Plus-Size Bikini vs Plus-Sized Tankini
Summer is finally here, and we all know that no summer wardrobe is complete without your perfect go-to swimwear of the season. We understand that making choices about purchasing new swimwear can sometimes be a daunting prospect, so we're here to help. Bikinis and tankinis have both been at the forefront of swimwear choices for a long time and there’s good news—neither are showing any signs of going out of style any time soon. Both of these choices are attractive and stylish choices for swimwear tops, so it really just comes down to which is the best choice for you.
We’re here to help you break it down and decide.
The Tankini Break-Down
A plus-size tankini combines the comfort of a tank top and the freedom of a bikini bottom all in one swimsuit. Tankinis tend to come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and styles. You can find slimming, tummy-solution tankinis or underwire tankinis for extra bust support. These swimsuits are varied and they deliver.
A simple, classic plus-sized tankini style is going to provide you with the most coverage. Wearing a plus-sized tankini will also cut down on extra pieces you feel you have to wear or bring with you. The plus-sized tankini is both a swimsuit and a full-coverage top, so you can skip a cover-up top if you'd like. Designed to be worn by all body types, the tankini is a must-have for any summer wardrobe. Pair your classic plus-sized tankini top with a plus size swim skirt for even more coverage.
Your plus-size tankini is the perfect choice for both swimming and lounging. The tankini is a great option for a secure top that can keep you feeling secure during your fun-in-the-sun activities, but also provide the coverage and security you want for out-of-the-water activities. You can easily throw on a maxi skirt, or wrap a sarong around your waist and your swimsuit top instantly transforms into an adorable and wearable top half of your beachy, but full-coverage outfit.
The Bikini Breakdown
Alternatively, you may want to get some more sun on your skin with a little less coverage. This is where your plus-size bikini comes in. A plus-size bikini style swimsuit top is perfect for catching a few rays while still feeling perfectly comfortable and secure in your swimsuit choice. A plus-sized bikini is a great choice for minimizing tan lines. Many bikini tops come with removable or adjustable straps for this reason. Lounge and sunbathe in style this summer.
High-waisted ruched bottoms are very in right now, and for good reason. High-waisted bikini bottoms are also a fantastic pairing for a plus-size bikini top. These retro 1950’s swimsuit-inspired bottoms can provide full-coverage comfort while giving your swimwear look a whole vintage chic vibe. Pair the look with a fun silky cover-up, a pair of mules and some fun, oversized retro-inspired cat-eyed sunglasses to really catch the vibe of this trend.
How to Choose the Perfect Swim Top for You
The tankini is essentially a bikini with extra fabric across the mid-section for additional coverage. You can choose a more performance-style tankini, such as one with a racerback cut, for water sports and swimming, or you can go with a camisole-style that fits like a cute tank top. It's perfect for wearing out after the beach or pool. It's a shirt that you can swim in.
The bikini is more of a bra-style swim top. Frequently these tops will have underwire and may often have removable straps to switch up the look or fit and to reduce tan lines. If the bikini top is more your swimwear style, you may also want to consider bringing a plus size swim coverup or something like a maxi-dress with you, as a bikini cannot double as a shirt, like the tankini can. In short, coverage is the main difference here and it all comes down to what your personal preferences are. What is your coverage comfort level?
We also don’t believe that you absolutely must choose one over the other! Some days you may feel like showing some skin at the beach and want to flaunt your bikini body. Other times, you may wake up ready for a day of fun in the sun and just feel like you want a little more coverage to be comfortable. This summer, treat yourself to two swim tops and give yourself the option to choose depending on your mood or the activities of the day. Try not to overthink it and don’t forget your sunscreen!