Retro-Inspired One-Pieces

If you’re into the whole retro vibe, we’ve been noticing a ton of retro-inspired one-piece swimsuits with that cool, vintage vibe.  Most feature sweetheart necklines and either boyleg or skirted bottoms, both of which evoke that glamorous pinup girl look.  Check out the Deep Sea Swim Dress by Gottex Profile or the Goddess Boyleg and Harlow maillots from Seafolly.

One-Pieces with Plunging Necklines

But if you think the vintage look should’ve been left in the past, one-piece swimsuits with plunging necklines may be more up your alley.  While the overall style keeps you covered, the neckline ups its fierce factor.  We love the Sweety one-piece from Vitamin A Silver, The Ruched maillot from MAIO Swim and the Peach One-Piece from diNeila Brazil (ranging from most to least amount of plunge!)

Monokini One-Pieces

Finally, if you’re a bikini-wearer at heart but considering trying some one-piece swimsuits this season, these new monokinis may be just what you’re looking for.  Although monokinis vary in terms of front coverage (depending on how big the side cutouts are), there are a ton of styles that provide just the perfect amount of tummy coverage.  We’re loving the Free Love monokini from L*SPACE, the Scarlet Red suit from PilyQ and the Farrah swimsuit by Vitamin A.

This season, get ready to prove that more really is more with these fun and flirty fashion-forward one-piece swimsuits.

There is a difference between belly bloat and belly fat.  As explained in the last article, belly bloat is caused by intestinal gas that is directly related to the foods we eat, beverages we drink and how active – or inactive – our daily lifestyle is.  Yet, be careful not to fool yourself by thinking belly fat is belly bloat.  Belly fat is that constant excess around our middle parts that never seems to vanish no matter how hard we exercise.  One reason for belly fat… stress.  Stress increases the production of cortisol in our bodies which signals the “fight or flight” response.  While healthy to a certain degree in true stress filled situations, continued stress can interfere with the body’s natural processing of cortisol secretion.  This cortisol interference can have negative effects on our bodies in the way of decreased bone density, muscle tissue, high blood pressure, and excess abdominal fat.

Bust the stress, bust belly fat for good.  Here are my proven effective ways to reduce stress and bust belly fat:

Bust the belly fat & look red hot in your bikini!

*Exercise!  No matter which study you choose to site, no belly fat about it, even moderate exercise – just 30 minutes 3 times per week – is enough to help reduce belly fat.  That is, however, if the exercise is also consistent with consuming primarily fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins and keeping sugar consumption to a minimum.

*Fresh fruits and vegetables are key to a healthy bikini body.  Not only does consuming fresh fruits and vegetables help reduce belly fat AND belly bloat, these foods help prevent food cravings caused by stress.

*Eat lean proteins! Lean proteins are essential to energy and muscle repair.  Consuming foods like lean turkey, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, and fresh salmon help maintain blood sugar levels as well as give strength to tired muscles.  More muscle equals less fat including belly fat.

*More stress busters: listen to relaxing music, take a yoga class, get a massage, or doing something as simple as writing down your feelings in a daily or weekly journal.  Reducing stress is a natural belly fat buster!

Bust the stress, rock the bikini this summer!

*NOTE: belly fat and belly bloat can be the cause of food allergies, medications, or disease such as heart and liver disease.  If you are experiencing consistent, uncomfortable abdominal pain and belly bloat, please consult your physician and/or allergist.

Salmon & Tomatoes

Savory Salmon and Tomatoes
Serves 4

1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
2 large vine ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 medium zucchini squash, sliced into 1/2 –inch thick slices
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 (5 ounce) skinless salmon filets
4 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese

In a large saucepan over medium heat, add vegetable broth, onion, garlic, tomatoes, squash, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.  Cover pan with lid and bring to a boil for 3 minutes.

Using a wooden spoon, move vegetables to the sides of the pan.  Add the salmon and cover pan with lid.  Cook about 8 to 10 minutes or until salmon is opaque and firm throughout.  Divide salmon and vegetables among each of 4 serving plates.  Top each with 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese.

