AVANTI MODA AVANTI MODA 2020 SWIMWEAR ISSUE | Page 14

The Evolution of the Bikini

A Microkini is an extremely tiny bikini that typically uses just enough fabric to cover the genitals and nipples. Any additional strings or straps are simply there to keep the swimsuit attached to the wearer's body. Some types of the Microkinis use an adhesive or wire to hold the fabric in place over the genitals. These styles of bikinis keep the wearer just inside the legal limits of decency and fill a niche for people who want to be as close to completely nude as possible.

A Monokini is a women's one-piece swimsuit that is basically just the bottom portion of a bikini. The term is used for any type of topless swimsuit. The most common modern version of the Monokini is the thong; the barely-there bottom that literally has a string or incredibly thin piece of fabric that rests between the buttocks cheeks to hold the front part of the suit to the wearer.

A Bandeaukini (also called a Bandini) is a bandeau top that has no straps or stings to hold up the top over the shoulders of the wearer. It is the oldest style of bikini, dating back to 4th century in Sicily. Reintroduced in the mid 60s and early 70s, it quickly became popular among younger women.

sizes. There is truly a Bikini style for every personality or body type under the sun. Here we examine some of the most popular adaptations of the Bikini currently available in today’s swimwear marketplace.

Nowadays, Bikinis come in all different shapes and

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