With the summer in full swing here in the US, the bathing beauties has resurrected from their sweater cocoons and have begun frequenting local beaches and pool. Bikinis are present everywhere on every body type and every age group. These days, it is a rarity to see a one-piece or even a tankini. At the same time, the majority of women are unhappy about their body shape and size; and are very self conscious when moving around anywhere outside of the beach. As a result of this bodily insecurity, Spanx, and other such body slimming and shaping products, have become a HUGE market. This bikini proliferation in a Spanx culture confuses me.

What is it about the beach that has women swallowing their natural pride and desire for modesty in order to parade around in the current fashion trend? And how is it possible that these same women can squeeze themselves into a pair of Spanx hours later to go out to dinner with friends?

How did this disconnect come about? I think a large part of this is a product of women, and men, taking the latest fashion trends at face value without giving thought to how it gels with their innate value. Fashion becomes a end in itself instead of a way to further express who the person is and what that person values.

What do you think? How can bikinis exist in a Spanx culture?