Did you know that American women didn't really jump on the bikini bandwagon until the late 1960s with the start of the so-called Sexual Revolution. Since that time, the bikini and its stylish variations of bikini design have become the most popular swimsuit style in the U.S.
Because there are so many variations in bikini design, it helps to be familiar with the available styles before going shopping. Be aware, too, that your body shape and your level of self-confidence will also have an impact on the style you ultimately select.
Bikini Styles |The following bikini glossary provides basic descriptions of the many types of bikinis design currently on the market.
String bikini - This classic, skimpy style features four strategically placed triangles connected by strings.
Tankini - A tank-style top and a traditional, string, or thong bottom.
Bandini - A strapless tube or bandeau top combined with a regular bikini bottom.
Camikini - A camisole top that will support larger breasts combined with any type of bikini bottom.
Thong - A bikini top with a bottom that covers the groin with a small piece of fabric connected by strings on the sides and between the buttocks.
Halter bikini - A top with a strap that circles the neck and attaches to the bodice combined with a traditional bikini bottom.
Micro bikini - A string bikini top with tiny triangles that cover the nipples and little more, with a g-string bottom.
Monokini - A skimpy bikini connected with a strip of fabric that runs from top to bottom or a bikini bottom worn without a top.
Sports Bikini - Worn by women who love sports, it features a top that is as supportive as a bra and a traditional bikini bottom.
Seekini - Any type of bikini that is "see-through" and usually can be worn only on certain beaches.
By this knowledge of the most popular bikini styles, you can now move on to consider the type of material your bikini is made of, its color options, and the care it will require. The best selection of bikini styles and style options can be found by visiting a regular brick-and-mortar store or an online shop that lets you mix and match tops and bottoms for the best fit. The ability to combine tops and bottoms also lets you be creative in using solid colors and/or patterns to develop your own personal bikini design.
