Bet you didn’t know July 5 is National Bikini Day!

It’s true. All those painstaking sessions at the gym and the eating salads at lunch instead of delicious paninis is going to pay off because today, fair friends, is the day you show off your hard work. We, atCharming Media, do not suggest sporting your swimwear to the office but even if it’s just for a few minutes infront of your full-length mirror- give it a go! Toronto has been lousy, weather-wise, so beaches may be out of the question but celebrations must be had…sooner or later.

This being said, the best way to rock a bikini is obviously to remember your posture and feel good about yourself BUT we’ve got a few other things that will take you from simple-swimwear Sally to full-on bikini babe. We’re loving the retro bikinis that feature higher-cut bottoms, plus anything in red or white is in Charming Media colours! Imagine your favourite bather with the essentials below:

Essential #1: Your favourite one/two-piece.

Essential #2: If you’re out in the sun, make sure your lips are hydrated because they dry out easily. Mind your prized pout with EOS organic & natural lip-balms available at Jean Machine.

Essential #3: Any good fashionista knows she must keep her eyes shielded. These classic circle-shades are perfect for a retro theme or any other style you have in mind. They are also from Jean Machine and available in-store.

Essential #4: You’re going to need a cute pair of shoes (because you ALWAYS need a cute pair of shoes) and these Flurries Cassandra espadrilles are the perfect nautical pair.

Essential #5: A carry-all for things big and small. This MIN Collection carry-all is a neutral colour that can be worn throughout every season, to any place and at any time. It is ideal to hold your wrap, sunscreen, lip-balms and more.

Essential #6: Seeing as most people do not wear bikinis in the winter, chances are you’re going to be exposed to sun. We don’t condone you baking in UV rays but damage is inevitable if you’re going to be outdoors. Make sure you have a renewing gel to remove dead skin, like the Gratiae Renewing Peeling Gel.

Now that you have your essentials, are you ready for National Bikini Day?

Images: Bathing suit images courtesy of Pinterest & Polyvore.