What is a tankini?
Tankini A tank top is a two-piece women's swimsuit consisting of a top (a tank top) and classic bikini bottoms. The term is a portmanteau of the English words "tank top" and "bikini."
The style was developed in the late 1990s by American designer Anna Cole with the aim of combining the coverage of a one-piece swimsuit with the convenience of a two-piece. The key design feature of the tankini is that the top covers the stomach and waist but is not attached to the bottoms. This makes changing significantly easier.
Main types
A classic top is a form-fitting tank top with built-in cups or underwire for bust support. These styles often feature adjustable straps for a precise fit.
Flared styles (A-line) have a loose fit. They flare out from the bust and sit comfortably around the stomach, providing additional comfort. Sports tankinis are made of dense compression materials, feature a racerback, and are designed for active swimming or surfing.
The bottom of the swimsuit is versatile. The top can be paired with a classic bikini, high-waisted briefs, boy shorts, or skim skirts. Maternity styles are also available with special side gathers or elastic inserts to accommodate changes in the figure.
How to wear
The mix-and-match principle allows you to purchase the top and bottoms separately. This gives you the opportunity to combine different sizes, as well as pair a solid-color bottom with a printed top, or vice versa.
A tankini top easily adapts to the beach as a standalone wardrobe item. It's perfect with denim shorts, linen trousers, or wrap skirts for a trip to a beach café. A wide-brimmed straw hat, oversized sunglasses, and open sandals or espadrilles complete the resort-inspired look.
Tankinis come in a variety of styles to help shape your figure. High-cut tankinis visually lengthen your legs, while halter tops accentuate your shoulders.
