Very few women skip onto the beach thinking, "I absolutely love every inch of my body!"  So if this resonates please know you're not alone.  Whatever it is you're feeling less than confident about doesn't need to inhibit your enjoyment of the beautiful weather, the beach or the pool.  When you're navigating a changing body shape as well, no amount of "Don't worry, nobody else is noticing your wobbly bits", is going to be quite the magic wand to give you the confidence you need.

That confidence is achievable by the way.  But whilst you're finding your way there we have the next best thing - clever styling.

Your holiday isn't waiting for you to lose a stone and the beach isn't reserved for women with six-packs.  The pool doesn't check your dress size before letting you in either.  You deserve to enjoy every sunny moment in the body you have today.

Here's our quick fix guide to get you started......

Start with a swimsuit that makes you feel amazing

Forget trends for a minute.

The most flattering swimsuit is the one that fits beautifully and makes you feel supported.

We're focusing on the one-piece but don't think for one minute you can't do a bikini, tankini, or whatever kini you want.  For swimsuits choose styles with ruching,  tummy-control or a fabulous print.  Comfort will get you somewhere nearer to confidence than something that you have to keep retrieving from your bum cleavage.   See all of our pics in our Shop The Look inspiration boards.

Choose colours that make your complexion glow and styles that celebrate your shape rather than trying to hide it.  You know this!  Why should your beachwear be any different?

The magic is in the styling

Here's a little secret...

Most stylish women on holiday aren't just wearing swimwear, they're creating an outfit.  Think of your swimsuit as the foundation, then add pieces that make you feel effortlessly put together.

Wide-leg beach trousers

Lightweight linen or floaty beach trousers instantly create an elegant silhouette while still keeping you cool.

Perfect for walking to lunch or wandering around the resort without feeling overexposed.  Opt for these if your self-conscious about your legs for any reason.

A beautiful sarong

Never underestimate the humble sarong.  Tie it around your waist, knot it as a dress, drape it over your shoulders or wear it as a skirt. One piece of fabric can transform how you feel in seconds.  There are multiple ways to wear a sarong.  Practise with a few before your holiday.   You can create loads of looks with just one item.  Use this for covering up any middle areas you are not confident with.

Kaftans and beach shirts

A flowing kaftan is chic, comfortable and wonderfully forgiving.  Or try an oversized linen shirt worn open over your swimsuit for a relaxed, effortless look that works just as well with shorts later in the day.  Use these to cover up a multitude of insecurities or simply to protect more skin from the sun.

A lightweight beach dress

Slip one over your swimsuit and suddenly you're ready for lunch, shopping or an afternoon cocktail without feeling like you're wandering around in your costume.  So easy to move from one activity to another with minimal baggage.

Don't forget the accessories

Accessories are often what make an outfit feel finished.  A fabulous straw hat doesn't just protect your face—it adds instant glamour.  Statement sunglasses are a must and can make you feel polished before you've even applied any makeup.

A woven beach bag, metallic sandals, layered necklaces or colourful earrings all draw the eye upwards and help your outfit feel intentional rather than thrown together. Sometimes it's these little finishing touches that give us the confidence to walk a little taller.

Remember your colours

The right colours can work wonders.  When you're wearing shades that naturally flatter your skin tone, your complexion looks healthier, your eyes appear brighter and you often need less makeup.  It's amazing how much more confident you can feel simply because your colours are working with you instead of against you.  You may even find that more of the colours from your palette work when you're carrying a bit of extra tan.

Your body is not stopping anyone else's holiday

Can we just gently remind you of something? Nobody is studying your tummy by the pool.  They're far too busy chasing children, reading their book, applying sunscreen, ordering another ice cream or wondering where they've left their sunglasses.  And they probably have their own insecurities to dwell on.  We're all far more aware of our own than anyone else's.

Make memories, not excuses

Years from now, your children, grandchildren, friends or partner won't remember what size swimsuit you wore.  They'll remember you laughing in the sea, building sandcastles.  Go swimming, do it smiling, start living.  Don't let body confidence become something that's always waiting until "next summer." Style isn't about having the perfect body, it's about making the most of the one you have today.  If you are really struggling to embrace this concept you need to invest in your colour and style consultations to get you one stop closer to being that woman enjoying herself by the pool because she will always be the most stylish one there.

We meet women of all shapes and sizes every day.  They ALL have body insecurities and they ALL have potential to love their body a little bit more. Light up in the clothes and colours that make you feel like the best version of you.  We're here to help.

We are Jo and Wendy and we are The Style and Colour Company.  We have coached thousands of women to a happier more confident wardrobe and we're waiting to welcome you too.