Hitting the beach with our #Curve columnist Callie

'Say goodbye to boiling summers covered in black, because there is no such thing as a summer body! Here's how you can get into the right headspace.'

When I was younger the idea of getting in swimwear was my own personal vision of hell. Years went by where I spent days in scalding summers covering up in leggings or cardigans to hide away my body. When I did brave swimwear I would never dream of wearing a bikini. My go-to swimwear pieces were horrendously designed tankinis or frumpy swimsuits which covered as much of my bare skin as possible.

These days I am in a completely different head space: no more punishment, no hot summers wearing all black. Because I have secret for you: there is no such thing as a summer body! Yep, that’s right ladies, each and every one of us has a body just ready for the beach. We are all entitled to enjoy summer and bask in the sunshine no matter what our shape or size because the truth is perfection is a myth and you need to know that you are just great as you are.

Confidence is something that is built over time and yes it may seem daunting to put yourself out there but trust me, the liberation of enjoying summer is truly special. Not to mention, now more than ever before plus size women actually have fashionable swimwear options to choose from which suit all body shapes. So, put on that swimsuit, rock that bikini, and bask in the glorious sunshine this summer. If I’ve not convinced you yet, then check out myself and these gorgeous plus size women rocking their summer bodies:

Think you can’t wear prints? Chanel proves you damn well can in her gorgeous paisley print two piece.

Want to feel Hollywood glam this summer then hello retro polka dot one piece, perfectly modelled by Georgina.

Most importantly don’t be afraid to make a statement and standout, then relax your holiday away just like me.

For more inspiration here are some of my favourite Instagrams: A bandeau one piece works for every figure check out Grace in her gorgeous floral one piece Not feeling comfortable enough to rock the full bikini look why not invest in a gorgeous lace cover up like Jennifer. Get colourful with a long line printed bikini top like Danielle Conscious of your tummy? Then opt for a high waist bikini like Kellie. They are a perfect flattering way to look gorgeous at the beach.