Watch the try-on and scroll down for photos
Last year, influencers gained powerful positions in beauty and fashion, and they show no signs of slowing down in 2018.
Gabi Gregg (aka GabiFresh) got her start as a plus-size blogger 10 years ago. She put the fatkini on the map and today she's releasing her third swimsuit collaboration with Swimsuits For All.
The "Power of Survival" collection was inspired by the Destiny's Child smash hit "Survivor." So naturally Gregg chose a jungle theme for the campaign.
The suits range from size 10 to 24 and pieces start as low as $34 on up to $105.
The stunning campaign features models Philomena Kwao and Ericka Hart alongside Gregg.
First up was Nicola. She tried the All Dunes Swimsuit in a size 12.
All Dunes Swimsuit by Gabi Fresh ($75, Swimsuits For All)
Nicola fell in love with corset-like bodice, but had a bit of discomfort from the shoulder straps.
"[The swimsuit] is certainly not as contracting as other one-piece swimsuits I’ve tried to wear, but the longer I hang out in this, the more I can feel the slight tug on my shoulders. That being said, I absolutely die for the flattering corset tie and backside cutouts," said Nicola.
When she tried on the Prairie Underwire Bikini, she knew it would be her favorite.
"The bottoms, which are a VERY flattering color for me, were true to size and sang to my high-waist-loving heart. This top, which I did size up from a 12 to a 14 for, fits PERFECTLY around my 37” chest. The D/DD was just big enough to create cleavage without being uncomfortable or gaudy," said Nicola.
What really sealed the deal for Nicola was the sexy wrap top.
Prairie Underwire bikini by Gabi Fresh ($71, Swimsuits For All)
Gregg also included some cover-ups in the collection, and Nicola called dibs on the Universe Maxi Dress.
Universe Maxi dress by Gabi Fresh ($55, Swimsuits For All)
The cinched bust line made it hard for her to slide the size 10/12 over her arms and boobs.
"Once I did get it on, it was comfortable, but I felt like my boobs were on display. If that’s your thing, great! But unfortunately, it didn’t cover me up as much as I wanted for… you know, a cover-up," said Nicola.
Last but not least, Nicola tried the Rockies Underwire Bikini in a size 14.
Rockies Underwire Bikini by Gabi Fresh ($105, Swimsuits For All)
"I would have loved this one as much as the white and orange number if it weren’t for the sizing issue I had with the top," said Nicola.
"The bottoms fit perfectly and true to size, but the top, which was already two sizes larger than I would normally be, pinched me pretty tight in the back — as you can tell by looking at it. Had I kept sizing up, the bandwidth might’ve been fine, but the cups would have been too large for me. Broad shouldered babes beware," said Nicola.
Meanwhile, I tried the same Rockies suit in a size 22 and fell in love.
I'm no stranger to Gregg's swimsuits; I've owned a few of them over the last two collections she's done.
The bikini top didn't cover much of my back fat, and I'm not mad at it.
If you don't feel comfortable showing off your back fat, you may want to skip this one.
Rockies Underwire Bikini by Gabi Fresh ($105, Swimsuits For All)
I couldn't wait any longer so the next item I tried on was this sexy AF cover-up.
Since I carry most of my weight on my stomach, I chose a size 22/24 so it would cascade down my curves rather than cling to them.
Glitter Solar Maxi Dress by Gabi Fresh ($38, Swimsuits For All)
At 5'4", the dress floated perfectly around my ankles.
Don't be surprised if you see me wearing this dress outside of the beach.
It was finally time to try on the swimsuit I was most excited for.
One of my favorite things about shopping Swimsuits For All is being able to select different sizes for the tops and bottoms. This size 20 top fit like a glove but for a high-waisted bottom I went up to a 24.
The open back detail gets an A+ for both style and comfortability.
No odd digging into back fat or uncomfortable seams.
Volcano Underwire Bikini by Gabi Fresh ($80, Swimsuits For All)
When I saw this teal one-piece, I literally shrieked.
Like your typical New Yorker, I live in black… but this bright one-piece really called my name. The first thing I noticed once I put it on was how deep the neckline was. My girls were all out, and honestly, I am here for it. My girls look great with a tan.
As I was looking back at it, I realized how much more mesh the swimsuit had in the back of the suit.
The mesh on the side of the belly and thigh area does go a bit higher than what I personally like, but it definitely wasn't a deal-breaker.
All Jungle Swimsuit by Gabi Fresh ($76, Swimsuits For All)
Final Review:
PROS: The designs and variety of colors available are what plus-size women need and deserve. You can't help but feel like a sexy goddess while wearing swimsuits designed by Gabi Gregg. She gets it.
CONS: Sizing can be a bit tricky (as is the case with most swimwear). For curvy babes who like full coverage, the bottoms aren't super high waisted. And if your back is broad like Nicola's, definitely size up in the bikini tops.
Once you nail the perfect fit, it's so worth it.
Shop the entire collection here.
