How to Feel Confident With Your Bikini Body

Summer is officially in full swing and the thought of trying to fit into last summer’s bikini after a long, cold winter can be daunting. However, there is no reason that everyone shouldn’t be able to feel beautiful and confident in a swimsuit. Here are a few tips and tricks to embrace your bikini body this summer.

Finding Your Confidence

First of all, embrace those curves! Let’s admit it, it is not easy to keep weight off after hibernating basically all winter long. With that being said, let your curves shine. The key to embracing your curves is finding the right bathing suit that will highlight the parts of your body that you love or feel most confident with. One-piece swimsuits are making a serious comeback this summer. I especially love this simple black one-piece from Urban Outfitters.

Next, get a tan. Being tan is most often the thing that makes women feel most confident in the summer. A glowing skin complexion will always make you feel more confident.

Another thing that can help you to feel more confident in your bikini body is to exfoliate and moisturize. Being on the beach all day or swimming in chlorine can take a toll on your skin. With the right skincare routine of rinsing, exfoliating, and moisturizing, your skin will feel refreshed and healthier, making you feel ever more vibrant and confident.

Next, try accessorizing. Never, and I mean never, underestimate the power of a few accessories. Although some accessories may not be totally practical for beach days, there are ways to subtly accessorize your look. Even simple sunglasses, like the Playa Mirrored Aviators by Quay, can help to update your look.

Lastly, try hitting the gym before heading out to the beach. Whether it’s just 20 minutes walking uphill or sprinting on the treadmill, a light workout always makes me feel stronger and sexier in a bathing suit. You don’t have to go full on Khloe Kardashian workout to make you feel confident in a bikini. With the right workout gear, like these adorable leggings from Neiman Marcus, you’ll be feeling more than ready to step out in your bikini. Even just a little cardio could help you feel more confident in a bathing suit!

These are just a few simple ways for you to feel like you rule the world when stepping out in your new bathing suit and bikini body.

Let me know in the comments below if you have tried any of these tips and whether they have made you feel confident with your bikini body!

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Basic Summer Outfit Essentials Everyone Should Have

Due to the weather, summer can be a tricky season for fashion. However, if you have the essentials, your summer style will be rocking all season long. While sporting extravagant outfits inspired by mainstream fashion icons can be tempting, summer is a great season to keep it simple and explore your own unique style.

As the weather is warming up it is important to keep cool. Crop tops are a great way to achieve that. While trends have recently moved towards choker band T-shirts, the crop top still remains a timeless and practical summer outfit essential. Due to the vast variety of styles that they come in, there is a crop top that fits everyone’s personal style. Not only is their versatility appealing, their practicality is as well. The material is mostly thin, allowing the Fashionista maximum breathability in the summer heat.

Although crop tops remain timeless in the ever-changing fashion world, there is a basic essential that is being slept on. The heat can discourage many from rocking a pair of jeans. However, not only do they serve as a great option for any outfit, they can also protect you from the potentially damaging rays of the summer sun. While caught up in working on your summer glow, it can be easy to forget sun protection. With jeans, you already have an incredibly fashionable built-in protectant. Similar to the crop top, jeans also come in a variety of styles, leaving you with endless unique fashion options.

To spice up any outfit, accessories are a great option. Whether it be a nice pair of shoes or an expressive makeup look, accessories are a great way to complete any outfit regardless of the season.

Summer is a great time to express your own sense of style, and when you have two incredibly practical and versatile clothing options, you can never go wrong. Tag @Cfashionista in your posts rocking your summer essentials!

Products You Need This Summer for Glowy and Natural Makeup

When summer comes around, I find myself needing to switch up my makeup routine to cooperate with the weather that summer brings. I’m not complaining, but no one wants their foundation dripping off their face while they’re sweating, am I right? Minimal makeup is so popular right now and I am embracing it with arms wide open. Less is more in the summer and time is money. So, I love a makeup look that I can do in 15 minutes so I have more time for coffee.

These products are my go-to’s during the summer as they create the most glowy, dewy look while giving you bronzed goddess vibes.

Base

Starting with a good base is so important. I never used to prime or moisturize my face before applying makeup and my foundation never went on smoothly. Ever since I started applying Mac Strobe Cream before my foundation, it has made the biggest difference and my foundation goes on so smooth. Not to mention, it gives such a gorgeous natural glow.

The Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation stick is a dream. It comes in a stick so you don’t have to use your hands to apply; I simply swipe it onto my face and blend with a damp beauty sponge. It is full coverage but it also feels like you have nothing on. There’s nothing worse than sticky, thick foundation. This is also a dewy and glowy product. See a pattern here?

