Eberjey waverly top and waverly bottoms

I’ve been anxiously awaiting this announcement for a few months now and am SO excited to share that I’m in the May issue of People StyleWatch magazine! It’s probably one of the most exciting things I’ve ever had a chance to be a part of and was so thrilled to be asked to be a part of the story again after the denim story last fall. Although I was unsure at first about the idea of doing a swim shoot, some encouragement from my loved ones ultimately led to me saying yes and I’m so glad that I did!

A few months ago I headed down to the PSW offices for my fitting and had a chance to try on 30+ swimsuits that the editors had specifically pulled for each of us based on our body types and swimsuit struggles. I usually have a hard time finding a top and bottom that I love in the same sizes and that accentuate my petite frame. I tend to lean towards a triangle top or a bandeau because anything else can overwhelm my figure.

The most fun part of this experience was getting a chance to try on so many different suits that you would normally have to order to get an idea of sizing. Swimsuits are tough for so many reasons, but there are also very few places where you can really try on some of the newer suit designers. Most of the time you have to order them and wing it!

After a fun session trying suits on I walked away anxious for the shoot (and to find out which one I’d actually be wearing) and also wanting to go home and buy every single one of my favorites. I was most surprised to find that some of my favorite picks were actually really affordable! After teaming up with the PSW crew to find as many of the ones that worked well for me as possible, I came up with the list of 5 that were my runner-ups from the one I wore in the shoot.

1. Strapless

The first suit I tried on was Marysia in the scalloped top and bottom in a marigold yellow. I have been a huge fan since last summer but had never tried them on before. I loved the fit and the color was adorable, but for anything more adventurous in the water I might need some more support.

2. Triangle Top

The editors ended up picking my favorite suit for me to wear for the shoot! The Eberjey waverly top and waverly bottoms were after all 30 suits my favorite in terms of fit and how comfortable and cute it was. I loved the ruffles and as a fan of their lingerie and sleepwear I can tell you the suit is no different. My second favorite triangle top was this Shoshanna ruffled bikini and also a strappy Express top that is a similar version to the Mikoh line.

3. Criss-cross

Although for everyday wear not the most tan-line friendly, I love the support and fit of the criss-cross tops. They’re more interesting and are great if you’re more into water sports or something where you need a snug fit. They usually come in really fun colors too – my favorite of these was definitely the Mikoh in neon yellow that one of the editors had found!

4. One Piece

There are few times when I’ve ever put on a swimsuit and said… YES, just yes. I had that moment with this insane Beach Riot one piece suit. It might be more suited for a sunny day out at Coachella or worn with cutoffs and sandals, but I loved it and never have wanted to leave in something so badly. One of the looks you won’t see in the issue is this Ella Moss one piece suit (also with ruffles) in a fuchsia pink. That ended up being our favorite of the one pieces and was not only flattering but extremely comfortable, too.

5. Favorite Tops Under $20

It was so hard to choose a favorite at the end of the day and I found a few tops that I loved and knew would be great for this summer. I was surprised that several of my favorites were from H&M and fit really well (although I’d recommend sizing up one!). They’re great staples for anyone look to change up their bikini rotation with another piece!

What an experience! After a crazy day of shooting (picture wind machines and Beyonce blaring) and the most amazing faux tan, hair and makeup it was without a doubt one of the most memorable things I’ll ever do. Thank you so much to the StyleWatch team for having me as part of the story, be sure to pick up your copy this month!

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