos, I’ve used editor’s privilege HAH and am sharing five. My camera roll confirmed for me the biggest reason why I don’t care what my body looks like in a swimsuit: I’m simply happiest in water. Why on earth would I avoid swimming in the stunningly blue waters of the Mediterranean on a much longed-for holiday? And I have had zero regrets this year re-starting something I used to do A LOT when I was younger – lap swimming. Swimming is something that has helped me through another mentally tricky and exhausting 12 months. The joy of being in water overwhelmingly quietens my inner critic.

My pool and beach default swimsuit combination is usually a bikini with a rashie on hand to throw over for sun protection. Yes. A bikini. And this year, this 57YO bought her smallest bikini ever – at the encouragement of her husband. Honestly it was so liberating. I much prefer the comfort and ease of putting a bikini on and off in summer. It’s less fabric, less wrangling on a hot, sweaty/wet body and more freeing. Throw on a cover up and this is mostly how you’ll find me on down days throughout summer.

Make this summer the time you work on turning down the volume on your inner critic. Know that you’re not alone. I’ve never met a woman who is vocally and assuredly 100% happy with every bit of their body. So, rather than making this your goal, set yourself up for success by aiming for your own version of body neutrality. Understand we’re all built differently. Accept accept that fat, cellulite, crepey skin, hair, stretch marks, thighs that touch, non-perky breasts, flat bottoms and wrinkled skin are all normal characteristics of being a woman.

Life’s too short. Buy the damn swimsuit and get in the water.

Wearing Boteh (not current)

Wearing Une Piece (code IKNOWNIKKI)

Wearing The Acqua Brand

Wearing a Greek label bikini – Cocomo – bought in Greece

Wearing Speedo

Styling You Annual Swimsuit Edition 2024

Scroll on for inspiration from some incredible women I’m privileged to call friends. If you’re not already following them on social media, please do so. When you fill your social media feed with a diverse range of women, it’s about you controlling what you see and celebrating beauty beyond an archaic standard we were served up for way too long. This really does help your own body neutrality goals.

Wearing Mister Zimi

Wearing Seafolly

Bec Nolan, 39, @ilovethatskirt

What do you love about these swimsuits? Both of these swimsuits are high waisted. I love a high waisted bottom because after having three kids I like a bit of support around the tummy.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? It is completely normal to have insecurities about our bodies BUT no one else is looking at your body and judging you. I promise. I don’t want to live with any regrets about not getting in the pool or the ocean with my kids. So, even though I have insecurities and could pick apart my body, I try to remind myself that my kids DO NOT CARE what I look like in swimmers. My kids don’t care if I have lumps or bumps. My kids don’t care if I have rolls on my tummy. My kids don’t care if I have cellulite or stretch marks. They only care that I get in the water with them and have fun. And as for my friends and my husband. Firstly, my friends are all so supportive and encouraging and we all enjoy going in the water. We lift each other up and always comment at how good we all look in swimmers. And second, my husband is just happy I’m in a bikini! That’s enough for him haha!

Wearing Maddy Zanatta x Curvy Swimwear – Tutti Frutti Collection

Jo Bartley, 41 @icurvy

What do you love about this swimsuit? It’s got a corset detail on the back which is super cute, nice wide adjustable straps, good support for my F cup (without underwire) and the print is fun.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? No one is paying as much attention as you fear they are. Wear the damn swimsuit and live the great life you deserve.

Wearing Une Piece

Sonia Koroma, 36 @sonish_space

What do you love about this swimsuit? I absolutely love this swimsuit! The bustier balconette design provides me with the perfect lift and support, while the polka fabric brings a touch of playful elegance. It fits and hugs my body, accentuating my curves in all the right places. The vibrant red complements my complexion beautifully, igniting a sense of confidence and energy. Wearing it makes me feel radiant, empowered, and proud to embrace my body exactly as it is.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? Your body is already swimsuit-ready and worthy of joy and celebration. Embrace it with love and the knowing confidence that comes from within. Wear the damn swimsuit, soak up the sun, celebrate the moment, the sunshine, and the joy—because you deserve to make a splash in your beautiful swimsuit this summer. Own it and celebrate your beauty unapologetically.

Wearing Curvy Swimwear

April Hélène-Horton, 39 @thebodzilla

What do you love about this swimsuit? I think the style and the colours make it timeless and elegant. There’s something very Marilyn Monroe about it, don’t you think?

