Body positivity and fitness: the two may not seem to go in hand, but they very well can. Unfortunately, exercise has become synonymous with achieving appearance-driven goals — pushing your body past its limits to look a certain way. But it definitely doesn’t have to be that way.

Fitness should ultimately be all about moving your body in a way that makes you feel good — whether that means stronger, more energized, or more flexible. Fitness should be about celebrating what your body is capable of, not seeking to achieve an unattainable figure.

So, how do you get fit while staying body positive? Simply follow these four foolproof steps.

Forget about the numbers

If you’re trying to focus on staying body positive, you’ll need to ditch any obsession over measurements, the scale, etc. Hear us out: Placing an emphasis on these numbers makes fitness all about looking a certain way. And isn’t body positivity all about embracing your unique figure? So the key is to find other ways to measure and track your progress. For example, you might find that you’re able to pick up increasingly heavier weights with every month you engage in strength training. Or maybe you’re able to go an extra quarter mile after regularly running for a few weeks. You might want to set goals for these kinds of aspects so that you can work on achieving them by a certain time frame.

Do it for the right reasons

Being motivated to work out is great. But are you motivated for the right reasons? Body positivity means you shouldn’t be exercising to reach a certain size, fit into a certain pair of jeans, or have a certain percent body fat. Some stellar reasons for working out include: being able to be more active with your young kids, feeling stronger or more energized in general, relieving stress, and improving your cardiovascular health. In other words, there is a slew of perks that come with exercising besides burning calories.

Related: A Beginner’s Guide To Body Positivity

Dress for confidence

You know how phenomenal you feel when you slip on a flawlessly fitting pair of jeans or a dress that hugs your curves in all the right places? You can’t wait to show off your ensemble, because you feel downright fabulous. Well, wearing fitness apparel that makes you feel that confident can really help in the body positivity department, too. The idea is to wear pieces that are comfortable and fit well, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting them during your workout or feeling remotely self-conscious. Because the last thing you need to be worried about while you’re lifting weights or moving through a yoga flow is how your clothes look. Besides, if you have some cute new workout clothes, you’ll be excited to flaunt them — which means you’re more likely to stick to your fitness routine. A well-fitting sports bra and quality pair of sneakers that are tailored to your form of exercise can go a long way in making you feel empowered during exercise.

Honor your limits

Repeat after us: Do what you can, at your own pace. There are lots of reasons why you may be tempted to push yourself past our comfort zone — and sometimes, it can be great to do so. But there’s a difference between challenging yourself and disrespecting your limits. If you start to feel unwell and need to skip out of a class 10 minutes early, don’t stress — instead, congratulate yourself for getting there and participating in as much as you could. If you simply don’t have the ability to perform certain moves due to flexibility or mobility limitations, that’s OK, too. You can ask the instructor for modifications, and if it’s realistic, set the goal to eventually be able to try those moves once you’ve gradually worked up to them. Respecting your limits means thanking your body for all that it can do, and never punishing it for anything that it can’t.

The bottom line is this: It is indeed very possible to up your fitness game while continually staying body positive. All you have to do is forget about the numbers, shift your focus to the right motivators, set realistic goals, dress to make yourself feel good, and respect your own limitations.

Related: Empower Your Girlfriends: How To Boost Their Confidence

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Active Sports Bra P5541 in Black/White

Finding the perfect swimsuit is no easy task. Of course, you want it to fit flawlessly and flatter your unique figure, highlighting your assets while making you feel confident at the beach or the pool. And did you know that certain habits can actually preserve the longevity of your swimsuits?

Read on to find out what strategies you can use to lengthen your bathing suit’s lifespan so you can wear it for seasons to come.

Try a pre-swim vinegar soak

Did you know that vinegar has both antibacterial and deodorizing properties? Not only that, but it can help to set the pigment in the dye on your bathing suit, making it less likely to fade or bleed in the future. That’s why we advise doing a vinegar soak before you wear it for the first time (and any time you think it needs a little extra help getting clean — such as after a really long beach day when you’ve been sweating in the heat). Simply add a couple tablespoons to a basin or sink full of water and allow you swimsuit to soak for 20 to 30 minutes.