Next, I go in with the Milk Makeup Highlighter in the shade Lit. I apply this generously on the high points of my cheeks and up around the outsides of my eyes. It gives you the most effortless, natural glow. Finally, I set my face with the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. If you’re into makeup at all, you’ve heard how good this stuff is.

Bronze and Highlight

I love looking like I just came home from vacation, so naturally, I have to use two bronzers. One just isn’t enough! First, I go in with the Charlotte Tilbury Bronze & Glow to contour and powder highlight. Then, I go in with my favorite bronzer of all time, the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in the shade Give Me Sun. This product does just that—gives you sun and makes you look like you came straight from the beach!

Eyes

All I do for eyes is use the Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo Metal Eyeshadow in the shade Bad to the Bronze. I use my finger to blend it all over my eyelid. It’s the easiest eyeshadow look ever and gives such a gorgeous all over bronze and shiny glow. How many times can I say bronze and glow? A lot, apparently.

Finally, I use the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara mascara and the NARS Brow Perfecter.

What is your favorite product to use that gives you a bronzed glow? Let me know in a comment below!

5 Tips Every Girl Needs Before Applying Self-Tanner

Self-tanning can be a tricky ordeal. I can specifically remember sporting bright orange hands at my senior year prom in high school. I thought getting a spray tan the night before was the way to go, meaning I wasted about $30 for a machine to spray me with orange pigment that would eventually come off in scaly patches. This is not to say spray tans are a bad thing, but there is a more affordable and reliable method for achieving that desired bronzed glow. Read on to learn the best way to achieve a realistic and glowy tan using self-tanner!

1—Exfoliate. Exfoliating is an essential step prior to applying self-tanner. In addition to shaving, try using a scrub that has a natural exfoliant to really help scrub off dry skin and grime. Additionally, try using a body brush to make your skin as smooth as possible. These steps will ensure non-streaky application and a long-lasting glow.

2—Acquire a blending lotion. A blending lotion is simply any plain, unscented lotion that will help ensure that your self-tanner of choice does not sink and settle into creases or dry skin. It is imperative that you apply a blending lotion into your elbows, knees, knuckles, and in between your fingers and toes. Allow the lotion to fully sink in before you apply your self-tanner.

3—Use self-tanning mitts. Self-tanning mitts help protect your hands from turning orange. If you do not want to buy mitts, use baking soda as a self-tanning hack to wash away the pigment. To utilize the baking soda hack, simply scrub your hands with a mix of baking soda and water. Once you are done, make sure to apply a thin layer of self-tanner to your hands and blend it into your wrists to help make your glow look natural.

4—Allow plenty of dry time. Self-tanner is definitely something you want to apply the night before the day you need it. It typically takes anywhere between 8-15 hours to fully develop and during that time, it typically does not smell incredible. Avoid wearing or sitting on any white fabrics during your dry time and shower off the smell before your event.

5—Moisturize. The absolute best way to help prolong your tan is to moisturize! I recommend slathering on a rich moisturizer or body oil while your skin is still wet from the shower. This will help your skin fully absorb the lotion. Applying a moisturizer regularly will help your skin stay healthy and help your tan fade naturally.

Following the tips listed above can help you achieve a fake self-tan that is free from embarrassment.

Leave a comment below telling me how you achieve the perfect fake glow!

Creative Ways to Make Your Summer Tan Pop

It’s Sunday night—just got back from a week-long beach vacation. You’re desperately trying to figure out ways to make your tan from the last week of laying out pop with Monday’s outfit. We’ve all been there. This summer, I’ve been focusing on finding new—and trendy—ways to make sure my hours in the sun pay off.

Obviously, but sometimes not-so-obviously, wear white! White and lighter colors will make your exposed skin look tanner in comparison. Plus, summer is part of the short time period during which it’s acceptable to wear all white, so take advantage.

I’m not sure why or how, but I’ve always noticed that wearing shinier silver jewelry, like rings, make your tan look more glowy. For real, try it out. This also follows this summer’s trend of stacking boho rings to create a cluttered jewelry look.

Light gray, white, and neon nail polishes help to make your skin look darker as well. Plus, they’re super fun and summery (and make me super happy).

Wear statement pieces to draw attention to areas that naturally tan more easily. Personally, my legs always tan much more quickly than the rest of my body, so wearing a statement shoe or cute pair of shorts helps to highlight that.

If all else fails, spring for a self-tanner. There’s no shame in giving your skin a break from the sun and opting for a moisturizing tanning lotion instead.

