Feminism tells us to embrace our stretch marks and squidge, but sometimes it’s really quite hard, especially when going on holiday.
The thought of baring all in a bikini is daunting, leading many to opt for an all-in-one swimsuit instead. Yet, this brings about the issue of tanning. How can we bronze our stomachs and feel comfortable in our own skin at the same time?
One word: tankinis. Tankinis are the lesser-considered category of the swimwear genre. Consisting of a slightly cropped tank top and normal bikini briefs, the sets offer a modest yet tan-friendly option for those wanting both coverage and convenience.
The design was introduced in the late 1990s and gained popularity in the Noughties. Styles range from push-ups to au naturale wireless, the latter of which are keenly favoured by those who play beach sports such as volleyball or surfing and need flash-free options.
Tweens and teens were the target market for brands such as Boden and M&S who stocked the functional two-pieces. Stripes, spots and other mix-and-match designs peppered brand catalogues, which would arrive every Saturday morning without fail for kids to devour.
Since then, tankinis have been successfully integrated into womenswear collections. While they remain limited in number, there is no shortage of colourful designs, prints and patterns.
Seafolly, John Lewis and La Redoute stock youthful pieces for women wanting to hit the sand in style. Although luxury labels are yet to catch on (we have no doubt a monogrammed Gucci tankini would be a sell-out), there are a handful of trend-led tank top twosomes to consider.
So before Dua Lipa, Gigi Hadid or Emily Ratajkowski are snapped in a tankini (kickstarting a viral trend in the process), get ahead of the curve by discovering the best tankinis to wear this summer to feel confident during your next beachside break below.
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Joe Browns Mexicano Boho Tankini Top
You’ll be racing to Skyscanner to book your next beach break when you catch a glimpse of Joe Browns’ Mexicano Boho Tankini. Featuring a raspberry pink colourway, a crochet trim and a recycled fabric with sprawling rose florals, the pretty piece will look radiant with a golden sun-kissed glow.
Buy now £32.00, Debehams
Seafolly Wonderland Front Bandeau Tankini
Feel confident in Seafolly’s luxurious and flattering Wonderland tankini. An explosion of tropical colours adorns the set, which features a bandeau style and sculpting side boning. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £95.00, Seafolly
Boden Santorini Tankini
Inject a bolt of colour into your beach attire with Boden's Santorini Tankini. Available in ten varying colourways and prints, the versatile sets will accentuate your assets and ensure you feel at ease on holiday. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £38.00, Boden
John Lewis Rio Spot Ruched Band Tankini
A scattering of leopard print spots peppers this easy-wear tankini in a cream and forest green colourway. Attach or detach the halterneck strap and style as you please, while allowing the ruched sides to effortlessly sculpt the figure. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £32.00, John Lewis
La Redoute Tropical Print Tankini Top
Tropic like it’s hot. La Redoute’s tropical-themed tankini is ideal for exotic getaways surrounded by palm trees and white sandy beaches. Pair yours with gold jewellery for an even more radiant golden glow. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £21.60, La Redoute
ASOS DESIGN Long Line Tankini
Not a fan of bold prints? Never fear as ASOS is here. The brand’s tankini comes in a pretty hue coined ‘boyfriend blue’ by the online marketplace and features a scoop neck, tie-bottom briefs and adjustable straps. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £20.00, ASOS
Lygia & Nanny Bruma Leaf-Print Tankini
Add a splash of luxury to your swimwear archive. Lygia & Nanny has an array of tropical-themed tankinis to add to your online shopping basket. From sunset orange tones to colour-block designs, these patterns will be just the ticket to elevate your holiday wardrobe.
Buy now £92.00, Farfetch
White Stuff Sunshine Reversible Printed Tankini
Get two for the price of one with White Stuff’s Sunshine Reversible Printed Tankini. A feminine halterneck is complemented by a double-sided print, either tie dye or geometric motifs, and a thick, flattering trim. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £40.00, White Stuff
River Island Cream Crinkle Tankini
Soak in the sun’s rays in a crisp white tankini that you will live in all summer. This crinkled rendition by River Island will take you from pool to beach bar with a sprinkling of gold jewels and a sarong. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £20.00, River Island
Simply Be Panache Renee Balcony Wired Adjustable Side Tankini
Feel your best on your far-flung beach vacation with a tankini that fits like a glove. This sweet gingham set has double-denier lined cups that provide support and uplift, in addition to a classic navy and white check. Briefs are available here.
Buy now £58.00, Simply Be