Wash as quickly as possible after swimming

Whether you’re taking a dip in the ocean or a pool, you should always try to wash your bathing suit as soon as possible afterward. The longer than your sweat, sunblock, and any chlorine or salt in the water sit on the fabric of your bathing suit, the more damage they’ll do to the material. If you don’t have a change of clothes or aren’t ready to head home yet, you can even take a quick shower with your bathing suit still on to help preserve the fabric.

Related: 7 Things To Look For In The Perfect Swimsuit

…And dry ASAP, too

Whatever you do, don’t let your damp swimsuit sit in a gym/beach bag, hamper, etc., because this makes it more prone to mildew and other bacteria. Even if you can’t hand wash the bathing suit right away, rinse it a few times with cold water and lay it on a flat surface.

Hand wash only

Sure, it can be tempting to toss your bathing suits in the washing machine, but we don’t recommend it. Treat your swimsuits like bras — they’re just as delicate, and a machine can put them through too much agitation, leaving them misshapen and ill-fitting and potentially destroying decorative details.

Instead, soak your bathing suit in a sink or basin full of water with a capful of detergent specifically formulated for delicates (even baby shampoo will work in a pinch). After letting them soak for 30 minutes, rinse them out until the water runs clear. If you notice any discoloring or stains (this typically happens where you sweat or apply sunscreen, so near the underband, underarms, or straps), you can try rubbing a laundry soap bar on those areas for a little spot treatment. Remember: hot water can wreak havoc on swimwear, so always be sure to wash it in cool or lukewarm water. (This is also why we recommend setting aside one bathing suit for the hot tub — ideally one you didn’t invest a lot in).

Don’t forget to take out any removable padding in the cups and wash that separately. It can be re-inserted once the bathing suit is dry.

Dry carefully

Just as bathing suits aren’t meant to be washed in a machine, they aren’t meant to be dried in one, either. A dryer subjects your swimsuit to far too much heat, which can break down the elastic, bend the underwires out of shape, and even cause the fabric to shrink. Also, don’t leave your swimwear to dry in the sun, as the UV rays can cause the material to fade. Your instinct may be to wring out excess water, but avoid this at all costs — it can stretch out the bathing suit in certain areas, meaning it won’t fit you as well. And while we’re on the subject, don’t hang your bathing suits by the straps or ties as this can also stretch them out. Lay your bathing suit flat on a towel to absorb extra moisture. You can even press it gently between two towels if you want it to dry faster. And you can also hang a bathing suit on a drying rack (but again, never by straps or ties).

A quality swimsuit is an investment. So once you find one that aligns with your personal style and fits your body well, you obviously want to make sure it lasts. Follow the advice in this guide to keep your favorite bathing suits in tip-top condition.

Related: How To Buy A Supportive Swimsuit

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

The words “fitness” and “body positivity” may not seem to go hand in hand. And it’s no surprise: with so many extreme workouts these days that are geared toward pushing your body past its limits, it’s hard to find a balance between loving yourself and staying in shape. But these concepts don’t need to be mutually exclusive.

Grab your sports bra and sneakers and get ready for your most confident sweat session ever. Here are some of our favorite inclusive workouts to try.

Curvy Yoga

If you’ve been eager to take advantage of all the physical and mental benefits of Yoga, but are a little nervous to try it, Curvy Yoga is a great place to start. As the name suggests, these classes welcome all body types, in addition to all skill levels and capabilities. So there’s no need to fret if you’re not super flexible! Founder Anna Guest-Jelley created Curvy Yoga in hopes of encouraging more women who are intimidated by the practice to finally take the plunge and learn some basic poses while also embracing their bodies at the same time. Instructors are constantly circling the room to correct your form or offer alternative options when necessary, so you’re able to move at your own pace and in keeping with your own comfort level. Can’t find a Curvy Yoga class near you? Luckily, Guest-Jelley provides free practice videos on the Curvy Yoga website.

Pony Sweat

Are you prone to breaking out into spontaneous solo dance parties at home? Then Pony Sweat is for you. This fitness class has been described by the founder as “fiercely non-competitive” — in other words, you don’t have to worry if you miss a step (and the choreography is designed to be doable for all levels). In fact, instructors encourage you to make the moves your own, and since you’re having so much fun, you’re less likely to feel stressed about keeping up with other attendees. If you’re dying to take a Pony Sweat class but don’t live near the studio, check out the free dance video that creator Emilia Richeson offers online.

