Tankini Tops
From LoveToKnow Swimsuits
Tankini tops are some of the most comfortable swimwear options out there. They're ideal for a number of reasons, not the least being that they're flattering to so many different body types. The real fun comes in choosing a style (or two or three!); there are so many available that playing dress up on the beach or by the pool can easily become a reality!
Why Tankini Tops Are Tops
There's no two ways about it: Tankini tops stand out. They are vastly different from the traditional bikini top that bares plenty of skin. They also offer a different approach to the more conservative one-piece bathing suit. Tankini tops are similar to form fitting tank tops, and thus are a favorite of women who prefer not to show off too much skin.
Benefits
In addition to providing more coverage than a bikini top, tankini tops offer a few more benefits that make them so appealing:
- Support: Women with larger busts often find the best solution in a stylish tankini. Many tops have built-in underwire support; this creates a shapelier and more flattering fit.
- Coverage: Women with a bit of bulge in their tummy find that tankinis are especially useful. They provide coverage and lend the area a smoother, more toned appearance.
Styles
Tankini tops aren't all cut from the same cookie cutter mold. There are numerous styles available offering women something different in the shape and support departments.
- Asymmetrical: The asymmetrical style is especially figure flattering for women who aim to conceal their bellies. This look minimizes the waist thanks to a fluttery, relaxed cut that flows open over the hips.
- Bandeau: Bandeau tops are irresistibly sporty and modern. This style bares the shoulders, although some styles do come with removable straps. Certain cuts may include removable shaping cups and supportive side boning; both are good if you need plenty of bust support.
- Cami: Also known as the "camikini", this style is a newer addition to the tankini world and is recognized for its camisole-like top. This fitted style offers great support to women with large busts.
- Halter: The halter top features an adjustable tie at the neck as opposed to the shoulder straps of a traditional top. This style works well for triangle shaped figures or those with fuller hips and bottoms, particularly when paired with darker colored bottoms.
- Tank: The traditional tankini top style is the simple tank. It offers more coverage than a bikini, yet still allows a hint of skin to peek through.
- Wrap: A wrap tankini is a great choice for strong support. It features traditional shoulder straps that lead down to a crossover wrap front. Many styles include shelf bras to provide a little extra support and may also include removable cups for added boost.
Make the Most of the Tankini
Shopping for a swimsuit is one of the more stressful tasks a woman is likely to complete. Even more than finding one that simply looks great from a stylistic standpoint, it's also important to find one that flatters your unique figure. Women deal with a multitude of imperfections and often find it difficult to find that one perfect suit – the one that will conceal trouble spots and draw attention to the best features. Depending on your body type, you may find just what you need in a tankini swimsuit. The following trouble spots may be minimized by a tankini top:
- Heavy thighs are easily helped along by the addition of a tankini. The key is to slim the thigh area by creating a visually elongated leg. Accomplish this by wearing dark colored, high-cut bottoms and a long top that meets the waistband of the bottoms. The best effect is achieved when the top is light and attention grabbing – think floral prints and vivid patterns.
- Pear shapes also benefit from a light, boldly patterned top and a darker colored bottom. Look for tops that plunge slightly to a lower cut; this draws the eye upward to the bust line. Again, high-cut legs on the bottom are essential; they'll slim out the lower half of the body and keep the tummy under control. Also seek out ruched mid-sections that help define the waistline.
- Small busts can add a little boost with the help of a padded tankini top. Believe it or not, many labels now offer push up bra versions of the top. This can easily boost a woman's self-esteem if she's self-conscious about a very small bust.
- Torsos can be either short or long, so choosing the right swimsuit is essential. Although the most important factor is the way the swimsuit fits along your thighs, as well as the overall cut of the leg area, you can earn major style points with a tankini. This style is ideal for individuals with long torsos and relatively slim mid-sections. Opt for a short top that sits at the waist (as opposed to hitting the waistband of the bottoms). This essentially breaks up the torso and lends it an overall shorter look.
Things to Remember
As with any type of swimsuit, proper fit is crucial. Wearing something too small easily results in an unkempt look that will undoubtedly call attention to trouble spots. Avoid tops that are too snug, or you'll risk accentuating unsightly stomach bulges. For the same reason, avoid tops that fall well short of the waistband of your bottoms; this will reveal more bare skin and call attention to that area. That's a no-no if your belly is a trouble spot you're trying to conceal.
For the best results, try your tops on before purchasing. Once you have a handle on the colors, lengths and cuts that work best for you, you can dive into the world of Internet swimwear shopping and take advantage of the plentiful bargains available!
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This page has been accessed 1,569 times. This page was last modified 12:50, 1 May 2009.
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