“Since being a young girl, I don’t really remember being obsessed with new trends or the latest fads – but instead, I always wanted to acquire a sense of style that was timeless, classic + effortless (if that’s attainable & you’ve figured it out – be sure to let me in on your secret). Despite this, each year we’re told what the latest, greatest styles are – sure, I love the new cuts, fabrics, etc. but I don’t completely change my style to fit what’s trending, instead I find myself turning back to what makes me feel confident and something that flatters my figure.”
“This Aerie Suit does just that! (Practically every single one of their suits does *major heart eyes*) The crochet detailing is a nod to the 70’s which is prevalent this year, but the color palette is something that’s very true to my aesthetic and pairing the bikini with a classic white button down and a relaxed, floppy hat makes this look lean more towards classic. I tend to fill my suitcase with easy, go-to outfits like this! Perfect for beach lounging if you ask me. Of course, to and from the beach, I love to rock a pair of jean shorts like these over the suit!”
Shop Elana’s Look: Hand Crochet Triangle Bikini Top | Hand Crochet Teeny Bikini Bottom | Oversized Button Down Shirt | Hi-Rise Festival Shortie | Crochet Floppy Hat | Crochet Stripe Tote
“Now, why I am overjoyed to be putting pen to paper (or in this case, fingers to keyboard) in collaboration with Aerie + American Eagle is that they are the brands that have carried me along my style journey since adolescence. I always have found pieces that express my style and now, I am 100% behind them because of the values that come along with #AerieREAL. Embracing yourself as a natural woman, no matter what size, is vital to our happiness, success and confidence as women.”
“See, the thing is, just as you probably have – I’ve struggled with whole-heartedly accepting my body and my flaws. I’m not a glamorous gal; I proudly work from home (mostly in my bikini), don’t wash or style my hair on the daily and yes, I have cellulite. Everyday, I see perfectly made up beauties with perfect curls, lipstick on and impeccable outfits – and I can easily sink into the feeling that my reality is lack-luster, that I’m not as beautiful. But here’s the real reality, it is my life and it is beautiful. It’s worth living, exploring and enjoying. This is true for all of our lives. My every day doesn’t look perfect, but I work hard to chase my goals and live an intentional life. I am proud of my curvy, bold self – flaws, scars, outspoken personality and all. These things don’t define who I am, but instead what I am putting out into the world does. So today, I proudly partner with Aerie to share my un-retouched photos – my unedited, real self; the same person you’ll see working from a coffee shop, grabbing groceries or hangin’ at the beach any given Sunday. My soul is beautiful, my body is beautiful – I am beautiful. And so are you. So rock that bikini, be proud of your scars, your curves + your uniqueness! Be you – authentically and unapologetically.”
Photos by: Aaron Haynes