MAKE IT CUTE

Fashion

20 real girl tips for major bikini confidence

Worried about how you’ll look in your bikini this summer? Don’t fret: We’ve got real GL girl tips to boost your confidence faster than you can say “cannonball!”

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Before you go:
1.Stay active! This could mean working out, riding your bike, dancing, swimming...anything to get you off your feet and leading a healthy lifestyle this summer! You’ll look and feel fab!
2. Choose the right suit for your body type. Look for ones that are figure flattering with ruching, flirty side ties, or bold stripes. Check out this post to find the suit style that fits you best.

We love: Delia’s Ruffle Keyhole One-Piece in Multi Stripe, $35, delias.com
3. Pick a bikini that suits your style. Why blend into a sea of black bikinis? We say pick a bright pattern you love, and strut your stuff.
We love: Delia’s Molded Cup Halter and Tie Hipster in Multi Ikat, both $25, delias.com
4. Take care of your skin: Exfoliate, shave and moisturize before you go. Smooth, silky gams appear leaner when you’re rockin’ that bikini!

We love: Gillette Venus Breeze 2in1 Razor, $10, walmart.com

EOS Evolution of Smooth Pomegranate Raspberry Shave Cream, $3, walmart.com
5. Eat healthy and drink a ton of agua. In exchange for those unhealthy snacks, try fresh fruit slices or nuts. Plus, downing a lot of water makes hair, skin, and nails look their best.
6. Choose a glam cover up. Start off the day feeling fab and fierce and carry that attitude with you for the whole day.

We love: ASOS Palm Print Racerback Beach Cover Up, $34, asos.com
7. Try a subtle fake tan. Psst: A faux glow helps muscles look more toned and lean, without the risk of exposing yourself to harmful rays.

We love: L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Pro Perfect Salon Airbrush Self-Tanning Mist, $11, ulta.com
8. Love yourself! Look in the mirror and find at least three things about your bod that you like. Focus on those three things when you hit the sand.
9. Practice good posture. You don’t wanna be hunched over. Standing taller actually makes you look thinner, so push those shoulders back, lengthen your neck and work it!
10. Get some waterproof makeup! Grab some eyeshadow in a bright, summery color that will stay on throughout the day. It’ll add some pop to your look and make you feel super pretty.

We love: CoverGirl Intense ShadowBlast Eye Shadow in Blue Bomb, $8, amazon.com
At the beach or pool:
1. Wear your fave piece of jewelry! Every girl needs her bling, so rock your fave necklace or bracelet stack.

We love: Forever 21 Swirling Bead Necklace, $6, forever21.com
2. Add some sweet sunnies to your beach style. You’ll look instantly cooler behind some serious shades.

We love: Forever21 Sunglasses, $6, forever21.com
3. Smile! This is soo simple and makes you instantly more approachable. Plus, it tricks your mind into feeling happier. (Really!) A pretty gloss with SPF sweetens the deal.
We Love: Clinique Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 in Clearly Pink, $15, sephora.com
4. Quit negative thoughts—and don’t compare yourself to others. Positive thinking leads to good things!
5. Slather on the SPF. Protect your skin from sun damage and breakouts with an oil free sunscreen. Go for the trifecta and pick one that's waterproof.

We Love: Coppertone Oil Free Lotion SPF 30 Sunscreen 8oz, $10, soap.com
6. Take care of your hair: Summer is the perf time to show off those beachy waves.

We love: Tigi Catwalk Session Series Salt Spray, $13, amazon.com
7. Wear beachy wedges with your cover up! The added height makes you appear taller, thinner and firmer. Work it, girl!

We love: Rocket Dog Clara Espadrille Wedges, $40, piperlime.com
8. Want more coverage? Add some stylin’ shorts. There are tons of shorts made to swim in. Don’t let your fears hold you back from having a great time.

We love: Billabong Bella Boardshorts, $40, pacsun.com
9. Compliment others on their cute suits. You’ll make both yourself and someone else feel good!
10. Wear a big floppy hat or a cool fedora. Drawing attention to all different places on your body will make you feel less nervous about showing off a specific area. Plus, you’ll look so glam!

We love: Kirra All The Glory Fedora, $15, pacsun.com