Not a big deal for her to wear a bikini if she wants too but wearing one in a desert is not a good decision and I don't know any older women who would do it because of UV rays,and I know a few older women who dress like they are in their 20's, not anything to do with her right to wear a bikini.
Protection from the sun and skin damage. Agree.
Maybe BT felt the same and took precautions to protect herself with sunscreen, as an example. Maybe, she doesn't feel the same way as you on the subject.
I have no clue if BT made good or bad decisions. My comment was to point out it's not really unusual (in my experience) to see someone hiking in something similar to a bikini.
(If I recall correctly, you stated: Hmmm I wonder if that is the only time she wears a bikini is when they are going to be in the river. I don't know anyone who would wear a bikini in the desert on a hike)
Many people when they step out for a short day hike don't anticipate an emergency, such as a severe injury or getting lost, as an example. If this were to happen - what means do you (not you personally) have to get help and keep yourself alive until a rescue? What you carry is your life line potentially. Based on the information released I was VERY concerned for BT when she went missing and SAR was actively conducting searches for her. If the information released was accurate, she most likely only had what she was wearing and 12 oz. of fluid. This is a harsh environment. We also have no idea what kind of condition she was in when she set off that day, how hydrated she was, what she ate, etc. To me, this information matters as well. Probability of survival, the bigger picture based on several factors.
Some members here question if that's really what she was wearing to begin. Some people just can't wrap their minds around it because they would not do the same, ever. Some say this appears to be normal for her and others, even if they would not do the same. The list goes on really.