Folly Beach

Every beach getaway deserves a new swimsuit, so I was especially grateful that Orchid Boutique offered to send one over just in time for our South Carolina vacation. The shop offers an array of beach essentials and has already become my go-to destination for flattering one-piece swimsuits.

I fell for the whimsical updates on this classic navy swimsuit. There’s enough ruching to hide trouble spots and the box pleats are a welcome way to boost my small bust. A word of warning to other ladies with full hips: this suit is difficult to hike up. I had chosen my regular size (I didn’t want it to be too large on top), but I’d recommend sizing up if you’re blessed with an hourglass figure. It comes with a detachable halter strap if you’re looking for additional support.

Really, though, I felt beautiful in this swimsuit and isn’t that what matters most? (Truth be told, I didn’t feel as confident as the bikini-clad gal on the beach nearby. Her boyfriend was snapping photos of her in some awfully risque poses!)

Featured: gifted Seafolly swimsuit // Juicy Couture sunglasses // Essie “First Timer” nail polish

We spent the first three nights of our vacation in Folly Beach where we had a spectacular view from our room at the beachfront Tides hotel.

Mornings were spent lazily sipping iced coffee by the pool…

…and stumbling across critters like this horseshoe crab.

Lost Dog Cafe was our daily stop for a hearty brunch and drinks served in Mason jars.

We took a private charter boat over to Morris Island, an uninhabited island and location of the Civil War battle featured in the movie Glory. On the way over, Captain Gresh pointed out Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (the first time I’ve seen them in the wild) and oyster beds.

We headed up the shoreline of Folly Beach to a more secluded area of the coast for an evening stroll. (I don’t think Dave knew I was busy snapping photos of him.)