This post is sponsored by Target, one of my very favorite retailers. Thank you for supporting the brands that partner with Pretty & Fun – authenticity is a top priority and all opinions are 100% honest and my own.

I realized recently that the term “beach body” is actually a pretty dumb term. If you have a body, and you’re at the beach, then you have a beach body. Period. For as long as I can remember I’ve had that sense of dread creep in toward the end of winter… bathing suit season was approaching. Cue being more conscious of what I’m eating and a few extra trips to the gym and while I’m all about being healthy and active, it was for completely the wrong reasons.

So this summer, instead of stressing out about my “beach body”, I’m focusing on finding swimsuits that are flattering for my body and embracing “swimsuit season” instead of dreading it. My secret weapon? Target’s crazy amazing swimsuit selection and the insane variety of options that are available this year.

// Photos by Tory Putnam

When it comes to picking my swimsuits for this season, I’m focusing on a few key things: colors that work well with my fair complexion (I’m done complaining about being pale, a summer tan is nice and all but let’s face it, it’s not going to happen anytime soon living in SF), flattering for my figure (there’s no thigh gap happening here and as much as I love bandeau tops, they don’t look great if your boobs aren’t on the small side) and a swimsuit that I can confidently move around in without risk of a wardrobe malfunction (gone are the days where I owned designated “laying out only” bikinis).

I’m also embracing creative cover-up options to take my swimsuits from the beach to whatever else is happening that day. A few of my favorite options to layer over my bathing suits:

If it’s a casual day, I’ll throw on a comfortable maxi skirt and a tank top over a swimsuit for a boho look that’s perfect for running errands or heading to brunch after soaking up the sun. This is one of my favorite combinations because it’s the easiest way to create a swimsuit “cover up” without shopping for anything that’s swim-specific – it’s just a remix of items already in your closet! Brilliant.

I’m all about the flowy silhouette of a caftan and this black and white patterned number makes up for not being form fitting with its plunging neckline. The fabric is also just slightly sheer making it a doable option for a summer date night. Anything goes at the beach, right?

Finally let’s not forget about the ultimate summertime staple, the little white dress. The pom pom details on this shift dress are adorable and it works well while thrown over a swimsuit and paired with wedges. Last minute meeting or brunch plans? No problem!

What do you look for when shopping for swimsuits and cover-ups? Do you also have a few key things you look for in a swimsuit that works best for your body?

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Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Target via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Target.