Life

A woman wearing a yellow plus size bathing suit and a green-yellow-mint cape over it
Courtesy of Pepper M. Martin
7 Plus Size Bathing Suit Rules You Never Have To Follow
by Pepper M. Martin

Not to say I have problem with authority or anything like that, but I have a huge issue with fashions rules. Especially those rules casted upon plus size women and the plus size fashion community. With so many preposterous “what not to wear” rules created by the so called industry authorities, wearing what makes you smile seems more like a crime. I guess you can lock me up now because the weather is warming up, the beach is calling my name, and it’s time to break some plus size bathing suit rules that you shouldn't have to follow to begin with.

There are so many ways to work around the rules of plus size fashion, and swimwear is just another category plus size women are knocking down and flawlessly dominating. I mean, just look at Miss Ashley Graham, who can effortlessly rock a gold lame two-piece. Although I may not have the stylist and cash like Graham, I can surely have her confidence when I walk along the sand.

In my mind, there’s only one rule to follow when it comes to bathing suits — wear the bathing suit that makes you smile. But you're bound to be bombarded with ridiculous rules over the summer. So here are some plus size bathing suit rules you should throw out this summer, along with your expired sunscreen.

1

Wear Black

Not saying the Morticia Adam look isn't hot, but you don't need to be limited to one hue. Instead opt for a a suit similar to this Nakimuli bright multi color one-piece ($130).

2

Cover Your Cellulite

Why? There is nothing wrong with embracing your cellulite, have a slice of pizza, and enjoying life.

3

Wear A Swimdress

Forget the swimdress from the past. If your gonna wear a swimdress for a little more coverage, rock a playful cut like this Bohemian swimdress ($111) from Becca.

4

Big Prints Are Bad

This is swimwear, not job interview. Have some fun with funky prints and motifs, like this rooster-patterned suit ($56) from Rue 107.

5

Avoid Cut Outs

Strategically placed cut outs can make a suit both sporty and sexy. The coverage is still there and a little bit of skin is an added benefit. Start with something subtle, like this cutout swimsuit ($33) from Forever 21.

6

Stay Away From Metallics

Shine bright this summer with metallic swimwear. Shimmering shades, like in this gold bikini ($54) from Swim Sexy, compliment all skin tones and types beautifully.

7

You Can’t Be Sexy On The Beach

I guess no one told the fashion authorities that plus size women bring sexy to the beach, poolside, cabana, and wet bar. Whether it's a sexy cut, color, or comination of the two like this white tie swimsuit ($95) from Swim Thick, you can bring sexy wherever you go this summer.