Ah yes, bikini season is here and with a vengeance. I’m trying to amp up my workouts and should probably drink less wine, sigh…why does it have to be so complicated? It’s the silly season; it’s hot out, and rosé goes with everything and adds calories too. I know what needs to happen for me to wear a bikini, and sometimes, I don’t feel like it!  

The days of Bain De Soleil suntans and skimpy swimsuits went with my twenties, and now I’m slathering on 30+ sunscreen and wearing sun hats to protect my hair colour, another sigh. Even with half-decent genes, I struggle with what I see in the mirror. Yes, I’m just like everyone else. But, to quote Elaine Benes from Seinfeld, “Is it possible I’m not as attractive as I think I am?” LOL, I am NOT complaining. Honestly, for the most part, I like myself. However, I wouldn’t be human if I didn’t notice some flaws; to be clear, we are talking externally, not internally (too much to discuss on the other subject matter).

“I AM NOT PERFECT, NO ONE IS!“

The bikini first debuted in 1946 at an outdoor fashion show in Paris, designed by Parisian engineer Louis Réard. He named the swimsuit after Bikini Atoll (located in the Pacific Ocean), where testing on the nuclear Bomb was taking place. To say the bikini has evolved since 1946 would be an understatement.

And like my 50-plus body, it’s changing too, or at least it feels like it. But, every season, it’s the same old story. Is it time to retire the bikini for a one-piece? It’s been debated on fashion blogs: “How old is too old to wear a bikini?” Don’t get me wrong; there are amazing sexy one-piece swimsuits. In fact, the need to hang on to my bikini probably has more to do with me hanging on to my youth than anything else, n’es pas?

According to one article, I should have hung up my bikini ten years ago! The fact that this is even being debated should be a red flag for me…must not read those articles. I don’t think I look horrible in one. However, a suntan makes everything look better. To quote a friend, “Tanned fat looks better than white fat,”  We can all agree on that one! LOL

Helen Mirren, at 72, still rocks a bikini…what’s her secret? Confidence, with a side of modesty. Yes, I’m referring to age appropriateness, meaning, leave the thong to the twenty-year-olds! I don’t care how fit or in shape you are; some things need to be left to the imagination. No, seriously, I mean it! I love the approach to “love your body” and “you do you,” wear what makes you feel good but don’t lose your shit on bad style.

And for all of you who don’t buy into wearing a bikini? I say, so what? This is not about shaming; I say, be confident, comfortable, age-appropriate and “you being the best you” on the beach…enjoy summer cuz you’re the Bomb! 

LC

xo