Ask H&H: Bummed about Bikinis

Jul 22nd, 2010

Since H&H launched back in May, I have received many emails with questions from readers. So, I decided to start answering them here from time-to-time for everyone to read and hopefully, enjoy. If you have a silly, serious or superficial question send it in through the Contact page. Love hearing from you and thanks for reading! Here goes…

Dear H&H:

I went to the pool yesterday with my 6-month-old. Being a native Floridian I have a drawer full of bikinis – very tiny bikinis. I haven’t owned a ‘bathing suit’ since I was 14. My selections were so inappropriate for the community pool, I ended up wearing a massive t-shirt over a string bikini! So, my question is what is ‘appropriate’ yet attractive swimwear for a mom?

Dear Bummed over Bikinis-

First rule, NEVER say goodbye to your bikinis. That would be admitting defeat and then who knows what’s next? It’s a very slippery-slope. You may find yourself in ‘mom jeans’ and getting a ‘smart’ hair cut. Know that you will be back in them – just not this season. For two years, I bought combos of tankinis and board shorts. Board, not BOY, shorts. Boy shorts are an absolute no-no because they cut off at your widest body point. Board shorts can be found anywhere. I usually get mine at Macy’s or Nordstroms. They cover your still-in-recovery rear while maintaining a youthful appearance. NEVER go matronly and avoid the one-piece. You may be a mom but you are not a grandma!

The tankini top and board short bottom are also perfect for a clingy baby that insists on showing your boobs to the entire pool. It is a very resilient combo. In the meantime, pull those bikinis out of the drawer and try them on once a month. You’ll know when they are ready for public consumption.

- H & H