Any of these tricks have you glowing? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

Sun-Kissed Glow

Are you looking for that summertime glow, but not looking to commit to the sun? Sunless tanner may be the perfect solution for you! This method allows you to get that sunkissed glow you want without the harmful sun rays ruining it. Becoming a slave to sitting for hours in the sun or a tanning bed can not only be a waste of precious time but also can be detrimental to your health causing skin cancer. With sunless tanner products like the amazing Loving Tan, tanning just became fast, convenient, and so easy to achieve.

Loving Tan is the product I’ve been using for years now and is the only sunless tanner in my opinion that provides an all over, even color, that has a pleasant sunny smell and no orange undertones. This deluxe bronzing mousse, in the shade medium, brings me to my perfect shade right after I apply it.

Everyone has their own tanning routine and if you’re stuck on where to start there are tons of tutorials that can be found on Youtube. To start off this tanning process you first have to shower because the mousse works best on clean, shaven, and nicely exfoliated skin. To achieve this, I use exfoliating gloves that work perfectly to make my skin so silky smooth. After I hop out of the shower, I start to apply my bronzing mousse with a self-tanning mitt to protect my hands from the product. I usually tan at night and sleep with the product on my body so when I wake up I can just wash it off and go about my day. It’s that easy!

The tan usually lasts about four to five days until it gets spotty and then the rest of the tan can be exfoliated off and a fresh new tan can be applied. A big tip for self-tanning is having another set of foundation/concealer for when you tan just to make sure your body and face match.

Sunless tanners always get a bad reputation for making people look “orange” or giving them a “chemical smell,” but with how amazing Loving Tan is, all the rumors get tossed aside.

Will you be rocking a faux tan this summer instead? Let us know on social media by tagging our handle @Cfashionista.

Miami, the Perfect Summer Getaway

A trip to Miami? No questions asked the flight will be booked right away. The next thing you know I will be sitting on the beach. Miami is absolutely the perfect summer getaway that includes the beach, fun, and of course, how could I ever forget? Fashion!

Of course, the beach is always the main focal point of all my trips. Miami Beach is probably one of the most lively beaches I’ve been to. I love people watching while I enjoy the beautiful crystal clear ocean water, listening to the distant sound of Will Smith’s song “Miami” in the background.

Shopping in Miami

For people like me, shopping is a must everywhere, but in Miami, shopping is a necessity. The number of stores and boutiques are way too tempting; I can never keep myself away. Lincoln Road Mall is probably my favorite shopping area. There is a selection of stores on the strip with many cafes and restaurants. I always love going to the Urban Outfitters on Lincoln Road because the demographics of Miami Beach do not compare to anything at home. I purchased a sheer mesh bra which paired well with a sheer mesh top, a fuchsia belt, black shorts, and slip-on loafers.

Macaroons, Miami? Absolutely!

I love getting a little touch of Paris while getting macaroons at Ladurée on Lincoln Road. It is always a tad depressing when I take a bite of my macaroon and look up and don’t see the Eiffel Tower, but the palm trees make up for it. There is also a Ladurée stand at The Bal Harbour Shops located north of Miami Beach. The shops at Bal Harbour are more high-end luxury boutiques. I absolutely love wandering around the mall getting lost. I always find myself gazing at the beautiful bags right before my eyes. Bal Harbour has a few appetizing restaurants with outdoor seating. This is where you can watch all the people walking to and from their Rolls Royces, carrying hundreds of shopping bags.

Instagram-worthy

Whenever I need a change of scenery I head over to the former warehouse district which has transformed into the thriving Wynwood Walls. This is probably one of the most Instagram-worthy days of my trip. There are a plethora of beautiful murals to strut your favorite outfit and snap the perfect picture. Even if you’re not concerned about posting that perfect picture, the overall area is a very enjoyable to just walk around. Everywhere you turn there are murals that are indeed visually pleasing. The area is flooded with boutiques, restaurants, and bars (for those of the legal age, of course). Each weekend there an outdoor marketplace, where you will find music, food trucks, and tables set with the local artist’s creations. I love going because I never know what treasures I will find.

Miami is one of my favorite cities when it comes to a vacation. What’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for an Escape? Come Discover the Meaning of Pura Vida

Costa Rica—a nation situated in the heart of Central America. It’s land largely untouched by civilization, dwellings vibrantly colored, and its people the most welcoming you will ever meet. The locals have a saying that flows into every aspect of their lives: “Pura Vida,” meaning, “it’s all good.” No matter what happen,s everything will be alright because they appreciate life. Step off the plane and begin experiencing this mantra. Unwind on one of the many sprawling beaches, or do as the locals and experience all that is Costa Rica. Brush up on your Español because this article is taking us right into one of summer 2017’s hottest places to visit!

