What Is A Tankini?

Like most women, you probably have some anxieties about wearing bathing suits. If this is the case, you may find that the tankini, which is basically a tank top made of spandex/cotton or Lycra/nylon blends and a bikini bottom, is the answer to your worries. It is a fairly new breed of swimwear, which first hit the market in the late 1990’s, but it is fast gaining popularity because it combines the freedom of a bikini with the modest coverage of a one-piece bathing suit.

The fact that the top of a tankini covers part or most of the belly is a major selling point for those who want to hide less-than-perfect midsections, or feel too modest to wear bikinis. Those whose are more daring but still uncomfortable in a bikini can opt for shorter, midriff-baring tops. For the bottom, one can choose from traditional bikini, skirted, boy shorts, string or even thong styles.

This kind of swimwear is suitable for most body types. Pear-shaped women usually need more volume and width to shoulders and chest, and for this, they can wear strapless, bandeau or racer back styles. Women with hourglass figures can wear almost any style, but they can emphasize their waist, if they want to, using shorter tops.

Women with an inverted triangle body shape can either draw attention away from wide shoulders by wearing a halter top style, or show off shapely model shoulders with bandeau or strapless styles. A tankini with a deep v-neck or gathering and shirring at the sides and middle can also give the illusion of a waist for rectangle-shaped women, and trim down the midriff for apple-shaped women. Regarding colors and prints, a rule of thumb is to wear darker colors near problems areas, such as the waist and brighter colors, or prints to emphasize features such as toned arms and shoulders.

The desired coverage is the main consideration for choosing bottoms. Go for dark colors or vertical stripes for a slimming effect and bright colors and horizontal stripes to give an illusion of a fuller figure. Also, choose high cut bottoms for longer-looking thighs and legs and boy shorts for fuller hips and butt.

Another reason for buying a tankini is its versatility. You get more value for your money because it allows you to mix and match styles such as buying two sets and creating four different looks. It is not necessary to have matching tops and bottoms.

If you are a parent buying beachwear for your children, they will appreciate the more grown up style of the tankini and the relatively modest coverage will surely meet your approval. You can also wear this kind of style when doing athletic activities, such as rafting and playing volleyball, without worrying about losing or displacing your top. The two-piece design offers more freedom of movement than one-piece styles such as maillots.

For women who have modest bust sizes, less-than-toned abdomens or have gone through a mastectomy, a tankini is often the most flattering option. A loose-fitting top with a sarong is suggested for women with gymnophobia or fear of nudity. On the other hand, styles with a split in the front that exposes the navel are available for pregnant women wanting to show off their baby bump.

There is no doubt that when you are looking for girls tankini, one of the top priorities to look at is a tankini. These fashion swimsuits are growing more popular because of the styles and comfort they provide. For more information on finding quality swimwear see Jill Wilson and other resources.