Related: A Beginner’s Guide To Body Positivity

Underwater Spinning

There’s no doubt about it: spinning is one of the trendiest fitness movements that has emerged in recent years. But for some, cycling can mean a major strain on the knees — and no one should have to forfeit their favorite exercise for fear of risk of injury. That’s where this class comes in: not only does spinning underwater minimize the chance of hurting your knees, but it also comes with added resistance, which means your muscles work harder. Scope out Aqua Studio NY, which offers a range of different underwater spinning classes depending on your goals, and with just 14 participants, they’re slightly less intimidating and more intimate. In fact, some of these classes are women-only. (many are women-only as well).

Body Balance

Are you looking for a class that’s going to boost your strength, balance, and flexibility while also helping you to feel more mentally centered? Body Balance, which is a yoga-based movement, will do just that. The classes, which last for 45 minutes, begin with standing Tai Chi and traditional yoga sun salutations. After that, you’ll engage in Pilates moves on the mat to focus on working your legs and core. Instructors will explain in detail how positions are supposed to feel, so you can quickly make adjustments until you’re engaging the right muscles. The best part? At the end, you’ll participate in a 10-minute meditation, so you’re bound to leave the class feeling relaxed and serene.

Throwback Fitness

Remember how active you were as a kid — when exercise meant playing games instead of mindlessly running on a treadmill? Throwback Fitness seeks to re-harness that joy you got from breaking a sweat by incorporating such childhood favorites as dodgeball, freeze tag, and capture the flag. There are a number of different options to choose from, including an Endurance/Speed class and a Strength/Power class. And since you’ll be playing games on teams, there’s a fun social element to the workouts as well.

Fortunately, more and more body positive fitness movements are cropping up — the kind that makes you focus on how your body feels, not how it looks. If you’re looking for a class that will help you to embrace your shape and size, try one of the movements in this guide.

Related: How To Be Confident In Lingerie

Rules were meant to be broken — at least that’s how we feel in regards to style. Yet still, in regards to swimwear, there are so many pervasive “rules” that we’ve been told time and again, all of which can make shopping for one a bit frustrating.

Are white swimsuits see-through? Are black bathing suits the most flattering? Do you have to wear a certain cut if you’re small busted? Finding the right bathing suit for your body can be challenging enough without fretting about style guidelines you’re supposed to adhere to.

Fortunately, we’re here to separate the myths from the facts. Below, we’ve busted some popular swimsuit myths so you can shop smarter and sport your favorite bikini (or one-piece!) worry-free.

Myth #1: Your swimsuit size is the same as your clothing size

Fact: The reality is that your swimsuit size may differ from what you wear in the rest of your clothes. This is especially important to keep in mind if you’re shopping online instead of trying it on in the store.

Note that many brands tend to run small because they’re meant to fit super snugly. After all, you don’t want to be worrying about your bathing suit falling down while you’re swimming or playing some beach volleyball. But that means you may have to size up in order to get a comfortable fit.

Of course, you want to make sure the band on a bikini top is as snug as possible because that provides the majority of the support. Keep in mind, though, that swimwear material stretches a tiny bit every time it gets wet, so you want it to be as tight as possible when you first buy it so you can get maximum wear out of it.

Myth #2: Large-busted women should stick with one-pieces

Fact: Whether you’re a D cup or an F cup, you can still definitely rock a two-piece. The key to finding a bikini that works for you is to look for certain features that can ensure optimal support. For example, you’ll want to seek out tops that have an adjustable band and straps, as well as a wider under band.

Underwire can also be helpful for lift, and molded cups offer extra help in the shaping department. You can even find bikini tops with three-part cups which are not only super flattering on the bustline but also ideal for getting maximum support.

Related: How To Buy A Supportive Swimsuit

Myth #3: Small busted women need padding

Fact: If you’re lacking in the breast department, you’ve probably heard or read somewhere that you should buy bathing suits with padding to enhance your bust line.

Here’s the thing: There’s no reason why you should have to hide a small bust — we’re all about being body positive, which means embracing what you’ve got. Besides, being less busty comes with a slew of advantages when it comes to swimsuit shopping!

For example, you can easily sport styles with less coverage, such as a string bikini and strapless bustier tops. If you’re still looking to create the illusion of a larger bust, you don’t have to stick to tops with padding, either — ruffles can also visually create some volume up top.

