by Fiona Branton

Created on: May 08, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

Be Comfortable With Your Body Image This Summer

Summer is here, and it's suddenly much harder to hide your body behind baggy sweaters and extra layers of clothes. Many women cringe at the thought of exposing their less-than-perfect bodies in shorts, tank-tops, or bathing suits. But whether you are over- or underweight, have flabby arms or varicose veins, or simply don't look like Beyonce, you don't have to shy away from enjoying stylish and comfortable summer fashions.

While being healthy including maintaining a healthy weight is important, it's also essential that you respect who you are and learn to love yourself, limitations and all. There is no single standard of beauty or perfection nor should there be. Every woman is different, and everyone has plenty of reasons to be happy with the way she is. Take a few minutes to discover and appreciate your own gifts.

If you think about it for a few minutes, you'll realize that no one expects you to be Hollywood perfect. You don't expect it of your friends and family members, do you? Take a look at the other women in your life. Would you like any of them better if they were a size 0 or had better hair? Of course not. In fact, you might even be less comfortable around them if they were perfect.

Once you realize that perfection is not the answer, how do you convince yourself that "good enough" is in fact more than good enough? First, take a long look in the mirror and list all the good things about your body and your personality. Even if you can come up with only a handful of physical attributes you like, you're sure to have lots of positive personality traits, which, as you undoubtedly know, are really what make you a beautiful person. Review your list every day to remind yourself that you truly are fabulous.

Second, develop a sense of style that works for you and makes you feel beautiful. Whether you are a jeans-and-t-shirt kind of girl or prefer floaty sundresses, there are plenty of fashion tricks that will disguise your flaws or enhance your attributes. For instance, a correctly fitted bra will enhance a flat bustline or minimize a large one; a monochromatic color scheme will make a short and stocky person appear longer and leaner; an empire style dress or a smock-type top can hide a tummy bulge; and Bermuda shorts or Capri pants are perfect for those too-big thighs or varicose veins.

Third, whatever you wear, make sure it fits well. There's nothing more likely to call attention to your perceived "flaws" than too-tight or loose-fitting clothes. And you'll be much more comfortable, too.

Finally, go outside and enjoy yourself. If you focus on having fun and celebrating your good qualities instead of dwelling on your flaws, you'll discover that perfection isn't necessary, or even desirable.

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