Out On The Wiley, Windy Moors; We'd Roll And Fall In Green

A few months ago, I found out that plus-size blogger Gabifresh was teaming up with Swimsuits for All for a second collaboration, and I can still recall my mood rising exponentially. Some of you may remember that last year I ended up purchasing two of the swimsuits Gabi Gregg designed and taking them with me on my trip to the Isle of Skye in Scotland. For the first time in my life, I had found swimwear that I felt comfortable in, that fit me perfectly and that wasn't at all boring. It was a major success.

So last time I visited family in the states, I made sure to pick up the latest gem by the shining duo: the Nala Underwire Midkini. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this suit. It was even bolder (in my opinion) than the swimwear from last year. The bottoms were nowhere near as high-rise, but the top had the flattering addition of underwire, which I find a necessity being that I'm above a C-cup. I perceived both pros and cons before making the purchase, but decided to go for it in the end because A: the pattern was just great (an amazing mix of '80s cheese and tribal chic), and B: to support one of the first bloggers I discovered who was my size and beautifully experimental and fun with her wardrobe. 

A few weeks ago, Patrick and I took a lovely walk up to Gaddings Dam. It's this hidden gem not that far from where we live (technically not that far anyway). I call it a hidden gem because it's literally just that. Though only a few miles away, getting there requires walking a few miles up some pretty steep hills. But the journey is so stunning that it's worth the trek. Doing the walk also reminded me that just because I am a larger woman does not mean I cannot do the things others smaller than me can do. I won't pretend it wasn't difficult at times, but I got there. The misconception that plus-size men and women are unfit and subsequently incapable of any form of exercise is one that bothers me deeply, and that I've written about several times in the past. But when you hear it often enough, you begin to believe it. Suffice it to say, this was an inspirational walk for several reasons.

And as for the swimsuit, I needn't have worried much. The addition of underwire to the top was perfect. I felt much for supported than I had in my suits last year, and because it's a stretch top as well, not having to worry about fastening the back alleviated the fear of losing my top mid-swim (this unfortunately happened more than once in last year's suits!). As for the bottoms, I do think I would have better suited something slightly more high-rise. But overall, I loved the pattern and the side cut-outs and consider this a win.

GabiFresh Nala Plus Size Underwire Midkini, $59, Swimsuits for All

*If you're after a similar style/cut, but in a different print, definitely check out this Rocky Horror Picture Show-esque lip print midkini: Swim Sexy Lips Underwire Midkini