Bikini Season: Here We Go Again

Ah yes, bikini season has arrived—right on cue. I’m trying to step up my workouts and should probably drink less wine (sigh). Why does it always feel so complicated? It’s that silly time of year: it’s hot, rosé goes with everything, and yes… it adds calories. I know what needs to happen for me to feel good in a bikini, and sometimes I just don’t feel like doing it.

From Bain de Soleil to SPF 30+

The days of Bain de Soleil tans and ultra-skimpy swimsuits ended somewhere in my twenties. These days, I’m slathering on SPF 30+, wearing sun hats, and protecting my hair colour—another sigh. Even with decent genes, I still struggle with what I see in the mirror. So yes, I’m human. To quote Elaine Benes from Seinfeld: “Is it possible I’m not as attractive as I think I am?” LOL. And no, I’m not complaining—overall, I like myself. But let’s be honest, noticing a few external flaws comes with the territory (the internal stuff is a whole other conversation).

A Little History: The Birth of the Bikini

Fun fact: the bikini debuted in 1946 at an outdoor fashion show in Paris, designed by engineer Louis Réard. He named it after Bikini Atoll, where nuclear bomb testing was taking place at the time. Safe to say, the bikini has evolved since then—understatement of the year.

Hanging On—or Letting Go?

And like my 50-plus body, it’s still changing… or at least it feels that way. Every season, the same question pops up: Is it time to retire the bikini in favour of a one-piece? Fashion blogs love debating, “How old is too old to wear a bikini?” Don’t get me wrong—there are some incredibly sexy one-pieces out there. But if I’m honest, hanging on to my bikini probably has more to do with hanging on to my youth than anything else, n’est-ce pas?

According to one article, I should’ve ditched the bikini a decade ago. The fact that this is even a debate feels like a red flag… which is why I should probably stop reading those articles. I don’t think I look terrible in one—and let’s be real, a tan helps everything. As a friend once said, “Tanned fat looks better than white fat.” Hard to argue with that. 😄

Confidence (with a Side of Modesty)

Helen Mirren still rocks a bikini in her seventies—what’s her secret? Confidence, paired with a little modesty. And yes, I’m talking about age-appropriateness. Some things—like thongs—can stay with the twenty-somethings. I don’t care how fit you are; a little mystery never hurt anyone. Love your body, absolutely. Wear what makes you feel good—but let’s not completely abandon good style in the name of empowerment.

You Do You

And for those who choose not to wear a bikini at all? So what. This isn’t about shaming—it’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and like the best version of you at the beach. Enjoy summer. You’re the bomb. 💥

LC

xo