In the swimwear world, the tankini is a swimsuit design that’s always hot on the heels of the bikini and getting hotter by the year. But what do we really know about this reliable swimsuit design that’s been around for years and loved by all? We take a deep dive into the tankini below.
What is a Tankini?
The tankini is often referred to as the “bikinis modest” cousin. It’s a double design that features both a top and bottom half, with the top commonly resembling a tank top and the bottom following the design outline of standard bikini bottoms (though tankini shorts are available!)
To paint a more vivid picture, a tankini top’s fabric usually covers the bust and tummy area. While straps are common, it’s not rare to see sleeveless versions either. The material of the tank top can be loose, hiding the figure underneath, or it can be figure-hugging, making for a flattering appeal.
The bottom half of the tankini follows much the same design as a standard bikini bottom, with various style options available such as tied sides, high rise, and low rise.
Together, both pieces form the tankini, which is made in various colors, patterns, etc.
Tankini vs. Swimsuit: What’s the Difference?
There is none! Swimsuit is an umbrella term for multiple styles and designs of a garment used for swimming, water activities, or just lounging around water. The tankini is made from the same polyester, elastane, and nylon material mix as most other swimsuits, making it ideal for exposure to water.
So, really, the tankini isn’t different from a swimsuit, but rather just another type of swimsuit.
What is the Point of a Tankini?
At the most basic level, the purpose of a tankini is to make swimming easier and more comfortable while providing coverage and comfort to its wearer.
Tankinis serve to provide all the coverage benefits of a one-piece swimsuit with a few added advantages on the classic two-piece, such as being easier to put on and take off – especially helpful when nature calls.
That said, its purpose also varies depending on needs. Take surfers, for example. They often opt to wear tankinis instead of bikinis to protect against rashes that can form in the tummy area due to friction with their surfboard. Tankinis are also used as a rash guard by some participating in water sports, where they may come intact with the water at speed.
The tankini can also provide extra skin protection against the sun. That said, this added layer of cover should never be relied on as some tankini materials can still let the sun’s rays through. In other words, sunscreen is always your best bet.
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Who Should Wear a Tankini?
While we’d recommend a well-fitted tankini to everyone due to their stylish appeal and comfortable edge, they have some features that make them particularly attractive to some preferences.
If you want to cover your tummy area or hide away your love handles, the tankini could be the right choice for you!
That said, one of the reasons tankinis have become a popular go-to choice of swimwear for many is that regardless of size, shape, or age, a tankini can work wonders for anyone. They’re also incredibly versatile and suitable for most climates and any water activity.
However, this question is almost inevitably followed up by another question …
Are Tankinis for Older Ladies?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, tankinis are one of the most popular swimwear choices among older ladies. Tankinis, in their many design and styles, can be worn by anyone of any age. Older women may appreciate the tankini’s added coverage and figure-flattering perks alongside its easy-to-put-on, easy-to-take-off design.
Is a Tankini One-piece or Two-piece?
The magic of the standard tankini is that it’s a two-piece that looks like a one-piece. That said, there are some exceptions to the design rule that allow for a small sliver of skin to show around the mid-section, just between the swimsuit’s top and bottom.
While most of the figure-hugging tankinis also create the illusion of being one-piece swimsuits, those with looser tops and more billowy fabric can easily be identified as two-piece swimsuits.
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Is a Tankini Flattering?
Tankinis look fabulous on most body shapes thanks to their figure-flattering coverage. That said, their silhouette-sculpting effect is largely dependent on swimsuit design. Should you opt for a more tight-fitting tankini with no loose material, your figure will benefit from its ability to cinch the waist for a more hourglass figure.
As well, if your aim is to camouflage your midsection, a tankini with loose material can hide your figure, allowing you to take your mind off your body worries and onto enjoying your beach or swim day!
Can I get a Tan in a Tankini?
Yes! You may be surprised to learn that it’s actually possible to tan through swimwear. Most tankini materials let some of the sun’s rays through their fabric, meaning that you can achieve lightly bronzed skin over time. However, it’s still best to apply sunscreen before putting your tankini on to ensure full protection against the sun. Should you notice any pesky sunscreen stains forming on your tankini, it’s always best to have a, “how to get sunscreen out of my swimsuit” guide on hand.
