What is a Tankini?

Today, we're sharing all the details on what a tankini is and the benefits of it.

What is a tankini?
Let’s level-set on what a tankini swimsuit is and isn’t. Developed in the late 1990’s, the tankini swimsuit style is only about thirty years old. It’s a much newer swimsuit style than a one-piece or a bikini. Originally developed by Anne Cole, the design was created to offer coverage more similar to that of a one-piece but with the functionality of a two-piece—where the entire thing didn’t need to be removed to use the toilet. The tankini style is also heralded as one of the more versatile swim tops for women—supporting sports and beach activities, and providing more options for women of all sizes including women who have had a mastectomy surgery. While most commonly known as a tankini, it’s also known as a monokini, halterkini, and even a ‘takini’.

The traditional ‘takini’ or tankini is a tank-style swim top with almost full midsection coverage. The swimsuit usually covers right below the navel, leaving just a 1-2” sliver of tummy showing. And, the tankini top can be paired with everything from cheeky bikini bottoms to boy shorts, depending on coverage. The top can come with or without an underwire, and has many different tie options—from halter or self-tie styles to bandeau or traditional straps. It’s truly what we like to call the Miraclesuit of swimsuit tops!

Benefits of a tankini
Now that we're on the same page about what the tankini style is—and singing the praises of its original inventor, Anne Cole—it's time to discuss the many benefits of a tankini swimsuit.

• Coverage and support for all body types.

First up, the tankini style suit provides added coverage and support for women of all body types. If you're needing more midsection coverage but don't want to wear a full one-piece, the tankini top is for you. With many tankini swim options that come with an underwire, you can have even more support up top if you prefer it. For women and moms, often added support and coverage are key to feeling comfortable and confident in a swimsuit.

• Modest swimwear tops.

Next up, for many women, wearing a two-piece bikini top and bikini bottoms isn’t a comfortable experience. Many women want a more modest option without having to wear a one-piece swimsuit. The tankini swimsuit is that middle choice—giving women more choice in their swimwear. And, with a consistently high customer rating, we know this style is what more and more women want!

• Functional swimwear.

Last but not least, a tankini style top is just more functional. You don’t need to take off an entire suit to use the restroom. You can mix and match bikini bottoms to give you more swimwear and bathing suit options. It’s a win-win! And, last but not least, with more fabric comes more sun coverage. It’s really that simple—the less your skin is exposed to direct sunlight the better. Tankinis provide more coverage than a standard two-piece bikini.