Nutrition:
Serving size: 1 filet with ½ cup vegetables
Calories:  325
Fat: 10.4g
Saturated fat: 2.7g
Carbohydrates: 10.3g
Protein: 40.0g
Fiber: 2.6g
Sodium: 400.7mg

Copyright Susan Irby The Bikini ChefTM 2013

Listed by FOXNews.com Top 10 Best Diet Books:  Substitute Yourself Skinny by Susan Irby The Bikini Chef

For more bikini friendly recipes, visit TheBikiniChef.com

ABOUT SUSAN IRBY:
Award-winning TV and radio host, Susan Irby The Bikini ChefTM, hosts Bikini LifestylesTM, winner Best Health and Fitness TV Program on national public television and AM 790 KABC radio.  An expert in health and nutrition, this 8-time best-selling author has written over 2,000 healthy, delicious recipes as found in her books.  Susan’s recent book  Substitute Yourself Skinny was just listed by FOXNews.com in The Top 10 Best Diet Books.

Selena Gomez in the Angola Ripple bikini by ViX Swimwear

Selena Gomez has been all over the news lately; not only has she been busy promoting her new single, “Come & Get It,” as well as her new album, she’s been dealing with all the rumors surrounding her on-again-off-again relationship with Justin Bieber.  Sounds like some rest, relaxation and girl time were in order for this pop princess!

Angola Ripple

When you’re in Miami and especially if you’re Selena Gomez, you need to dress to impress.  Selena chose wisely with the super sexy Angola Ripple bikini by ViX Swimwear… by far one of our favorite prints from the 2013 collection!  While she was walking around, she threw on a white caftan and chic black floppy hat–so chic!

The Biebs probably didn’t know what hit him when he saw how hot Selena Gomez looked this past weekend!  Get the Angola Ripple bikini by ViX Swimwear here!

Luna Fringe Tops
If you’re looking for an affordable fashion-forward fringe top, the Luna Top is a great option.  The fringe embellished triangle top slides to adjust and has removable padding for extra shaping.  Get it in black, turquoise, white or limoncello!

Luna Fringe Tops

Little Black Bikinis
But for all you chic and sophisticated gals, you can never go wrong with a little black bikini… and as usual, Vitamin A Silver has a ton of styles to choose from!  Whether you’re into halter tops, triangle tops, cheeky Brazilian-cut bottoms, you name it, feel free to mix, match and come up with a look all your own.

Little Black BIkinis

Cover-Ups
Although the brand features gorgeous designer swimwear, they’re also becoming known for simple yet chic cover-ups.  Think tunics, maxi dresses and short shorts in lightweight fabrics like rayon, modal and cotton.  Whether you wear ‘em to the beach or beach bar, these cover-ups are simply fab.

Cover-Ups by Vitamin A Silver 2013

You don’t have to spend a fortune for designer swimwear, and the new styles from Vitamin A Silver 2013 will keep you looking hot and within your budget.

Reduce belly bloating & rock that bikini!

Here are some tips to reduce belly bloat and rock your bikini:

1) Eat and drink your water.  Staying hydrated is especially important in keeping belly bloat to a minimum.  Make sure you are drinking water consistently throughout the day and eat your water, too!  Iceberg lettuce has little nutritional value but it is nearly 95% water.  Add iceberg to crisp fresh salads with other dark leafy greens of fresh spinach or fresh, finely chopped kale.  Add diced fresh tomatoes for additional water, flavor, and color.  Avoid bottled salad dressings which are commonly filled with sugar, excess salt, and preservatives… all belly bloat disasters.  Choose, instead, a simple homemade dressing such as a Lemon Vinaigrette (recipe below).

2)  Be careful of the bean. While beans are healthy and have a high concentration of protein and fiber, they contain natural sugar that can cause gas.  Getting ready to put on your bikini? Opt for fresh, not canned beans, and consume in small portions to aid digestion.

3) Lay off the sugar.  Heading to the pool… avoid drinking carbonated drinks, both regular and diet, which can cause belly bloat and skip baked goods high in sugar like cookies, cupcakes, and non-baked treats such as ice cream.  Instead, super charge your body and reduce belly bloat with a homemade acai icee which is filled with antioxidants and water.  To make, simply blend unsweetened acai juice with crushed ice.