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? As I said when I rocked a Curvy Swimear bikini on a billboard, “beach please!” Your experience of summer shouldn’t be dictated by what anyone thinks but you.

Wearing Form & Fold

Brooke Falvey, 42 @brookefalvey

What do you love about this swimsuit? You can never go wrong with a black bikini and these pieces were designed to lift, shape and support larger cup sizes (hallelujah!). I love the high cut/high waist 90’s vibe – especially for a European summer.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? We all need to step away from the mirror every once in a while, and look for another reflection – like the one in the eyes of those who love us – and this summer, you’ll probably find it in the happy faces of your kids, grandkids, friends and family when you join them to splash around in the pool or the ocean.

Wearing Isserè

Dominique Jones, 39, @dominique.jolee

What do you love about this swimsuit? I love how this swimwear represents empowerment and self-love. The bikini is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a symbol of confidence and freedom. It encourages women to embrace their bodies in their most authentic form, regardless of size, shape, or societal expectations. It’s about comfort, not just physically, but emotionally, offering a sense of ease and safety in one’s own skin. The message behind it is empowering: every body is a bikini body, and that inclusivity is something I truly admire. It’s a celebration of individuality and self-acceptance, and it reminds us all to feel unbothered by the opinions of others.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? My message to anyone feeling unsure about getting into a swimsuit this summer is this: your body is beautiful just as it is, and you deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. A swimsuit, like a bikini, isn’t just about appearance—it’s about embracing your true self, flaws and all. Every body is a bikini body, and you have every right to feel empowered and unbothered by what others may think. The water is waiting for you to make a splash, not only physically, but with your confidence and self-love. Don’t let doubts hold you back—this summer, let go of the judgments and embrace the joy of just being YOU.

Wearing Une Piece

Kate Cooper, 32, @itskatejanmaree

What do you love about this swimsuit? This swimsuit keeps me feeling comfortable supported and confident! The square neck cut feels super classic and chic, I love the removable bows for two different looks, and this recently released textured colourway is a little bit different while still being bright and fun.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? You’ll only regret the memories you missed out on, and the things you didn’t do. Find a swimsuit that makes you feel fabulous, spend time with people who know you’re fabulous and enjoy time in (or around) the water – whether it’s with your kids or friends or other loved ones, they’re only going to remember the smile on your face, and at the end of the day that’s what you’ll remember too.

Wearing Capriosca (photo: Paula Brennan Photography)

Jan Wild, 71 @janstillretiring

What do you love about this swimsuit? I loved the fun vintage feel of this swimsuit and the flexibility the tankini offers.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? The older I get the more I realise life is short. Too short for silly rules like covering up flabby arms and imperfect legs. Just get in the water – you will love it when you do.

Wearing Une Piece

Jasmine Hunt, 39 @prettychuffed

What do you love about this swimsuit? It feels sexy and luxurious, yet I still feel like I can get in the pool or ocean with my kids.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? Life’s too short, seriously. This might sound a bit deep but sometimes if I’m scared of something I think – will I regret doing this? Usually the answer is no, it’s my insecurities telling me not to do something – I usually regret NOT doing the thing! Be sun safe, and get out there and enjoy.

Wearing ASOS Design

Caitlin Robertson, 35 @caitlin_robertson__

What do you love about this swimsuit? I love the sage green colour and white contrast binding on this bikini. It drew my eye immediately! I made the conscious decision to buy it knowing it showed a bit of skin. I really wanted to remind myself that I look amazing in bikinis and that I am allowed to wear whatever makes me happy and confident!

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? I would say that you deserve to enjoy your summer and lounge by the pool or swim at the beach with your loved ones. I have found that the more I embrace my body, whatever size or shape she may be at the time, the more comfortable I feel to live my life. If that means wearing a one piece and a sarong or the skimpiest bikini you can find, just know that we are our own harshest critic. I love giving women permission to wear whatever makes them feel amazing and maybe strutting your stuff by the pool will inspire another woman to do the same.

Wearing Une Piece

Stacey McGregor, 39 @stace_mcgregs

What do you love about this swimsuit? I love that this swimsuit makes me feel beautiful, I love the sun coverage and that it’s practical, yet just a little bit sexy.

What’s your message to anyone who’s feeling that they’re not up for getting in a swimsuit this summer and making a splash? Focus on the purpose – you are there to have fun, cool off and make memories with your loved ones. Be kind to yourself, get in the photo, make the memories, and wear what makes you feel confident.

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