Or, if know that you know the sun’s rays can penetrate your swimsuit, you’d like to add an extra layer of protection, you can always opt to wear an extra layer of protection over your swimsuit.
Are Tankinis in Style?
Yes, in fact, we’d argue that tankinis are one swimsuit style that never goes out of style. They’re worn by swimmers and beachgoers of all ages and loved by all for their timeless convenience, functionality, and effortless style.
That said, the tankini had a slight “comeback” in 2022 as its popularity skyrocketed thanks to the introduction of several exciting new variations, including cut-out styles and cropped lengths. The tankini was even named “the trendies swimsuit of 2021” by the famous American media company, Popsugar.
While plenty of people have always loved the tankini style for its coverage and versatility, the new iteration we’re seeing now all have a fresh feel to them. In addition, various brands are experimenting with the length of the tankinis tank top, creating shorter and longer versions that appeal to a wider scope of swimmer fashionistas.
In short, while the tankini is always much-loved, it’s definitely one swimsuit design that’s having a bit of a moment right now. So, don’t hesitate to snap one up and be the trendiest gal at the beach or beside the pool.
Select options
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Does a Tankini Include Bottoms?
Yes, most tankinis feature a standard two-piece swimsuit bottom that resembles a bikini bottom and tends to match the style of the suit’s top half. While you’re more likely to see high-rise tankini bottoms, there are also longer versions available that resemble shorts and provide more coverage.
Can you Wear a Tankini Top with Board Shorts?
Yes, in fact, you can wear tankinis with any type of swimwear or beachwear shorts. Wearing a tankini top with board shorts is a style choice that was popularised by well-known Australian tv shows that have gained a vast following worldwide.
The chill combination makes for a casual-chic look that never goes out of style. What’s more, it’s incredibly comfortable and convenient, given that tankini bottoms can be worn underneath the board shorts, meaning that you have the option of taking them off and on throughout the day.
In other words, you may not always want to go into the water with your board shorts. Still, they pair fantastically with a tankini top as a beachside coverup.
Can I Swim Laps in a Tankini?
Of course! Though we’ll admit you’ll rarely (read: never) see a competitive swimmer doing laps in a tankini, it can still be done. In fact, if you can find the right fit that holds snuggly to your body, the tankini’s style might not even hinder you at all.
That said, you’ll want to avoid doing any serious swimming in tankinis that have loose-fitting material as it can “drag” in the water, slowing you down and making for an uncomfortable swim.
So, if you’re on the hunt for a tankini to swim laps in, be on the lookout for a slimline style with tight-fitting material.
Do Men Like Tankinis?
Men, women, and, well, everyone likes tankinis! They look great, feel fantastic, and provide freedom of movement that’s perfect for having the time of your life pool or beachside! They also tend to bring out the best in any figure allowing women to flaunt their best sides while feeling fully confident. So really, what’s not to like about the tankini swimsuit?
The Bottom Line
Tankinis are women’s two-piece swimsuits combining a top half styled like a tank top with a bikini bottom that comes in various styles. It’s much-loved by many for its style, comfort, and coverage benefits while also performing excellently as a swimsuit that you can actually swim in. Tankinis are also proving to be right on-trend at the moment, meaning you should be sure to stock up before next Summer or that Winter getaway you’ve been planning. All things considered, the tankini is a classic swimsuit that never goes out of style.
