Swimsuit shopping has always been a blend of excitement and trepidation for me. Finding that perfect balance between style, comfort, and function often feels like a mission. Enter the tankini – a versatile and revolutionary swimwear option that has subtly transformed my beachwear experience. So, what exactly is a tankini swimsuit, and why should you consider it for your next swimwear purchase? Let’s dive in together!
What is a Tankini?
Tankini swimsuits are essentially two-piece swimwear that combine the modest coverage of a tank top with the flexibility and mix-and-match potential of a bikini bottom. According to the NPD Group¡¯s retail tracking data, tankini sales increased by 2% last year. This shows how popular they are becoming. The beauty of a tankini lies in its versatility. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or taking a dip in the ocean, the tankini offers comfort without compromising on style.
Benefits of a Tankini
- Modesty: Tankini swimsuits provide more coverage than a bikini, ideal for those who prefer a more conservative look.
- Flexibility: With tankini swimwear, you can mix and match tops and bottoms to create unique combinations.
- Comfort: Tankinis are easier to manage in the restroom compared to one-piece swimsuits.
- Support: Many tankinis come with built-in bras or underwires for added support, catering to a wide range of bust sizes.
How to Find and Buy the Right Tankini Top
Finding the right tankini top involves a combination of personal style and practical needs. Consider the following when searching for your perfect tankini swimsuit:
- Size: Ensure you get the right fit. Try it on or check size guides carefully when shopping online. According to a survey by SwimOutlet, 30% of women choose swimwear based on fit.
- Comfort: Look for materials that feel good against your skin and offer sufficient stretch.
- Support: If you need extra support, choose tankinis with built-in bras, adjustable straps, or underwires.
- Style: Select a tankini design that complements your body shape and makes you feel confident.
Which Tankini Style is Right for Your Body Shape?
Choosing the right tankini style enhances your natural shape and boosts your confidence. Here are a few tips to find your perfect tankini swimsuit:
- Pear Shaped: If you are pear-shaped, opt for tankini tops with eye-catching details to draw attention upwards.
- Apple Shaped: Choose tankinis with ruffles or patterns that can camouflage the midsection.
- Hourglass Figure: Highlight your waist with a fitted tankini top that showcases your balanced proportions.
- Athletic Build: Use tankinis with added volume, like ruffles or peplum styles, to create curves.
Variants of Tankinis
- Halter Neck: These tankini swimsuits offer good support and a stylish neckline, perfect for beach parties.
- Bandeau: Ideal for sunbathing, providing a strapless option to avoid tan lines.
- Sporty: Designed for active swimmers, often with racerback styles for added support.
- Longline: Extends further down the torso, giving more coverage and a sleek look.
Why Is It Called Tankini?
The term “tankini” is a blend of the words “tank top” and “bikini”. Its naming reflects the amalgamation of the tank top¡¯s coverage with the playful, mixable elements of bikini bottoms. This clever naming has made tankini swimsuits a household term.
Anne Cole: The Inventor of the Tankini
Thanks to the innovative designer Anne Cole, we were introduced to tankinis in the late 1990s. Her vision reshaped women’s swimwear by offering a practical yet fashionable alternative to traditional bikinis and one-piece suits. Anne Cole¡¯s creation of the tankini swimsuit revolutionized beach attire, promoting versatility and style.
What Does a Tankini Look Like?
A tankini typically resembles a tank top paired with a swimsuit bottom. The top usually extends to the hips or longer, providing full coverage of the torso while offering an array of styles, from sporty to elegant. This makes tankini swimsuits suitable for various preferences and occasions.
Swimming Tankinis and Strapless Tankinis
Swimming tankinis are designed for active water activities, often featuring secure straps and supportive fabrics. Strapless tankinis, on the other hand, are perfect for sunbathing, offering a chic strap-free look to reduce tan lines. Both styles of tankini swimwear cater to different needs, from functionality to fashion.
Can You Swim In A Strapless Tankini?
Yes, you can swim in a strapless tankini, but make sure it offers secure support. Look for tankini designs with silicone grips or optional straps to ensure stability during movement, providing both style and functionality.
Tankini Swimsuit Tops
Tankini tops come in various designs, from halter necks and racerbacks to bandeaus and traditional tank tops. Choosing the right tankini top depends on your body type, comfort needs, and intended activities. For instance, planning a beach volleyball game? A sporty racerback tankini swimsuit might be the best choice.
Mix and Match Tankinis
One of the most fun aspects of tankini swimsuits is the ability to mix and match tops and bottoms. This not only lets you create multiple looks with a handful of pieces but also allows you to tailor your fit more precisely. Pair a bright floral top with a solid-colored bottom or vice versa to customize your beachwear to your personal style!
What Makes the Tankini Great?
- Versatility: Tankini swimsuits are perfect for various activities from swimming to beach sports.
- Customization: The mix and match capabilities of tankini swimwear allow for personalized style and fit.
- Comfort: Tankinis provide more coverage without sacrificing the ease of a two-piece, making them ideal for those looking for both functionality and fashion.
- Accessibility: Tankinis offer easier restroom access compared to a one-piece swimsuit¡ªsignificantly appreciated during long beach days.
How do I complete a tankini set?
To complete your tankini set, simply pair your chosen tankini top with a coordinating or contrasting swim bottom. Consider bottoms like shorts, briefs, or skirts, keeping in mind your comfort and activity level. Opt for a cohesive look with matching patterns or mix it up with bold color combinations for a unique style.
FAQ
What is the point of a tankini? The purpose of a tankini swimsuit is to offer the perfect blend of a bikini¡¯s flexibility and a one-piece¡¯s coverage, making it practical and stylish.
Who wears a tankini? Tankinis are for anyone seeking swimwear that offers comfort, versatility, and varied levels of coverage.
Can you swim in a tankini? Absolutely! Tankinis are designed for all water activities, from casual swimming to more active pursuits.
What is the difference between a swimsuit and a swimming suit? “Swimsuit” and “swimming suit” essentially mean the same thing; both terms refer to clothing designed for swimming.