Myth #4: Black is the only color that will make you look slimmer

Fact: Black is one of the most flattering colors, there’s no doubt about that. Why? Because dark colors recede to the eye, meaning that it can actually make your body appear to take up less space. However, if you’re not a fan of this dramatic color, rest assured that there are plenty of other hues that can do the same thing.

Navy blue, dark chocolate brown, and even a deep plum, charcoal gray, or green can also have a slimming effect. If you tend to like prints more than solid colors on bathing suits, opt for vertical or diagonal stripes, which can make your torso look more slender.

Don’t fall into the trap of believing any of these common swimsuit myths. Now that you know the truth, we have one last piece of advice: Shopping for swimwear should be fun, not stressful. At the end of the day, the best bathing suit for you is the one that makes you feel totally comfortable and confident.

Related: 7 Things To Look For In The Perfect Swimsuit

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

Self-love isn’t just a trendy expression, it’s a vital concept to grasp if you want to live a happy life with healthy relationships. At the end of the day, your approval and appreciation of yourself are crucial — but many of us women tend to focus on meeting other people’s needs, and rarely prioritizing our own. So, how can you love yourself more? Well, we’ve rounded up a list of some foolproof exercises to get you started. Like most things, getting better at loving yourself takes some practice. Incorporate these exercises into your routine and you’ll be feeling more self-assured in no time.

Meditate

One of the greatest things you can do for yourself is to meditate. In this fast-paced world, we are almost always thinking about the next thing we have to accomplish instead of living in the present. So spending even just five minutes a day to quiet your mind is a wonderful gift to give yourself – it can help to center you, quiet your mind and even learn more about yourself.

Sit comfortably somewhere you know you’ll have no distractions, and bring a notebook and pen with you. Set a timer if you’d like, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Allow yourself to hone in on your senses — the smells in the room, the way your feet feel on the carpet, etc. But take note when your mind wanders to any worries or thoughts that don’t relate to your present existence. When the time is up, write down one thing you learned about yourself, one thing you’re proud of yourself for, and one thing you’re feeling grateful for. You can do this exercise when you first wake up or right before bed.

Related: 5 Ways The Right Lingerie Can Boost Your Confidence

Treat yourself

We all have certain things that make life more enjoyable for us, whether it’s a luxuriously long bath, a fresh manicure, an outdoor run, or a fine glass of wine. Don’t forget to partake in these things on a regular basis. Make a list of the top five to 10 things that bring you the most joy. Then find a way to actually schedule time for those things by penciling them into your planner or typing them into your calendar. By formally scheduling a time to treat yourself, you’re less likely to lose sight of those rewards and forget to give them to yourself. You may even want to make a regular date with a friend to keep you accountable for treating yourself. For example, you and a girlfriend could make joint appointments for a blowout at your local salon, or a standing reservation for brunch once a month at your favorite spot.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is a mental state that revolves around being super aware and in the moment while also acknowledging your thoughts and feelings. Many of us may find ourselves living life on “autopilot,” never really taking note of what we’re thinking or how we’re feeling. As such, any negativity can build up, causing distress, depression, anxiety, and even physical health problems.

Whenever you notice a thought that’s negative — whether it’s an overly harsh self-criticism, jumping to an unreasonable negative conclusion, or just being generally pessimistic about certain circumstances — write it down. Then, ask yourself: what triggered this thought? How does that thought impact my feelings and limit me? And what is a more positive alternative to that thought? The more you do this exercise, the more aware you’ll become of toxic thinking, and the quicker you’ll be able to re-route your thought patterns to be more positive. Moreover, this is a solid exercise in building up your overall mindfulness.

Self-love cannot be achieved without a little effort. But it’s so imperative to continually work on learning to accept and appreciate ourselves because it can affect everything from our performance at work to our friendships and our marriages. And no one else can bolster our self-love, no matter how many compliments they give us — the journey has to come from within. Try incorporating these exercises into your life and you’re sure to feel a difference. Here’s to a more empowered, self-assured, mindful and grateful you.

