Summer, what’s better than the season where the evenings are light, you can catch up with friends or laze the days away on a blissful beach somewhere. I have been lucky enough to travel quite a bit, from city breaks to white sandy shores, hopping from park to park in Florida and even to the jungle where I camped, did piranha fishing and flew over Angel Falls.
Travel to me is the most valuable currency and you should spend it well, creating memories with people you love or even people you’ve just met. Every trip is an experience, a way to see other cultures and embark on adventures, you know the type that you keep with you and spark a smile when sat at your desk. Whether you are far from shore, miles from home or even right here in the UK, embrace the moments and create as many as you can. I am now the type of person who works to live not lives to work, I spend hours trawling, planning and giving into my wanderlust by finding new places to visit and sights to take in and admire all with my partner in crime and life, Jonny.
Over the last 7 years we have been to places such as Rome, Mexico, Egypt and soon St Lucia, Madrid and Krakow just to name a few. Laughing over a glass of wine at a quaint restaurant down the back streets of Rome or taking mile long walks down the beach in Mexico watching the sunset, all these things are so much more valuable than money.
The one thing that did hold me back on holiday was the way I felt about myself, my confidence was easily knocked by not feeling 100% in my skin. As a teen I had no body hang-ups, no worries but as I got older so many things left me feeling uncomfortable in my own shell. Something I am very guilty of is this overwhelming thought in the forefront of my mind of not wanting to be in pictures, feeling self confident and ultimately left me feeling like I couldn’t enjoy that moment I was in fully, buy why? In the past few months I have made a huge concerted effort to have no holiday hang-ups and embrace my body and buy things that flatter my shape to make myself feel confident and ready to take on the world, Literally.
Packing my book, sun cream and sandals up in this M&S Striped Tote Bag* we headed off for a pre-holiday day at the beach, West Wittering to be precise to sit amongst the sand dunes and just watch the world go by together, a spot I hadn’t been to before but one we will defiantly head back to again. I put on my M&S Secret Slimming Lace-Up Swimsuit* which has amazing shape wear technology and really fits seamlessly. It has a gorgeous waffle texture and the lace up corset style front adds a little umph to this classic black number. Odd I know but swimsuits were never something I felt fantastic in but this one has wholeheartedly changed my mind. You can wear it of course just alone or pair it with some denim shorts which make it great for a day trip or excursion.
If you are looking for something lightweight and effortlessly chic while still comfortable this M&S Pure Cotten Shirred Midi Dress* is really flattering with an elasticated top you can wear it bandeau or with straps. The colour pairs perfectly with the beach vibe and looks very elegant when heading for a bite to eat or taking a sunset stroll. Things like this make a difference, when clothes fit and flatter you, you instantly feel like you can conquer anything and look good doing it, and you can do just that too!
COMPETITION
I have teamed up with M&S for this post and they are offering you a chance to win a holiday hamper of your own. To enter you need to share with me via my Twitter @LemonaidLies or Instagram @LemonaidLies using the hashtags #NoHolidayHangUps and #SpendItWell your favourite holiday moment (particularly where you feel most confident). You can win a swimwear and holiday shop hamper containing M&S holiday accessories and vouchers.
To enter you must be over 18 and live in the UK, the competition will run for 7 days from (live date to…) and be announce by myself on Twitter. To have a valid entry you must use the hashtags above to be eligible and ensure I am tagged in your entry.
I can’t wait to see your entries and add to that ever growing list of mine and feeling of wanderlust I have. I am sure you will aid me in booking another holiday of 2 for next year. Be sure to let me know your favourite pieces from the M&S Holiday Shop I would love to see what would make you feel beach-utiful!
You look amazing, I love the swimsuit & im going to check out the dress for my holidays. I have promised my partner & daughters that next year I will wear a bikini on holiday instead of a tankini, I ordered one & tried it but didn’t have the confidence to wear it so returned it, I’m going to try my best though & hopefully I’ll fulfill my promise next summer! Such a brilliant post, I really enjoyed it & you’ve spurred me on in my “wear a bikini” quest, thank you 🙂 xxxxx