

The Ready To Wear Swimsuit Trend You’ll See Everywhere This Summer
Coming in hot this summer are multifunctional swimsuits that can easily transition into a ready-to-wear look when out and about during this warm weather season. Whether you're island hopping or mentally on vacation, there's a new trend this summer that gives more life to your favorite swimwear pieces. I have the most fun mixing items up within my wardrobe. Experimenting with clothes you already own, not only helps your bank account but refreshes styles you may have forgotten about or feel uninspired to wear.
This summer's dress code is exposed skin; however, here are some classy ways to refresh new and/or old swimsuit styles worn other than by the pool. Get inspired to try old pieces in ways you've never worn before with these luxe swim looks.
Everyday Resort
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
With so many outdoor events and passport stamps to catch up on, now that lockdown has been lifted, nothing says chic like a fiery orange wrap around ruched skirt. This vacation-ready look is made from a luxe ruched fabric that is ultra-flattering, complimenting your natural shape while serving resort luxe no matter your location. Paired with a modern cut out bodysuit, this is a stylish addition to a quintessential summer piece.
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Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
On the Outside
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
An all-time lover of a cropped look, this criss cross halter swim top paired with my straight leg 90's jeans and oversized button-down is perfect for casual daytime festivities. Whether music festivals or Sunday Farmers Markets, easily swap the thong mini heel for flat sandal for all-day comfort. I love this fun summer look because it can easily transition from day to night.
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Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
In with the Old
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
A traditional scoop neck is a common choice when shopping for classic swimsuits. As my swim collection grows, I'm finding new takes on old styles I once thought to have outgrown by finding creative ways to extend their life in my wardrobe. I choose this deep tangerine orange bikini top hiding in the back of my closet as a substitute to a traditional bralette layered underneath a lightweight summer blazer.
Bought several years ago, I revived this basic swim piece by putting it to work in a much more fashionable way. Adding a complimentary multi-colored scarf blended with the perfect cool hues for summer, I created a tied skirt for another resort chic outfit along with my favorite summer accessories to match.
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Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
To get your fashion fix and to stay up to date with the latest trends, check out the xoNecole Style section here.
Featured image by Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
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Black women are not a monolith. We all are deserving of healing and wholeness despite what we've been through, how much money we have in the bank, or what we look like. Most importantly, we are enough—even when we are not working, earning, or serving.
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September is National Self-Care Awareness Month, so for my girlies who have been putting off self-care, here’s your opportunity to start. Self-care means exactly what it says: taking care of self. Why is it important? Well, many of us have busy lives that may include careers, family, and activities that consume us daily. Taking some time for self regularly can help prevent depression, stress, anxiety, and burnout.
In February 2023, Future Forum polled 10,243 people in six countries, including the U.S., and 40% said they are experiencing burnout, and 46% of that number are women. According to CNBC, many factors contributing to burnout include companies demanding employees return to the office, hiring freezes, and layoffs.
Psychologist Debbie Sorensen explained to CNBC why women and millennials are experiencing burnout in higher numbers. “We haven’t had time to recover from the trauma of what we’ve been through the last few years,” she said. “Women and young people, in particular, are putting an immense amount of pressure on themselves to keep going, keep working, no matter the cost.”
As women, particularly Black women, we tend to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders. Other people's problems become our problems, and then we are expected to show up to work and show up for our family and friends with a smile on our faces. Whew, chile! What if we are having a bad day? How are we supposed to cope if we have to be everything to everyone? Well, here’s your sign to make time for yourself, especially on the days when you are feeling down.
Below is a list of self-care ideas for when you are having a bad day.
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Spend time in nature
Sometimes something as simple as surrounding yourself with trees, grass, and/ or water can improve your mood exponentially. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) research shows that spending time in nature can improve attention, lower stress, and reduce the risk of psychiatric disorders.
Got to a Spa
There’s nothing like going to a spa. You can relax in a sauna, get a massage, and just be. According to research, massages help release serotonin and dopamine, which are often referred to as “feel good” hormones, that will instantly perk you up and have you going about your day with a smile on your face.
Get Artsy
When was the last time you did arts and crafts? Drawing a picture, painting, or even coloring can help you discover your inner child, thus boosting your mood. Purchase an adult coloring book, or go to a paint-and-sip class by yourself, or you can make it a group activity and bring your besties.
Look your best
The old saying, “When you look good, you feel good,” didn’t just come out of thin air. There’s some truth to it. The Kentucky Counseling Center shared a link between self-care and feeling good. “Self-care regimens are extremely important not just to stabilize your day but to make you feel great. Simple things like getting a facial, taking care of your hair done, or exercising can make you confident because when you look good, you also feel good,” according to its website.
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Breathwork
There’s a reason why it is suggested that you breathe when you begin feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. Breathing brings oxygen back into your body, and WebMD reports that it can decrease the fight or flight response that happens when you are stressed.
Spend time with babies
I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me smile quicker than a baby, especially a smiling baby. If you’re the same way, then spending time with a baby or babies may help put you in a better mood, too.
Do nothing
Last but certainly not least, do nothing. There’s nothing like laying in your bed and not being forced to do anything. Stay in this moment and use this time to relax and replenish your energy.
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Feature image by Catherine Falls Commercial/ Getty Images