It happens. You’ve hunted down, found, and bought the swimsuit of your dreams. So far, so good until you try it on and your anatomy turns against you. Sometimes, it really just is a matter of having larger labia, other times, it’s due to the swimsuit. Either way, you’re facing down cameltoe, which we’re not going to …
The short answer A swimsuit can lose its elasticity because of exposure to chlorine and salt water, sun exposure, improper washing and drying, poor quality fabric, and overuse. The result is a swimsuit that is no longer comfortable or supportive and has a greater chance of malfunctioning.However, there are simple steps you can take to …
It’s one of the trickiest swimwear dilemmas. You want to wear your favorite swimsuit and feel flawless, but there’s just one little lumpy problem: that pesky cellulite that just won’t budge, leading us to ask, “How do you hide cellulite with a bathing suit?” We asked the same thing and did the research, so you don’t have …
We’ve all been there. Wearing a swimsuit or bikini that you think is probably too big but you’ve been hesitant to get a new one. In this post we’ll help you identify the signs that your swimsuit or bikini is too big. Instead, want to know how to tell if your swimsuit is too small? …
Your Guide to the Tankini
In the swimwear world, the tankini is a swimsuit design that’s always hot on the heels of the bikini and getting hotter by the year. But what do we really know about this reliable swimsuit design that’s been around for years and loved by all? We take a deep dive into the tankini below.
What is a Tankini?
The tankini is often referred to as the “bikinis modest” cousin. It’s a double design that features both a top and bottom half, with the top commonly resembling a tank top and the bottom following the design outline of standard bikini bottoms (though tankini shorts are available!)
To paint a more vivid picture, a tankini top’s fabric usually covers the bust and tummy area. While straps are common, it’s not rare to see sleeveless versions either. The material of the tank top can be loose, hiding the figure underneath, or it can be figure-hugging, making for a flattering appeal.
The bottom half of the tankini follows much the same design as a standard bikini bottom, with various style options available such as tied sides, high rise, and low rise.
Together, both pieces form the tankini, which is made in various colors, patterns, etc.
Tankini vs. Swimsuit: What’s the Difference?
There is none! Swimsuit is an umbrella term for multiple styles and designs of a garment used for swimming, water activities, or just lounging around water. The tankini is made from the same polyester, elastane, and nylon material mix as most other swimsuits, making it ideal for exposure to water.
So, really, the tankini isn’t different from a swimsuit, but rather just another type of swimsuit.
What is the Point of a Tankini?
At the most basic level, the purpose of a tankini is to make swimming easier and more comfortable while providing coverage and comfort to its wearer.
Tankinis serve to provide all the coverage benefits of a one-piece swimsuit with a few added advantages on the classic two-piece, such as being easier to put on and take off – especially helpful when nature calls.
That said, its purpose also varies depending on needs. Take surfers, for example. They often opt to wear tankinis instead of bikinis to protect against rashes that can form in the tummy area due to friction with their surfboard. Tankinis are also used as a rash guard by some participating in water sports, where they may come intact with the water at speed.
The tankini can also provide extra skin protection against the sun. That said, this added layer of cover should never be relied on as some tankini materials can still let the sun’s rays through. In other words, sunscreen is always your best bet.
Maldives
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$49Who Should Wear a Tankini?
While we’d recommend a well-fitted tankini to everyone due to their stylish appeal and comfortable edge, they have some features that make them particularly attractive to some preferences.
If you want to cover your tummy area or hide away your love handles, the tankini could be the right choice for you!
That said, one of the reasons tankinis have become a popular go-to choice of swimwear for many is that regardless of size, shape, or age, a tankini can work wonders for anyone. They’re also incredibly versatile and suitable for most climates and any water activity.
However, this question is almost inevitably followed up by another question …
Are Tankinis for Older Ladies?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, tankinis are one of the most popular swimwear choices among older ladies. Tankinis, in their many design and styles, can be worn by anyone of any age. Older women may appreciate the tankini’s added coverage and figure-flattering perks alongside its easy-to-put-on, easy-to-take-off design.
Is a Tankini One-piece or Two-piece?
The magic of the standard tankini is that it’s a two-piece that looks like a one-piece. That said, there are some exceptions to the design rule that allow for a small sliver of skin to show around the mid-section, just between the swimsuit’s top and bottom.
While most of the figure-hugging tankinis also create the illusion of being one-piece swimsuits, those with looser tops and more billowy fabric can easily be identified as two-piece swimsuits.
Turtle Palm – Father and Son
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Sea
$60Is a Tankini Flattering?
Tankinis look fabulous on most body shapes thanks to their figure-flattering coverage. That said, their silhouette-sculpting effect is largely dependent on swimsuit design. Should you opt for a more tight-fitting tankini with no loose material, your figure will benefit from its ability to cinch the waist for a more hourglass figure.
