Preparations for the beach season start at different times for different people. For some, they start at the gym several months in advance, while for others, they begin right there on the beach by hiding the extra pounds in the sand. However, as it turns out, there are much simpler ways to look stunning on the beach, no matter how summer-ready you feel. Here are the best hacks for looking incredible on the beach this season:

Find the right swimsuit

Every body shape looks best in a different style of swimsuit – whether you’ve got luscious curves or a straighter waistline, finding a suit that perfectly flatters your figure will undoubtedly boost your confidence on the beach. If you have a bigger bust, opt for a halter-style bikini top reinforced with cups or underwires that will give you proper support. For a smaller bust, try to find a top with ruffles, bows, or any other textural embellishments, bikinis that will give you the illusion of a fuller cleavage.. A tummy is best hidden with a tankini, especially an A-style one, while wider hips or a bigger bum always look great in a pair of boy shorts. If you’re worried about that bottom half of your body, a bra with decorative elements is also a good idea, as it brings more attention to your upper body. Remember that pastel colors suit paler skin tones best, while bright, vibrant colors look amazing on tanned or dark skin.

Don’t forget to accessorize

There’s no reason why you shouldn’t accessorize on the beach the same way you would with any other outfit. However, if you opt for jewelry, make sure it’s simplistic and minimal, as chunky pieces could look overdone and even leave awkward tan lines on your skin. When on the beach, focus on items that are not only fashionable, but practical as well, such as a beautiful beach bag, a chic wide-brimmed hat and a stylish pair of sandals that perfectly complement your beach outfit, while still protecting your feet from the heat and the rough terrain. Choose a fashionable cover-up that enhances your beach look, rather than simply hiding your body, and find the perfect pair of sunglasses that suit your face well and protect you from harmful sunrays.

Take care of your skin

Since summer is the only time of year when your skin is almost completely exposed, the only way to ensure you look amazing on the beach is to take proper care of it. Start by exfoliating your whole body with masks and body scrubs, to remove flakiness and dead skin cells, and then moisturize your body to give your skin a natural glow. Make sure to remove all unwanted body hair well in advance, and always use soothing body milks and creams afterwards, to avoid redness and razor burns. Of course, always apply sunscreen of at least 30 SPF all over your face and body, in order to prevent any potential sun damage.

Fake it ‘til you make it

At the end of the day, the best accessory you can wear wherever you go is your confidence. So, make sure you are always standing tall, with your shoulders back and your head held high. Even if you are a bit insecure about your looks, as long as you act confident, people will perceive you that way as well. Remember that if you act confident, you will look and eventually feel confident too.

After all, the beach should be a place where you go to relax, unwind and enjoy a good book, a refreshing cocktail, or some great company. So, allow yourself to have some fun and don’t forget to smile.