Related: Imperfection Is Beauty: 6 Beautiful Things That Make You Unique

Featured image lingerie:

Casey Plunge Molded Bra 2801 | Casey Boyshort 2805 in Summer Print

Every summer, we look forward to hitting the beach or lounging by the pool in a brand new swimsuit. Of course, this means a shopping trip is in order — not to mention some knowledge of current trends. Just like in the streetwear fashion world, swimwear trends come and go. Last year, there was a whole lot of cutouts, crochet, and neon. But this year, the tides have changed, with a bevy of new standout styles. So, which trends should you keep an eye out for? We rounded up five of our favorites to keep in mind while swimsuit shopping.

Belts

Guess what? Belts aren’t just for jeans anymore. More and more designers are incorporating them into their swimsuits — on both one-pieces and bikinis. And luckily, there is a slew of different belt types to choose from. A chunky buckle belt on a two-piece has a bold, fashion-forward look, while a delicate drawstring belt with a tassel on a plunge-neck one-piece is understated and elegant yet still totally on-trend. You’ll also notice a lot of wrap ties at the waist, which are a fun accent because you can tie them in a variety of ways. The beauty of a belt is that it can draw attention to the smallest part of your torso (your waist), and even make it look a little narrower, too. In other words, this is a stellar trend for hourglass figures to take advantage of.

High-waisted bottoms

Curvy women, rejoice: super low-rise string bottoms are out, and high-waisted styles with thicker waistbands are in. With a retro kind of appeal, these bottoms are not only universally flattering, but they also offer a little extra coverage. We love a high-waisted bottom with an off-the-shoulder cap sleeve bikini top (also a big trend this season) or a vintage pinup-inspired balconette bra style top with underwire. Not only do high-waisted bottoms accentuate curves, but they can create the illusion of them around the hips and derriere on ladies with a more straight up and down athletic figure.

Related: How To Find The Most Flattering Swimsuit For Your Shape

Ruffles

It’s all in the details when it comes to swimwear, and what could possibly be sweeter than some ruffles? This accent has been popping up more and more over the last year on a range of pieces, and bathing suits are no exception. If you just want to take this trend for a test run, opt for a swimsuit that has just one purposeful ruffle along the waistband or neckline of the swimsuit. Or, you could go big with a one-piece that has numerous rows of dramatic asymmetrical ruffles. Whichever route you go, rest assured that frills will give you an instantly feminine and playful look, which is perfect for any summer occasion.

One-shoulder

It’s no secret that one-shoulder styles have been big this summer on everything from blouses and dresses to rompers and bodysuits. The one-shoulder look is also having a major swimsuit moment as well. This trend is one of our favorites because it’s timeless and effortlessly chic. Even the simplest solid color one-piece looks instantly eye-catching with just one shoulder strap. Meanwhile, a one-shoulder bikini has a subtly sultry look. The best part? You get to show a little shoulder without totally sacrificing both straps for support. Trust us, it’s worth the tan lines.

Sporty color blocking

Since athleisure has been a big trend this year, it makes sense that athletic-inspired styles become a major swimwear trend. Now add in color-blocking and you have a look that’s sporty yet also totally stylish. This season, we’re seeing a lot of green and blue combinations, as well as red with pink or orange. One of the major benefits of color-blocking is that you can use it to your advantage to highlight your assets. Keep in mind that dark colors recede to the background, while lighter colors come forward. So, if you’ve got wide hips and want to bring attention to your upper half, wear a bikini with brighter or lighter colors on top and darker hues on the bottom. Draw attention to your small waist with a one-piece that has a band in an eye-catching shade around the middle Or, if you have wide shoulders but feel great about your derriere/legs, try a swimsuit that’s darker on the top and brighter or lighter on the bottom.

Ready to make a splash this summer? Any of the aforementioned swimsuit trends should do the trick for getting you noticed, whether you’re lounging on a towel seaside or taking a dip on a rooftop pool.

Related: How To Buy A Supportive Swimsuit

There’s no denying that bralettes have been having a major moment. We’ve been seeing more and more of them lately, and not just in stores and online — but also peeking out from underneath women’s outfits. Maybe you spotted one on a stylish girl strolling down the street, your best friend, a celeb, or a fashion blogger you follow on Instagram. Either way, you liked the look, and now you’re wondering how to pull it off yourself.

There are so many ways to show off a bralette. If you need a little guidance, read on for some tried-and-true style tips on how to embrace this trend.

Under lace

You know that lace top? The one that you can’t figure out what you should wear underneath? Lace tops create a unique challenge because they’re partly see-through. That’s where a pretty bralette can come in handy: it’s meant to be seen, so it acts as the perfect layering piece.

