Is Your Swim and Resort Game Off? Here’s How to Nail the Look Without Overthinking It

We’ve all been there: staring down endless racks of swimwear with lighting that does nothing for your confidence and an inner monologue that feels borderline brutal. Bikini? One-piece? High-cut? Low-rise? It’s enough to make you want to skip the whole thing and just stick to oversized tees. But listen—looking good poolside or oceanside isn’t about bending yourself to fit some pre-set mold. The trick? Finding pieces that feel like you. Shopping for swim and resort pieces doesn’t need to be stressful—it can be fun, even empowering. And trust me, when you’re wearing something you love, you’re already pulling off the “sexy and confident” thing without even trying. Let’s break this down into real, actionable tips that don’t feel like a Pinterest board come to life.

Ditch the “Perfect Body” Pressure: It’s All About the Fit

First, let’s dismantle the outdated idea that shopping for swimsuits requires you to have some mythical “summer body” ready to flaunt. No. The only thing you need to bring is your actual body and a little patience to find the fits that make you feel incredible.

You’d be surprised how much a small detail—like a scoop neckline that elongates, a cut-out that feels bold but not too much, or a bottom that hits at your natural waist—can elevate how you see yourself. Stop fighting trends that weren’t designed for you in the first place. If you’ve got curves, lean into high-waisted bottoms or a supportive top that gives you shape without digging in. If you’re more athletic, don’t be afraid to play with bold cuts or prints that add dimension.

When shopping for swimsuits, it’s less about figuring out what you “should” wear and more about trying on the unexpected. If you’ve been living in black bikinis forever, try a statement one-piece in a color you’d never think to wear. If you hate skimpy bottoms, look for options with cheeky coverage or adjustable ties that give you control over how much you’re showing off. It’s all about you deciding, not the other way around.

Treat Your Suit Like an Outfit, Not an Obligation

Here’s something no one talks about enough: swimsuits can be styled. Yes, styled. Think about it. If you wouldn’t wear a shirt without considering what pants, shoes, or accessories go with it, why are we so quick to throw on a swimsuit without a second thought?

Cover-ups are an easy place to start. A gauzy button-up or a pair of lightweight linen trousers can turn your pool look into an actual outfit. Sarongs? Timeless, and you can tie them a dozen ways to switch up your look. Don’t sleep on accessories either—chunky gold hoops, a wide-brim hat, or oversized sunglasses can transform your beach ensemble into something that feels put-together without even trying.

And shoes? Slide sandals or strappy flats are great, but if you’re hopping between beach bars or a pool party, try a pair of easy espadrilles or even sleek sneakers. Suddenly, your swimsuit isn’t just something you wear in the water—it’s the anchor to a look that works from sun-up to sundown.

The Real Power Move? Resort Wear Done Right

Let’s pause for a minute. Swimsuits may get all the attention, but don’t overlook resort wear for women either while you’re suit shopping, they go hand in hand. Here’s why: resort pieces are the unsung heroes of looking put-together without any of the stress. It’s like having an outfit that works anywhere—whether you’re lounging poolside, grabbing lunch at the cabana, or wandering into town for a cocktail.

Think breezy maxi dresses that feel as comfy as pajamas but look like a million bucks. Or co-ord sets in lightweight fabrics that make getting dressed a literal no-brainer. A great resort wardrobe has versatility built in—it flows effortlessly from beach towel to dinner without you breaking a sweat. It’s the “throw it on and look fabulous” magic we all secretly want, especially when it’s too hot to care about layers or styling hacks.

And don’t forget fabrics. Cotton, linen, and gauze are your go-tos here. They’re breathable, travel well, and only get better when they’re lived-in. Skip anything too stiff or heavy—resort style is supposed to be effortless. If you can’t crumple it up and toss it in a beach bag, it’s not the move.

Stop Chasing “Trends” That Don’t Serve You

You’ve seen them—those pieces that look great in photos but feel ridiculous in real life. Neon monokinis with more cut-outs than actual fabric. Triangle tops held together by dental floss. Whatever TikTok is hyping this week. Trends are fine for inspiration, but when you’re shopping for yourself, forget what’s trending and focus on what’s timeless.

Here’s a hack: when you’re trying on something new, ask yourself if you’d still love it five years from now. If the answer’s no, pass. Swimwear is an investment—pieces that fit well and make you feel great are worth splurging on because they’ll be the ones you reach for season after season.

That doesn’t mean you need to be boring, though. Timeless doesn’t equal basic. A standout print, rich color, or unique silhouette can feel modern without being disposable. Build your swim wardrobe like you’d build your closet—with pieces that mix, match, and actually last.

Confidence Is the Best “Style Hack” You’ve Got

You’ve probably heard this a million times, but let me remind you: how you feel in your swimsuit is what people notice first. Not whether you’re wearing the trendiest cut or the boldest print.

Confidence comes from wearing pieces that reflect you—your taste, your personality, and the version of yourself you’re happiest with. Maybe that’s a classic black one-piece that hugs all the right places. Maybe it’s a printed bikini that feels playful and fun. Maybe it’s an oversized linen shirt that makes you feel like you’re living in a vacation ad.

There’s no “right way” to look sexy or stylish—it’s all about showing up for yourself. When you feel good, you look good. Full stop.

Make It Yours

Swim and resort style shouldn’t feel like work. The goal isn’t to fit into someone else’s version of what looks good—it’s to show up, feel like yourself, and have fun. The beach doesn’t care what you’re wearing, and neither does the pool. So find the pieces that make you feel unstoppable, toss on your sunnies, and get out there. You’ve got this.

xoxo