When I was 12, I woke up with boobs. Big boobs. To my horror, it seemed that overnight, my pretty much non-existent chest had manifested into what I considered circus size.
It was the beginning of a very weird time in my life, starting with being a seventh-grader, a pre-teen, (the term tween did not yet exist), and navigating this age in the mid-eighties. You can imagine the outfits, the hair, the Madonna emulation, and now, the boobs.
Boys, men even, started to stare at me, and they were not looking me in the eyes. I was horrified. I became so self-conscious, I tried to tape them down with duct tape. Bad idea. Very bad idea. This newfound part of my body became a constant source of angst throughout my teenage years as well. At a mere 5’2″, I remember thinking, “Here’s my chest and the rest is coming!”
By the time I was 22, even 32, I grew to appreciate “the girls.” I know, youth played a part in that, but I was also finally starting to appreciate my body in general, something I never, ever did as a teen, and something I still struggle with today.
The only girls I ever want or need to reign in, are the ones on my body. After having two children and turning 47, there are a few different things to contend with, no matter how many nice things I say to myself in the mirror.
And since vacation is my favorite word in the universe, bathing suits are a big part of my D/DD cup life. Combine that, age, and two small children to run around with, suffice to say, I need support. Here’s a hit list of my favorite places to buy bathing suits that are pretty and keep the girls at bay:
Maaji Gorgeous, reversible colors and prints that come in D/DD cup. I just bought a 2 piece and I love it.
Everything But Water Maxswim Everything here is beautiful and they put together styles, no matter your size. Their Maxswim line is not as abundant in choice, but the suits are still pretty and well suited for larger breasts.
ASOS I was ecstatic to discover they have over 400 styles for DD -G cups – and so affordable. You can even mix and match. Who knew??
Monday Swimwear – This is a new line I tried and I love it. It lets you feel sexy while keeping you covered. Founders Natasha Oakley and Devin Brugman are the epitomai of sexy – I found them on Instagram and had to try their line. The Costa Rica Crinkle Two-piece in Periwinkle fits like a glove.
JCrew and Summersalt – These brands never disappoint. My Summersalt one-piece has lasted a long time and holds more than my girls in place. JCrew has changed a bit for me over the years, but I can still count on them for a classic, well-fitting style.