If you’re going for a subtler look, pair a simple bralette that matches the color of your top. But if you’re feeling more daring, you can choose a bralette in a brighter or darker hue — something that will stand out against the color of your top. For example, a crimson lace bralette is eye-catching under a black lace top, while a bralette in a deep jewel tone like purple or teal looks striking under an ivory lace top.

Under something sheer

Sheer blouses and dresses can also be tricky when it comes to undergarments. Show off a fashion-forward bralette underneath these pieces and you won’t have to worry about them making a visible appearance. We love patterned bralettes under sheer solid tops or strappy cage bralettes under sheer dresses.

Under low-arm tanks

Tank tops with low armholes are a staple for many of us during the summertime. And by wearing a bralette, you don’t have to worry about your undergarment showing. A hint of lace popping out of the sides of the tank adds some visual intrigue. You could also pair a racerback bralette with a racerback tank or dress for just a tinge of ornate detailing peering out in the back.

Under a button-down

Most of us have a button-down or three in our wardrobes, and with good reason. These timeless staples are universally flattering and also super versatile. However, they can sometimes come across a little stiff or business-like outside the office.

So if you’re trying to mix things up, give your button-down a little sultry edge by sporting a bralette underneath, and leaving a couple buttons undone at the top. This look works really well with an oversized shirt — so consider borrowing your boyfriend’s or husband’s button-down.

As a crop top

Among the bolder ways to wear a bralette is to rock it as a crop top. The easiest way to pull this off is to opt for a bralette that looks less like lingerie — so seek out prints, unconventional fabrics like denim or leather, or unique details like buttons. Wear it under a blazer with a high-waisted pencil skirt for a look that’s sophisticated yet sexy, or try it with a maxi skirt and a layering top (like a denim jacket or open chambray button-down).

Pro tip: Pairing a bralette with pants, shorts, or a skirt in the exact same hue makes it look like you’re simply wearing matching coordinates. Plus, it’s a fabulous way to try the monochromatic trend.

Under an off-the-shoulder top

There’s something impossibly yet subtly sultry about off-the-shoulder sweaters and blouses. But they do present one challenge: What kind of bra are you supposed to wear under them? Do you have to opt for strapless? Not necessarily. Lacy bralette straps can look gorgeous with these shoulder-baring styles.

Under backless pieces

Backless dresses and tops are super fun to wear for a night out on the town, and they offer an excellent opportunity to show off your favorite bralettes. That way, you won’t have to stress about finding the perfect backless bra (or forgoing one altogether).

Feeling inspired? Hopefully, this guide has given you plenty of ideas for how to show off those bralettes that are meant to be seen.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

As the temperatures rise, one thing is on your mind: It’s beach season, and you need a new swimsuit that’s going to flatter your figure. But just like any other garment, it’s important to take your body type into account when shopping for bathing suits. And it’s an especially important consideration with swimsuits because you’ll be baring so much skin. In other words: you’ll want a bathing suit that fits you flawlessly, hugging you in all the right places and flaunting your favorite assets in the best way possible.

Which swimsuit is right for your shape? Follow this guide to find out.

Hourglass

You’ve got curves for days, so why not choose a swimsuit that shows them off? There are several different styles that will not only put your curves on display but accentuate your small waist in proportion to your bust and hips.

For example, one-pieces are totally on-trend right now, and they have a certain classic chic look that’s appropriate for any occasion. Moreover, with a high-cut leg and plunging neckline, they can still accentuate your feminine figure in a sultry way. You might even look for a one-piece with a belt that draws the eye to your tiny waist.

We also love retro two-pieces for the hourglass shape. A high-waisted bottom is super flattering if you have larger hips, and gives you the reassurance of extra coverage on the bottom. Opt for a balconette top to bring attention to your decolletage.

Pear-shaped

If you’re curvier on the bottom (wider hips and derriere), the idea is to create some visual balance. Of course, you also want to be sure you have enough coverage on the bottom.

Any bathing suit that draws the eye upward — such as with eye-catching detailing or bright patterns on top, or a plunging neckline, works super well on a pear shape. As far as bottoms go, look for something with a slightly wider waistband and a lower cut leg hole.