4) Fresh is best.  Packaged foods are commonly high in sodium, fat, and calories.  Even low calorie packaged foods usually contain a high amount of sodium.  Strive to consume no more than 500 milligrams of sodium per meal and no more than a total of 1,500-2,300 milligrams per day. When in doubt about sodium content on pre-packaged lunch and dinner foods and snacks, read the label or better yet, opt for fresh lean baked or grilled chicken, cruciferous fresh vegetables like bok choy, spinach, and fresh mixed greens, snack on belly bloat friendly celery, and choose water over soda (even diet soda).

5) Exercise.  Consistent, moderate exercise improves digestion which can help reduce belly bloat.  And working up a good sweat helps remove toxins from the body which will also translate to a flatter, less bloated belly.

*Note:  Belly bloat can be the cause of food allergies, medications, or disease such as heart and liver disease.  If you are experiencing consistent, uncomfortable abdominal pain and belly bloat, please consult your physician and/or allergist.

Fresh spring greens with lean chicken & black cod

Grilled Chicken with Mixed Greens and Lemon Vinaigrette
Serves 2

2 4-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
fine zest of 1 lemon
2 cups mixed greens
1 cup chopped fresh iceberg lettuce
1 large roma tomato, seeded and roughly chopped
1 celery stalk, diced at 1/4″ to 1/2″ slices

Preheat grill to medium high heat.  Season chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.  Place on heated grill and cook about 5 to 6 minutes on one side.  Turn and cook other side for 5 to 6 minutes or until chicken is just cooked through.  Remove from grill and set aside.

In large mixing bowl, combine oil, vinegar, lemon, sea salt, and remaining black pepper.  Whisk until well combined.

Toss in mixed greens, iceberg, tomatoes, and celery.  Toss well to coat with vinaigrette.  To serve, place salad on each of two serving plates and top with 1 4-ounce grilled chicken breast.

This recipe is perfect for leftover grilled chicken, turkey, and fish.  For the ideal bikini flattering result, let the grill flavor the chicken and say “no” to added sauces, especially bottled or packaged ones which can be laden with sugar, salt, and preservatives.

Time Saving Tip: Double or even triple the vinaigrette portion of this recipe and store in the refrigerator for up to three weeks for delicious salads every day of the week!

Nutrition:
Serving size: 1 ½ cups lettuce with 1 chicken breast
Calories:  284.2
Fat: 16.7g
Saturated fat: 2.7g
Carbohydrates: 5.8g
Protein: 27.5g
Fiber: 2.2g
Sodium: 371.7mg

Copyright Susan Irby The Bikini ChefTM 2013

Listed by FOXNews.com Top 10 Best Diet Books:  Substitute Yourself Skinny by Susan Irby The Bikini Chef

For more bikini friendly recipes, visit TheBikiniChef.com

ABOUT SUSAN IRBY:
Award-winning TV and radio host, Susan Irby The Bikini ChefTM, hosts Bikini LifestylesTM, winner Best Health and Fitness TV Program on national public television and AM 790 KABC radio.  An expert in health and nutrition, this 8-time best-selling author has written over 2,000 healthy, delicious recipes as found in her books.  Susan’s recent book  Substitute Yourself Skinny was just listed by FOXNews.com in The Top 10 Best Diet Books.

Photo Courtesy of CaboVillas

Photo Courtesy of CaboVillas

Photo Courtesy of CaboVillas

Photo Courtesy of CaboVillas

Of course, we’re planning on packing tons of new designer bikini and cover-ups styles, along with all the accessories a girl could ever ask for.  Here’s what’s on our Cabo-inspired list so far:
1) Scarlet Red monokini – PilyQ Swimwear
2) Citrus Falls bikini – Maaji
3) Hiss Kiss flip-flops – Tkees
4) Seville skirt – The Collection by L*SPACE
5) City Tribe bikini – L*SPACE
6) Kalahari poncho – Vitamin A
7) Patchuli Wedges – Melissa Shoes
Good Girl bikini – Beach Bunny
9) Xavier one-piece – MIKOH Swimwear
10) Refraction Bag – Melissa Shoes

Planning an upcoming beach getaway?  What’s on your “what to pack” list?

