Tips and tricks to get pool party ready

You, lounging around the pool with smooth, bronze skin, sipping a drink in a bathing suit that fits you perfectly and accentuates your long, lean legs. The ultimate summer scene may look effortless. But unless you’re are a genetically blessed supermodel (or even if you are) getting to the point where you feel anxiety-free about chilling in a bathing suit takes work. It doesn’t just happen-- for anybody! In this episode, we’ve got everything you need, from targeted fitness routines to skin-smoothing scrubs so your pool/beach/backyard BBQ time is as relaxing as it looks.

When I see people radiating confidence while wearing the smallest bikini possible, instead of being insanely jealous, I try to think about the fact that they’ve put in the right amount of prep work, which is something we can all do. Here’s a guide to getting our pool-party selves ready for the season.

Work your legs, butt and core

Celebrity trainer Bernardo Coppola, the guy who helped Mariah Carey get her body back post-baby, recommends three specific moves. First, a lunge with glute extension. Hold light weights in both hands, balance one shin on a medicine ball behind you and squat. Your hamstrings and glutes should light up. Follow that up with sets of squats, then lie on your back with the medicine ball between your ankles and raise your legs 90 degrees to sculpt your core.

Make your own exfoliating scrub

To get the glow we’re all after, start by sloughing off the dead skin. Make your own coffee body scrub by mixing coffee grinds, raw sugar or course sea salt, massage oil and a dash of cinnamon. The caffeine is said to reduce the appearance of cellulite and varicose veins. Plus you’ll smell like a yummy latte. Why not try it?

• Ensure silky, smooth skin

For this one, we consulted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model Chrissy Teigen who certainly knows a little bit about prepping for beach time. Her number one tip: shaving with the new Venus & Olay razor, the official razor of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2012 issue.  Olay Moisture Bars release skin conditioners to help lock in moisture* and the 5 blades mean a close shave is guaranteed every time.

    *for less dryness vs. Venus Breeze over time

• Opt for a sunless bronze

We all know that tanning leads to wrinkles or worse, but having a bit of color all over somehow makes us feel thinner and more toned. To get a healthy base color, go the sunless route with Smart Shield self tanner which has vitamins A, C and E, Aloe Vera and SPF 15.

• Find the most flattering swimsuit

The most universally flattering bikini is a halter top with molded cups and full hipster bottom. Pick one in a trendy neon color.  If you prefer a one-piece, try a figure-flattering strapless ruched suit with a sexy sheer mini dress as a cover up.

• Get some crazy nail polish

It’s hard enough to keep a manicure looking new, but adding pool or ocean water to the equation makes it nearly impossible. For the summer, try long-lasting nail polish strips. They’re like stickers made with real nail lacquer, and they come off with regular nail polish remover.

Do you have any summer-prep tips to share? Post on our Facebook wall and let us know!

Check out the latest from The Thread below.


Chrissy Teigen's Tips for a Hot Summer Body

Style Secrets From Carrie Underwood