Related: How To Buy A Supportive Swimsuit

Athletic

Is your figure pretty straight up and down? The truth is, you can pull off nearly any style of bathing suit from a bandeau to a halter, but if you’re seeking to create the illusion of curves, there are a few swimsuit styles you may want to try. One-piece swimsuits with strategic cut-outs or ruching, as well as bikinis with ruffles, can make you look curvier. You can also opt for push-up bikinis or tops with padding if you’re looking to amp up the cleavage. String bikini bottoms with ties on the side and bottoms with a higher cut leg opening can make your hips and behind look curvier, too.

Large-busted

If you have larger breasts, you have two priorities when it comes to swimsuit shopping: making sure you have adequate coverage on top, and creating a little balance on the bottom. It’s a good idea to opt for bathing suit tops that come in traditional bra sizes (with a band and cup size). Underwire goes a long way in regards to support, and you may want to look for a top with molded cups if you’re seeking to shape your bust as well.

As far as styles go, a halter top is always flattering, as is any bra-style top with an adjustable band and straps. An asymmetrical neckline is also ideal for those with broader shoulders (it draws the eye upward). If you’re looking to achieve a minimizing effect, avoid any eye-catching details like ruffles on the top.

Remember

There’s a swimsuit for every shape — choosing one that looks fabulous on you requires knowing your body type — and what kind of look you want to achieve! Hopefully, this guide will help you to find one that makes you feel comfortable, chic, and most importantly, confident.

Related: Where To Buy Swimsuits For Full Busts

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

It goes without saying that sports bras are indispensable in any woman’s wardrobe — no matter what kind of exercise you do or how often. Not only are many of them designed to be supportive enough minimize bounce and protect your breasts during your workout, but also to wick sweat away. The result? A more comfortable sweat session all around.

But how many sports bras do you need? Well, the answer depends on several different lifestyle factors. While you may know how many regular bras to have in your rotation, you may not know how many of these specialty undergarments it makes sense to have.

That’s why we’re delving into the ultra-common question in this guide.

How often do you work out?

This is arguably the most important question to ask yourself when determining how many sports bras you need.

Are you someone who hits the gym two to three (or fewer) times a week? Then you can probably get away with just two sports bras. Two is definitely the minimum we recommend because it’s advisable to wash your sports bra after each wear. If you have more than one, then you’ll still have one to wear while the other one is in the laundry pile.

On the other hand, if you’re the kind of gal who hits the gym five or more days a week, you’re going to need more than two. Ideally, you’ll have at least four sports bras in your arsenal to switch out throughout the week.

Related: 7 Signs You’re Wearing The Wrong Sports Bra

What kinds of exercise do you do?

Some of us stick with one kind of physical activity we love, like running or Yoga. If that’s the case, then you may not need as many sports bras (as long as you don’t work out five or more days a week, of course). That’s because you’ll likely only need one style of bra.

For example, Yogis may prefer lightweight wire-free compression sports bras, whereas runners will likely only wear super supportive encapsulation sports bras with separated cups to reduce bounce when they’re working out.

But the more variety your fitness regime has, the more sports bras you’ll need. That’s because different kinds of physical activity call for different levels of support. For example, a low-impact sports bra works just fine for exercises like Pilates and strength training (anything that doesn’t cause your breasts to bounce much). These sports bras don’t typically have any padding or underwire, have narrower shoulder straps, and may or may not have separated cups.

Meanwhile, a medium-impact sports bra is ideal for activities such as power walking, using an elliptical trainer, and hiking, as they can better restrict breast movement. And high-impact sports bras are best for activities like running, plyometrics, and aerobics, as you’ll be pounding the ground and therefore require better bounce control to protect your breasts. These styles tend to have wider shoulder straps and underbands and individual cups (sometimes with underwire and/or side boning).

How often do you do laundry?

As previously mentioned, we advise washing your sports bras after every wear. And this isn’t just for hygienic reasons, either — it’s also to ensure you preserve its longevity. When left on the bra, sweat can break down the elastic and other fibers that contribute to its shape and support.

Pro tip: It’s a good idea to get the sweat off your sports bra as soon as you can, so when you get home from the gym, toss it in a basin with some detergent and let it soak. This is also why it’s best to opt for sports bras made with moisture-wicking material.