Our first stop on this Costa Rican adventure is the beach. To my surprise, the shores are pebbly and large volcanic rocks surface at low tides. However, don’t let this discourage you from visiting. The majority of the time you can walk little ways down the shore and reach soft, white sand perfect for laying out and getting your tan on. Looking for more action? Rent a car and visit a local surf town where they offer lessons.

For the love of coffee

It’s summer vacation and everyone wants some time to catch their breath and unwind from the stresses of college life. Soon enough we’ll all be thrown right back into the whirlwind of classes and assignments. Those late-night study sessions at the library have definitely encouraged all of our coffee drinking habits, so what better way to appreciate this life-sustaining drink than by making our second stop on a tour of a small coffee “factory.” Costa Rica is rich in coffee production due to its high altitudes in the mountains and acidic, volcanic soil. At this particular factory, and by factory I mean one room and one machine building, they taught of the roasting process. This cranberry-like fruit is transformed into the glorious black bean we associate coffee with. Being the coffee aficionada that I am, this was a considerable highlight of my trip.

Monkeys, iguanas, and sloths, oh my!

For our final destination, we head more inland into the rainforests. Over half of Costa Rica is covered by these lush, green forests. They are home to some of the most amazing wildlife you could ever expect to see. Not only will you see various varieties of monkeys, you can see sloths, brilliantly colored birds, and flowers that look like they should belong on an exotic tapestry. Hire a guide to take you hiking through the rainforests surrounding active volcanoes. As a result from the volcanoes, thermal springs and waterfalls are abundant. Jump in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

If you could step out of the chaos of our modern-day lives and be greeted by those who find joy in the simple pleasures of natural beauty, would you put down the phone and social media to join them and experience Pura Vida? Post your thoughts in the comments section below!

STYLE ADVICE: Throwing Shade for the Sun

Like a ray of sunshine, burst through the weather with some confidence. That’ll make even the shadiest of them all spot you in a clear and perfect view. It’s summertime, and while others may be dipping and diving into swimming pools and getting ready for a summer vacation, we can’t forget the most important thing: staying hip and stylish. As Fashionistas, we must know that simplicity is key. Yes, go for a bold color and even go the extra mile with patterns. Even if it’s hard to admit, this breakout of weather will convince you that less is definitely more.

With shutting the door to spring and allowing summer access to our killer wardrobes, the sun shouldn’t allow us to get out of hand either. Every individual has their go-to style, but everyone wants to look great too, right? The number one item for me is sunglasses that are in a nice color to bring out your face. Another element that is great is a hairdo of some spectacular style.

To accompany her bold sunglasses, this Fashionista opted for a fresh and clean look in a plain tan sweater and matching slacks. She is also not doing too much with her balanced tones in her color scheme, which allows you to take note of the colors of her wardrobe and accessories. Paired with a plain black handbag, Nike cortez sneakers are also worn to bring everything together. In the end, this Fashionista’s sunglasses were the focal point of this look.

STYLE ADVICE: Hello, Summer!

It is finally May! This means that it is the end of the semester and summer is here. Whether you are still finishing up school or heading off to the pool for some summer fun, I found a Fashionista on campus who has the perfect outfit for either setting. This look can be worn to go rock that last final or thrown over a swimsuit at the beach. Whatever your May plans are, this outfit can be a perfect fit.

With any outfit I wear, I like to be stylish but comfortable. If you are anything like me, you cannot concentrate if your outfit is even the littlest bit uncomfortable. Luckily, I found a Fashionista with the right idea! This Fashionista caught my eye with her outfit because of her acid wash, tie-dye tank top. This tank top adds a little edginess to showcase some of her personal style. Tank tops are great because you can throw them on and go. She paired her tank top with a trendy pair of distressed jean shorts. Unlike just some plain shorts, these have a nice little pocket detail that makes them pop! For footwear, this Fashionista slipped on some Birkenstocks. These sandals are perfect for any outfit and are great if you need to slip something on quick and head out the door. Since it is May and the start of summer vacations, the sun is out and shining.

This Fashionista grabbed a pair of black sunglasses to complement her outfit and keep her from squinting. With it being warmer weather, outfits in the summer tend to show more skin. Because of this, a lot of people try to achieve a sun kissed look. If you are hard to tan like me or impatient, a self-tanner is the way to go. There are many different great self-tanners out there, and any of them will give you a nice glow without the harsh effects from the sun. Fellow Fashionistas and Fashionistos, please do remember to always wear sunscreen this summer even if you do not think you will need it. The sun’s rays are stronger than we think so lather on the sunscreen!

If you have already finished school, have a great summer. If you are still making your way to that 8 a.m., good luck on all your finals and remember you are almost done.