Make the Most of Your Mommy Curves With the Perfect Swimsuit Style for Your Body

Swimsuits. Those dreaded skimpy pieces of shrink-wrapped fabric that cling to your figure's worse faults and hide nothing from the harsh glare of summer sun.

If you're like me, your post-baby body isn't exactly bikini-worthy, but that shouldn't mean you should cower behind a bulky cover-up in the shade.

This summer, embrace your mommy shape with these swimsuit styles that cover what you need without screaming "Mommy-Is-A-Has-Been."

I'd like a tall, light-on-the-leg, Mono-kini

These hot little numbers are one of the most innovative design ideas to hit the beach in recent years. Some have mocked the cutout sides, but there is no doubt that this not-a-bikini, not-a-tankini, not-quite-a-full-piece suit can do wonders for your swim chic. There are a dizzying array of options to choose from, so whether you want to bare a little or a lot, you can find a flattering suit to fit your taste.

Spandex, Please!

As the proud mommy of a newly-minted lil man, I'm not rushing out to greet the waves this summer. The stretch marks and left-over baby tummy aren't going to shut up and go away anytime soon-at least not without cosmetic surgery. Which is why the new styling of the miracle-shaping swimwear is a refreshing change from the boring, only-in-black suits of previous years. Retailers like Victoria's Secret have a nice selection of styles...and you can snatch up great deals by purchasing suits after the early spring rush, so if you've been procrastinating your purchase, you'll be pleased to find your vice has a nice pay-off.

Go Retro.

Hail the era where curves dominated, everyone wanted to be a size twelve, and bathing suits covered figure flaws while showcasing full hips and bosoms. Retro-inspired bathing suits popped up on Spring/Resort runways as a viable alternative to the standard bikini. Pick a sassy, boy-short cut halter or a hi-cut full piece in a kitschy print, tuck a flower behind your ear, and wow 'em with your glamour-goddess.

Top it off with:

• A fabulous pair of sunglasses. You can find the latest looks for any budget (less than ten dollars!) at popular retailers like Forever 21 and other discount stores.
  
• A generous slathering of sunscreen. Crispy mama does not equal hot mama.
• An over sized, colorful beach tote for all your mommy gear

Don't Become a Headline! Three Swimsuit Mistakes to Avoid:

Stuffed Sausage: Coming Soon to a Dinner Table Beach Near You

Pick a size that fits without tugging, pulling, riding, or cramming. I've been guilty of ruining perfectly good outfits by wearing the wrong size-even the tiniest girl looks like a stuffed sausage in a suit three sizes too small. Remember that the number on the tag is inconsequential if *you* look bad.

The Saggy Flasher Terrorizes Local Pool--Again

Don't buy too big, either. Swimsuits that are too big will cause pool-side embarrassment and will actually be more likely to uncover rather than cover whatever you were hoping to hide.

The Mascara Chronicles, Episode 3: Black Tears and Smears

Nothing ruins a sizzling summer look like mascara tears running down your face after a dip in the pool. You may be tempted to go with your regular formula, but trust me, you'd rather have the focus on your lovely eyes instead of the black (or brown) smudges on your face.

Splurge on water-proof, mama.

Oooh...And don't forget your greatest accessory:

That sultry smile and confident attitude. 'Cause you're one hot mami.

Oui, Oui.

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Talkback: What are your biggest swimsuit peeves? How much flesh do you dare to bare? Do you hide behind a swimsuit cover-up, even when in the water? Where do you shop for swimsuits? How much is too much to spend on a suit? Voice your opinion by joining the community conversation via the comment link or contact me direct at editor [at] makemeahotmama.com.



When she's not busy mismanaging Make Me a Hot Mama, Alison (AJae) twitters, writes for A is for Activist! | AlisonJerabek.Com and Art. Freakified. | Freak News Daily, and plays mommy to an adorable little boy. In that order. (At least after said adorable boy is tucked into a snuggly bed. ;)
Drop her a line: editor[at]makemeahotmama.com Posted by AJae