Deep Sea Swim Dress (left) & Scarlet One-Piece (right)

For those who have been searching for a chic retro-inspired swimsuit, the Deep Sea Swim Dress will definitely help you nail the look!  The solid blue hue and white feminine detailing just scream old Hollywood glam.  We’re also loving the red-hot Scarlet one-piece from Gottex Profile.  The front features figure-flattering ruching and ruffle detailing, perfect for hiding a not-so-toned tummy.

Daisy Dreams (left) & Spring Awakening (right)

But if you prefer tankinis over one-pieces, you’re in luck!  Over the years, Gottex Profile Swimwear has really become known for their tankini swimsuits and they always come out with fun new styles each and every season.  The Daisy Dreams tankini features a black and white printed top paired with a black high-waist bottom, which work together to create a slimming effect.  But for something bolder and more fashion-forward, check out the new Spring Awakening tankini.  The trapeze-style tankini top is paired with a matching bottom and is perfect for an easy breezy day at the beach!

With every new collection, Gottex Profile Swimwear never ceases to impress and their 2013 Summer Collection is no exception!

"Duos" by Tkees - Afterglow & Bare White

One of our favorite new styles from Tkees Flip-Flops is the “Duos.“  These feature a leather footbed accented with double straps, each in a different hue.  For example, the Afterglow flip-flops have a black patent leather footbed and gold and rose gold straps.  Ultra-chic and ultra-glam.

"Blends" by Tkees - Pink Drizzle & Blue Breeze

But if you’re looking to add some pep to your step with some color, the “Blends” may be more up your alley.  We have two colorways this season–Pink Drizzle and Blue Breeze.  Both are patent leather and feature a trendy ombre design.  These Tkees Flip-Flops will definitely add a fun pop of color to your spring/summer look!

"Face Paints" by Tkees - Slither & Hiss Kiss

Finally, I saved the best for last!  This last pick is another new style from Tkees Flip-Flops 2013… and it’s seriously fierce!  The “Face Paints” styles always feature animal prints in some way or another (remember last year’s Slither sandals with the python printed strap!?)  The new Hiss Kiss flip-flops feature a textured python printed footbed in a neutral palette, complemented by a dark brown strap.  A fiercely fun new take on the “neutral” flip-flop!

Which style from Tkees Flip-Flops 2013 do you like best?

Nicole Richie rockin' a LBB in St. Barts

Nicole Richie left hubby Joel Madden and their two kids at home, so she was able to take full advantage of the beautiful beaches of St. Barts.  Over the years, Nicole Richie has really become a style icon, both on and off the beach.   Although she was spotted in a couple of cute swimsuit ensembles, we absolutely loved her little black bikini look.  The black triangle top and matching bottom flattered her petite figure perfectly.  She looked flawless and fab, but we wouldn’t expect anything less from a fashion designer/style icon!

(From left to right): "Uluwatu" by MIKOH, "Stella" by L*SPACE & "Cosmo" by Vitamin A

Want to steal the Nicole Richie look?  Try a classic little black bikini like Uluwatu by MIKOH Swimwear, the Stella LBB by L*SPACE or the Cosmo bikini by Vitamin A!  Who’s your favorite style icon?

Dolly Pistachio (left) & City Tribe Mixer (right) - L Space Swimwear 2013

If you’ve taken a liking to fringe this season (I mean, who hasn’t!?) then the new minty-hued pistachio styles from L*SPACE Swimwear are a must.  Go solid on solid or mix it up with one of their complementing printed separates–either way, you can’t go wrong with L*SPACE’s fab new mint swimwear styles.

We Found Love Blue (left) & Breezy Beach (right)

But if you’re looking for something a little bit more unique, Beach Bunny and Maaji also have some fresh new styles in cool minty palettes.  Right now, we’re crushing hard on the We Found Love Blue bikini from Beach Bunny.  It features nautical-inspired stripes in a white, mint and hot pink colorway.  Also we’re loving the Breezy Beach bikini from Maaji.  This mint swimwear style features a minty-hued print contrasted by cream, and the top’s ruffle detail makes the suit both ultra-feminine and ultra-glam.

Pastels are taking over this season and it doesn’t get any fresher than mint swimwear.  Which style are you loving?