Alright, it’s almost summer time – who else is grappling with anxious thoughts about navigating the pool situation rather than viewing the horizon with excitement? Yea, my hand is raised high.
Looking for a swimsuit as a newly found Christian woman…let’s talk about it. I used to be the girl to wear swimsuits that just barely covered my body. But now as a woman that wants to honor her body, dress modestly, and not be a stumbling block to others, it is a stressful time of year for me.
No one tells you what is now acceptable to wear as a Christian on a hot day by the pool. And on top of that, dealing with body insecurities, it puts the icing on the cake of wanting to avoid the pool and beach all summer. I used to convince myself that I didn’t enjoy these places because I didn’t like them, but I think the pressure of appearance and proper covering just added a layer of anxiety that I did not want to bring into my life, so I avoided it altogether.
Walking into Target, I was hopeful to find a reasonably priced swimsuit that looked decent. Yet all I could find were deep V bathing suits, that were just shy of revealing everything. It’s like they want women to show less and less. I picked something off the shelf settling for the best of the worst and tried it on. I laughed in the fitting room as it was so unflattering and yet still revealing more than I was comfortable with.
The laughter was quickly followed by a pep talk in the mirror speaking scripture over myself of how I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I left a bit discouraged that I wouldn’t get to go to the pool the next day – as I had nothing to wear. But it led to some research.
I was hoping to have a list of options to share with you that would be helpful with some bathing suit suggestions. But to be honest, I have tried a few and am not fully satisfied to the point of recommending to others yet. I am searching for something modest, yet something cute that still reflects my style. I will say, I am leaning more towards the swim skirt/dress style. But the items I’ve ordered were not what I was fully looking for.
As frustrating as it may feel, I encourage you not to settle for what the world offers at chain stores, exposing more than you want, or for something that feels unflattering and discouraging, or avoiding the beach and pool altogether.
And remember, your identity is found in the Lord, you were created in His image. He loves you and has called you beautiful, so remember that! I’m learning that it’s not about what others think, but the right question is what does God think? I know He is proud of me for trying to honor my body. Even if I get it wrong, the heart is there and I trust the Holy Spirit to lead me to the right sites and continue to renew my mind in body positivity and encourage me as I continue on this journey.
Stay encouraged my friends, and know that you are not alone. May summer go back to being fun and refreshing for you!
I hear you loud and clear. As my body has changed (sagging) over the course of however (75) years of my life, I have found that you can wear just about anything to the beach and/or pool. So what if your body isn’t perfect, who’s is? You have to be comfortable, first.
A tankini and boy shorts with attached underwear is a good option and has worked for me. A place like Dick’s sporting store is a good start to find the shorts. A pretty coverup is an option, too. You can wear it into the water as well. Good luck in finding what’s right for you.
Thank you for sharing openly. And thank you for the recommendations – these are some great ideas!
This is so good and so relatable. I was just having this conversation in my head of what to do!
I’m so glad to hear that it was relatable and glad to know I’m not the only one!
I completely understand, finding swimsuits that are modest and fit your body is hard. You want to feel comfortable and look beautiful as well.
Exactly!!