So, you’ll obviously need to consider how frequently you do your laundry in deciding how many sports bras to own. Do you do laundry on a daily basis? Then you can probably get away with two sports bras, provided you only exercise a few times a week.

However, if you’re someone who only does your laundry a couple times a week, then you’ll definitely need more sports bras in your collection to ensure you have a clean one to wear any time you work out.

The bottom line is, the number of sports bras you need will range from two to seven, but it all depends on how often you work out, how often you do laundry, and how much variety you incorporate into your exercise routine.

Related: How Should A Sports Bra Fit?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Active Sports Bra P5541 in Black

If there’s one buzz phrase we’re super psyched has been spreading like wildfire, it’s body positivity. While it may have started as a trendy term, it’s actually grown into a full-fledged movement — and if you’re suddenly eager to get on board, we’re not surprised.

Body positivity is all about accepting and appreciating your body with all of its imperfections and “flaws,” and regardless of any and all changes it may go through. Sound a little easier said than done? Sure, in today’s society, we’re constantly bombarded with unrealistic ideals of beauty. But there are certain measures you can take to build a healthier relationship with your body.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the basics.

Track negative self-talk

In a 2011 body image survey for Glamour magazine, 300 women of all shapes and sizes were asked to write down how many negative thoughts they had about their body throughout the day. On average, they reported having 13 negative thoughts, and a whopping 97 percent admitted to having at least one “I hate my body” moment. The fact is, these thoughts can become highly destructive over time. Because the more you think them, the more you start to believe them — and that can negatively impact your mood, behavior, and overall self-worth. After all, neuroscience has proven that the more you think negative thoughts about your body, the stronger those neural pathways get. But if you can immediately acknowledge them, you can mentally train yourself to think more body-positive thoughts.

Here’s what to do: Start keeping a log of your negative thoughts about your body. Don’t just record the thought itself, but the time/place and circumstances surrounding it. That way, you can start identifying certain factors that trigger those critical thoughts. The more aware you are of this negative self-talk, the sooner you can start to stop it.

Related: How To Be Confident In Lingerie

Start positive affirmations

Now that you’ve begun to weed out those negative thoughts about your body, you’ve made room for some positive ones.

Plus-size supermodel Ashley Graham as admitted that she relies on saying daily affirmations to herself in the mirror keep her self-esteem strong. Need a little inspiration? Graham’s affirmations include: “You are bold. You are brilliant, and you are beautiful.” And if she notices a so-called flaw, she makes it a point to say something about it with a positive spin — as in, “’I love you too, hips.”

So go ahead and try it: come up with a mantra that you repeat every day, or if you feel too bashful to talk to yourself out loud, write it down and read it. You’d be amazed at what simply cracking a smile can do, too: research has shown that smiling at yourself in the mirror for just a few seconds can significantly boost your happiness and improve how you feel about yourself while lowering your stress levels.

Follow body positive influencers

It’s easy to feel down on yourself after scrolling through your social media feeds. After all, most people are only posting pictures where they look their best (and in many cases, those pictures have been filtered, Photoshopped, or otherwise doctored).

That’s why it’s a great idea to start filling your newsfeed with posts from body-positive celebrities, bloggers, and other influencers — anyone who’s likely to make you feel better in your own skin. And fortunately, there are a number of A-listers who have been known to post images and messages that promote celebrating your body.

For example, Hillary Duff has been known to post Instagrams that clearly show her cellulite or other “imperfections.” She once captioned a photo: “Since websites and magazines love to share ‘celeb flaws’ — well I have them! My body has given me the greatest gift of my life: Luca, 5 years ago. I’m turning 30 in September and my body is healthy and gets me where I need to go. Ladies, let’s be proud of what we’ve got and stop wasting precious time in the day wishing we were different, better, and unflawed.”

Wouldn’t you rather scroll through to see images of women who embrace their bodies next time you check IG?

Ultimately, body positivity means changing the way you see yourself, and the aforementioned steps are a great start in your journey to becoming comfortable in your own skin. One final tip: Be sure to surround yourself with body-positive people. Supporting each other in your endeavors to embrace your bodies can only make you more successful.

Related: Imperfection Is Beauty: 6 Beautiful Things That Make You Unique

Featured image lingerie:

Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 in Red/Black, Bronze, Black, Dusty Rose | Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze | Charlotte Highwaist Brief 6917 in Red/Black, Black, Dusty Rose