As well, if your aim is to camouflage your midsection, a tankini with loose material can hide your figure, allowing you to take your mind off your body worries and onto enjoying your beach or swim day!
Can I get a Tan in a Tankini?
Yes! You may be surprised to learn that it’s actually possible to tan through swimwear. Most tankini materials let some of the sun’s rays through their fabric, meaning that you can achieve lightly bronzed skin over time. However, it’s still best to apply sunscreen before putting your tankini on to ensure full protection against the sun. Should you notice any pesky sunscreen stains forming on your tankini, it’s always best to have a, “how to get sunscreen out of my swimsuit” guide on hand.
Or, if know that you know the sun’s rays can penetrate your swimsuit, you’d like to add an extra layer of protection, you can always opt to wear an extra layer of protection over your swimsuit.
Are Tankinis in Style?
Yes, in fact, we’d argue that tankinis are one swimsuit style that never goes out of style. They’re worn by swimmers and beachgoers of all ages and loved by all for their timeless convenience, functionality, and effortless style.
That said, the tankini had a slight “comeback” in 2022 as its popularity skyrocketed thanks to the introduction of several exciting new variations, including cut-out styles and cropped lengths. The tankini was even named “the trendies swimsuit of 2021” by the famous American media company, Popsugar.
While plenty of people have always loved the tankini style for its coverage and versatility, the new iteration we’re seeing now all have a fresh feel to them. In addition, various brands are experimenting with the length of the tankinis tank top, creating shorter and longer versions that appeal to a wider scope of swimmer fashionistas.
In short, while the tankini is always much-loved, it’s definitely one swimsuit design that’s having a bit of a moment right now. So, don’t hesitate to snap one up and be the trendiest gal at the beach or beside the pool.
Turtle Palm – Father and Son
$68Sand
$60Pineapple Watermelon Swim Shorts
Los Angeles Swim Shorts
$60Does a Tankini Include Bottoms?
Yes, most tankinis feature a standard two-piece swimsuit bottom that resembles a bikini bottom and tends to match the style of the suit’s top half. While you’re more likely to see high-rise tankini bottoms, there are also longer versions available that resemble shorts and provide more coverage.
Can you Wear a Tankini Top with Board Shorts?
Yes, in fact, you can wear tankinis with any type of swimwear or beachwear shorts. Wearing a tankini top with board shorts is a style choice that was popularised by well-known Australian tv shows that have gained a vast following worldwide.
The chill combination makes for a casual-chic look that never goes out of style. What’s more, it’s incredibly comfortable and convenient, given that tankini bottoms can be worn underneath the board shorts, meaning that you have the option of taking them off and on throughout the day.
In other words, you may not always want to go into the water with your board shorts. Still, they pair fantastically with a tankini top as a beachside coverup.
Can I Swim Laps in a Tankini?
Of course! Though we’ll admit you’ll rarely (read: never) see a competitive swimmer doing laps in a tankini, it can still be done. In fact, if you can find the right fit that holds snuggly to your body, the tankini’s style might not even hinder you at all.
That said, you’ll want to avoid doing any serious swimming in tankinis that have loose-fitting material as it can “drag” in the water, slowing you down and making for an uncomfortable swim.
So, if you’re on the hunt for a tankini to swim laps in, be on the lookout for a slimline style with tight-fitting material.
Do Men Like Tankinis?
Men, women, and, well, everyone likes tankinis! They look great, feel fantastic, and provide freedom of movement that’s perfect for having the time of your life pool or beachside! They also tend to bring out the best in any figure allowing women to flaunt their best sides while feeling fully confident. So really, what’s not to like about the tankini swimsuit?
The Bottom Line
Tankinis are women’s two-piece swimsuits combining a top half styled like a tank top with a bikini bottom that comes in various styles. It’s much-loved by many for its style, comfort, and coverage benefits while also performing excellently as a swimsuit that you can actually swim in. Tankinis are also proving to be right on-trend at the moment, meaning you should be sure to stock up before next Summer or that Winter getaway you’ve been planning. All things considered, the tankini is a classic swimsuit that never goes out of style.
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