in defense of the swim dress

1. Lands' End 2. Rey Swimwear 3. Lands' End 4. Walmart 5. Athleta

I admit it: I, Mary, writer of blog and mother of boys, traditionally wear a swim skirt and tankini top when required to be in a body of water--no bikini, string or otherwise.

And my swim ensemble would probably suit an octogenarian as well as it suits me.

I'm ok with that.

Nearly two years ago I read a post at MODG (warning! not for the faint of heart!) pleading with moms to ditch the "mom swimwear" and find something more flattering to wear to the pool. What she wrote has stuck with me, all this time, and not because I think she's wrong. I actually think she's totally right--it's just that my version of flattering, young and comfortable swimwear looks a lot different than hers.

Last summer we spent a weekend at a cabin resort on a local lake. I packed two swimsuits: one halter cropped halter top with a swim skirt (barring much of my middle), and one tankini top with a swim skirt. Which suit got more use? The one that covered more. I felt more comfortable in it.

I'm not trying to pass judgment on anyone else who can rock a two-piece. With all sincerity I say: If you feel confident in it, then high five! Well done! Splish splash!

Nor am I  indulging in self-body-shaming. I know that I'm a fairly fit, more-or-less trim woman. But I also know that I've carried two babies in three years, had one surgery on my mid-section, and live in a place so devoid of sun, you must frequent an establishment called "Sunny Bunz" to get a tan. No only do I have no desire to wear itsy bitsy, teenie weenie swimwear, I know it wouldn't make me feel confident.

Instead, I find empowering to wear something that flatters, something I'm comfortable and confident showing in a swim setting. While wearing that cropped halter top at the lake, mentioned above, I devoted equal mental energy to playing with my boys as I did trying to make sure my tummy was tucked, not pouching; that my chest was being covered adequately; and that I wasn't attracting the attention of any other male besides Sean within 200 feet.

Who needs that kind of grief? Of preoccupation and self-consciousness?

So this year, I'm seeking to upgrade to, say it with me..... THE SWIM DRESS.

Give me the not-falling-out-of-the-cups chest coverage, the cinched in waist, the dress falling at mid-thigh and some straps. I'll take it--and I'll feel (and look) great in it.

Come on out, ladies. The water's fine.

Linking up with the favoritest Moxie Wife.