Bootilicious beach body!

It’s time for sunshine, barbeques and flip-flops! Yes, summer is here again!

For many people, summer also means holidays. But if the thought of bearing all on the beach makes you wish it was still November, here are a few quick tips to build up your beach body confidence!

Appreciate yourself
Everyone’s done it. We go out to buy the perfect swimsuit, only to come home hours later totally depressed and empty-handed.

Why is it that changing room mirrors and lights are so unflattering? Why is there always a skinny size nothing in the next cubicle? And why is it that even when you have a picture of the perfect swimsuit in your head, no cossie you try looks quite how you imagined?!

It could be something to do with the size 6 magazine model you saw it on in the first place! Of course its going to look good on her - she’s tanned, ridiculously skinny and has the benefits of good lighting, professional make up artists and hair stylists, all used to make us want to buy that swim-suit.

Of course, it’s fine to use magazines for ideas on styles that will most flatter your own shape, but remember that we are real people wearing real clothes! Very few of us look like Elle McPherson, so try to identify something about your body that you like and find a way to hide those bits you don’t like! A sarong can cover thighs or a tankini top will cover a tummy, if you’re not happy about showing yours.

And remember that when you feel good, you look good. A healthy diet and regular exercise will help you feel good on the inside and this shows on the outside!

Pamper yourself
Exposing skin is frightening, particularly after months of being hidden under coats and woolly jumpers. So to prepare your skin for the beach, take care of it not only from the inside through drinking more water (at least 8 glasses per day) and eating plenty of fruit and vegetables (at least 5 portions a day) but also on the outside, with regular exfoliation and moisturisation.

For an extra special treat, have a manicure and pedicure and then continue them yourself regularly. You’ll be amazed at how pampered you’ll feel!

Many of us also feel healthier ad more confident with a tan. Thankfully, with the vast range of self-tanners available today, acquiring that all over glow has never been quicker or safer!

Make the most of accessories!
Just because you’re wearing less clothing, doesn’t mean you can’t be well put together - in fact, all the more reason to accessorise. Some funky flip-flops, stylish sunglasses or sun hat and a great bag will dress up any swimsuit and steal some of the focus from your body. Not only will you feel less exposed, but you’ll look fantastic too!

Banish Doubts
Tell yourself you look good and stop worrying that other people are looking at you. They’re most likely not, and if they are, tell yourself it’s because you look so good (and because they want your hat!).

Concentrate
On having fun, that is! Enjoy yourself and flaunt that beach body with confidence and style.