I just got back from a tropical vacation in Costa Rica, and if you follow me on Instagram, you’ve already got a sneak peek at the swimsuits and outfits I wore. Trust me, my vacation was much needed as I have been working my butt off non stop since October. It’s been a crazy couple of months. Taking a week off from life is hard for me because I am always so plugged in to everything I am doing, and I have so many responsibilities to take care of. So, while vacation was nice, I am so glad to be back home and on my regular schedule. But dressing for temperatures in the ’90s got me super excited for spring and summer. So I put together a little list of everything I wore in Costa Rica, from swimsuits to full-on looks! Also: if you are booking a trip to Costa Rica anytime soon, I included my recommendations at the end of this post!
Bronzed Babe
I have sooooo many swimsuits, but when I booked this trip, I knew I had to find something special that would pull me out of the depths of winter and propel me into feeling like a glowy, summer goddess. I found this plus size Aerie Shine Bikini set (featuring the Long-Line Triangle Bikini Top and Banded Bikini Bottoms) and I knew it was perfect for Costa Rica. Sure enough, the bikini didn’t disappoint. I wore it to the beach, the pool, and everything in between. I even got the matching Bandeau Bikini Top for some versatility. I will say that both of the tops fit me very well. I usually wear a 42C and a 2X in tops, and I ordered the XXL in both of these tops. The bottoms also fit me very well, and they were more of a cheeky fit, which I love. However, they weren’t the best while I was wave surfing or trying to basket toss my friends—we watched Netflix’s Cheer documentary during the flight there so we were feeling inspired….don’t judge. The bikini bottoms would always roll down below my lower tummy if I was doing any kind of physical activity. It’s not ideal, but I would rather wear lower-rise bikini bottoms than high-waisted ones. Just not my style! All-in-all, I felt beautiful in this set!
Golden Girl
I also stumbled upon this Aerie Shine Strappy Back One Piece swimsuit when I found my bronze bikini. I have always dreamt of having a plus size metallic bikini or one piece, so I knew it was my time to shine–literally. I loved this one piece, but I will say that it’s not the most *flattering* suit if that is a characteristic you want your suit to have. For me, personally, I never aim for “flattering.” Instead, I aim to dress in things that make me feel good and confident, which isn’t always flattering. This swimsuit, because of the skin tight material and light, shiny color, shows every bump, line, and curve. I rocked it confidently to the pool, and loved every second of it. It’s truly a stunner! I ordered a XXL, which was a perfect fit for me! The suit was very stretchy!
Highlighter at Sea
While the shiny swimsuits were super sexy, I knew I needed at least one extremely functional, practical swimsuit for any adventures. When I found out we were going on a boat excursion and snorkeling, I knew this lace up swimsuit from Torrid was going to be the perfect suit for the occasion. This plus size swimsuit was made for curves, and you could tell. The way it contoured my curves and provided support was incredible. I felt secure and sexy in it all day throughout all of my adventures. I am wearing a size 2, which is my usual size, and the fit was spot on! OMG this swimsuit looks so good in photos, too. CHECK IT OUT
Double Duty Cover Up
I don’t think the Metallic Bianca Top and Pants from Premme was designed to be a swimsuit cover up, but seeing as it is see through, it was the perfect look to throw on over a swimsuit. Before I dive in, let’s pour one out for Premme. The clothing brand—started by Nicolette Mason and Gabi Gregg—is severely missed. But I am so so happy I snagged this set, and I will hold onto it forever. Personally, I have a feeling that we haven’t seen the last of Premme, and I am holding out for the day when they come back. But anyways, any chance I get to wear this outfit, I will. It’s extra AF, and everyone looks at me when I sport it and I love every second of it. I feel like a true plus size princess in Premme. I am wearing a size 2 in this set, and it fits perfectly!
Go With the Flow
Don’t let the photos fool you, I spent most of my time fresh-faced with beach hair. But the second I got to throw on some tinted moisturizer and a cute outfit, I turned to this Torrid Black Challis Off Shoulder & Ruffle Skirt Set. The skirt was so beautiful as it moved with my body and the breeze brought it to life. I am tucking this outfit away for safe keeping until the summer rolls around. Seriously, this look was my favorite of the whole trip! I am wearing the size 2, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly!
In case you’re wondering/booking a trip to Costa Rica, this is what I did:
– I spent A LOT of time on the beach (Playa Ocotal, Flamingo, and Coco)
– We stayed in Guanacaste, Costa Rica (the west side, which is known for it’s desert-tropical climate)
– We rented an Airbnb in Azul Paraiso, which is at the top of a huge hill in Playa Ocotal. It was so nice!
– I highly recommend Cost Rica Sailing with Panache Sailing. Their snorkeling excursion was so fun.
– We had an adventure packed day hiking up the Rincón de la Vieja volcano, as well as white water tubing and horse back riding.
Here are some fun photos from my trip! All of these photos below were taken by my friend Ben Rifken. He is an insanely talented photographer and videographer in Lisbon, Portugal. If you ever need an artist in that area, he’s your guy!
