Empowerment Is: Owning Our Bodies Despite Challenges
Today, female empowerment is often associated with “showing more,” with women who dare to “bare all.” This phenomenon is hailed as brave and boundary-defying. But the truth is that at a time in which nude selfies and string bikinis are all the rage, it takes strength, courage, and self-confidence to buck the trend and stroll along the beach in a suit specifically designed to offer more coverage. Staying true to one’s values isn’t always easy, especially when they aren’t in vogue in the wider world, and that’s why we find some of the world’s toughest women among HydroChic’s clientele.
And you can’t get much tougher than Rebecca* from Arizona. Serving four years in the US Air Force took its toll on Rebecca, both physically and emotionally. After sustaining severe back injuries, she underwent five corrective surgeries (that’s right, five). But those aren’t the only scars she bares. During her service, Rebecca was sexually assaulted by another soldier, an incident that left her broken and struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Fast forward to the present and Rebecca has transformed. She and her husband adopted a beautiful daughter, and though healing from abuse is an ongoing journey, her years in therapy have gone a long way in helping her to cope with her experience.
As for her physical progress, finally free of the wheelchair she was confined to throughout her treatment, Rebecca has reengaged her active side, losing weight, getting into shape, and feeling a lot more like her old self. This rejuvenation prompted her to search for a swimsuit that both flattered her figure and met her needs. Battle scars aside, as a devout Catholic who values modesty and works hard to set an example for her daughter and many nieces, Rebecca wasn’t interested in the minimalist bathing suits the stores were selling. And living in the Sonoran Desert, where it’s pretty much summer year round meant that layering up wasn’t an appealing option either!
Luckily, Rebecca happened upon an ad featuring Mayim Bialik in a HydroChic piece and thought she looked not only beautiful, but comfortable as well! Her husband encouraged her to order one for herself and, when she tried it on, told her it was the most perfect swimsuit she’d ever bought. She knew she’d made the right decision when she and her family went for a dip in the lake and, while she noticed other women awkwardly trying to cover themselves up, Rebecca felt free to move around and enjoy the water without fretting about the way she looked.
“This swimwear is modest, comfortable, attractive, and comes with a supportive bra. It is cool enough for the Arizona Desert (where we live) and I just love it! I’ve never felt more confident. I’ve lost quite a bit of weight recently and plan to buy another just like it just smaller. Thank you so much for making such great quality swimwear!” – Rebecca
HydroChic isn’t just about fashion or comfort. It’s about providing women with options when it comes to their bodies and their freedom. All women, especially someone who’s been through the physical and emotional traumas that Rebecca endured, deserve to take ownership of their bodies and feel at ease, even in the desert heat.
[*] The name has been changed.
HydroChic is proud to offer comfort and style to women of all ages. Each of our customers has her own reason for wanting to show less skin, and whether it stems from modesty, sun safety, empowerment, or a simple matter of preference, we are thrilled to be able to provide a chic and practical swimwear solution (with UPF 50+ Sun Protection).
As an increasing number of “barely there” swimsuits swarm our favorite summer spots, it can be a bit intimidating to strut the boardwalk in something different. That’s why we think it’s important for you to know that you’re not alone, and why we’re excited to share our SPOTLIGHT on US project, relaying the relate-able experiences of customers just like you! Email us your story: [email protected]