Basically, a tankini is a swimsuit that combines a tank top, mostly made of spandex/cotton or Lycra/nylon, and a bikini bottom. Debuting in the late 1990's, it was an instant hit, as it combines the freedom of a bikini with the more modest coverage of a one-piece bathing suit and answered many women's anxieties about swimwear. Nowadays, it comes in a variety of styles, colors and shapes, and even includes features such as integrated push-up bras.
The top of a tankini usually covers part or most of the belly, which is great for women who want to keep most of their midsection hidden, or feel too modest to wear a bikini. For the more daring ones, shorter styles that bare the midriff are also available. Bottoms also come in different styles: traditional bikini, skirted, boy shorts, string and even thong.
With the wide variety of styles available, this kind of swimsuit flatters most body types. Strapless, bandeau, racer back or tank top styles help balance the lower and upper body parts of pear-shaped women by adding more volume and width to shoulders and chest. On the other hand, hourglass-shaped women can emphasize their waist with shorter tankini 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 choice of bottoms depends on the desired coverage. Another general rule is that dark colors and vertical stripes have a slimming effect, while bright colors and horizontal stripes do the opposite. Another thing to remember: high cut bottoms elongate thighs and legs, while boy shorts give an illusion of fullness in the bottom half of the body.
Like bikinis, the top doesn't have to match the bottom. Users can mix and match patterns, so that it is possible to buy two tankini sets and create four different bathing suits. This versatility is another one of the reasons for the popularity of tankinis.
It also popular as children's beachwear and is sometimes used as athletic wear. For instance, one can go rafting, play volleyball and swim without worrying about losing the top. Its two-piece construction also allows more freedom of movement compared to maillots and other one-piece designs.
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 question that when you are in search of modest swimwear, 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 Jack Clemints other resources.