The tankini swimsuit consists of a top and bottom that gives the illusion of a one-piece suit. They can be modest with more covering for the top or the bottom or as daring as some one-piece suits. The greatest advantage of tankinis is that they are slimming, shaping, and flatter all types of shapes and sizes. They are available in a variety of sizes, styles, fabric colors, and prices.

Tankinis are found in retail stores and at online sources in sizes for toddlers and girls, juniors, women including plus sizes, and pregnant women. The tops and bottoms are usually sold separately but not by all manufacturers. The fabric is a combination of nylon, Spandex, or polyester which stretches with body movement. Some are rated for sun protection and may be resistant to chlorine fading. Holding their shape is accomplished by machine washing in cold water and line drying.

The tops feature styles such as halter, bandeau, cross back, and shoulder straps. They may have twist front detail and gathered sides. Most come with a soft or padded bra that is either removable or non-removable. Types of bottoms are bikini, skirt with built-in brief, or a swim skirt with a detached brief. Bottoms can be ruffled or pleated or smooth. To enhance the figure, some feature a slimming tummy panel and high waist to assure that the top fully covers the body’s midsection.

Tankinis are anything but boring in vibrant colors and patterns so one can match the top and bottom or purchase contrasting colors. Fabrics feature paisley, prints, solids, polka dot, and traditional colors such as aqua, black, pink, and white. The pieces also come in more exotic colors of bluebird, kiwi, mango, and lime.

Prices for tops range from $12 at a discount store to $55 for designer brands while bottoms range from $25 to $50. When tops and bottoms are not sold separately, the suit costs from $66 to $120. Tops with D cups and women’s plus sizes usually cost more. Tankinis are sold at Macy’s, Sears, Walmart, and online by Zappos.com, Amazon.com, and L.L. Bean, to name a few. Your tankini swimsuit will flatter your body shape while being stylish and trendy.

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