I’m wearing a plus size bikini, y’all! I’m obsessed with this retro-feeling halter neck bikini top from Avenue and these ruched, high-waisted swim bottoms! When I tried this adorable suit on, I was feeling so great, I headed straight out the door and hit the beach here in Chicago. So, how do you get a bikini body? All you have to do is PUT ON A BIKINI!

Body Positivity and the Plus Size Bikini

Even though it seems like mainstream media has started to change their tune and offer more body positive images and content, plus size women are still bombarded with messages that their bodies aren’t good enough, shouldn’t be revealed and should be fully covered. Bloggers and social influencers have made a huge difference in this space and I’m proud to be one of them. Together, we’ve made big strides in democratizing fashion for plus size women. We are promoting the message that ALL bodies are beautiful and that fashion has nothing to do with being fat. I mean — just look how far we’ve come! I’m wearing a PLUS SIZE BIKINI! The first one I’d ever seen in my life debuted about 3 years ago — and it was like a lightning bolt to the plus size industry. Now, every main stream plus size retailer is carrying plus size bikinis. And plus size WOMEN are buying and wearing them. [insert happy, jiggling dance]

Outfit details: Twisted Halter Bikini Top, Shirred Swim Bottoms c/o Avenue

I can’t tell you how confident and sassy I felt in this swimsuit. The Twisted Halter Bikini Top made me feel like I had plenty of support for the girls. And I love that the band is adjustable like a bra, but without the hook and eye closures. And, these Shirred Swim Bottoms have a nice high waist, so my belly felt covered but still showed plenty of skin!

I bought a size 20, since swim always tends to run a little small.

It was a blazing hot day in Chicago, so I literally had to sit in the shade…but who cares when you have an adorable pink parasol!

Also, this O-Ring Swim Coverup from Avenue is also sexy and practical! It slips right over your head and you feel covered enough to walk to and from your room or pop into a convenience store after your day at the beach! OH — and this Contrast Stitch Macrame Tote is perfect for stashing all of your beach essentials!