Wearing your first bikini, whether at 20 or 30, is always a nerve-racking affair. You can’t help but worry about every minute detail. Are there any unsightly bits peeking out? Are the stretch marks too obvious? And let’s not forget the dreaded camel toe! If you’re not confident in your bikini, it’s definitely going to show. Think Kristen Stewart when she first walked the red carpet. Wearing a bikini (or anything at all, really) requires a certain level of confidence. Here are a few tips on how you can boost yours.

1. Accept your natural body shape.

If you’re a voluptuous babe, don’t aspire to be waif-thin like Keira Knightley and Miranda Kerr. Instead, choose role models who are closer to your shape such as Kate Upton and Jennifer Lawrence. The sooner you accept (and love) yourself, the more confident you’ll be out on the beach.

2. Practice wearing your swimsuit.

Just as you practice walking in high heels, so should you test drive a new bikini. This way, you know exactly how it looks and feels on you. Discomfort is normal, especially if it’s your first time to wear anything skimpy, but it will dissipate in time. The more often you put your gorgeous suit on, the more comfortable you’ll be in it.

3. Tell yourself you rock your bikini every day.

Positive mantras or affirmations are more effective than most people realize. Repeatedly telling yourself you look good will help you develop a more positive mindset about your body. At the end of the day, what will really give you that confidence boost is not what others think of you, but what you think of yourself.

(Photo of bikini courtesy of Zara)