Definition of

Bikini

Pink and white striped bikini on the sand, next to seashell

The bikini is a two-piece female swimsuit.

A bikini is a female swimsuit that consists of two pieces : a panty (or panties ) and a bra (or bra ). The Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) also accepts the term bikini .

History

The origin of the bikini is linked to Bikini Atoll , which is part of the Marshall Islands and is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The French engineer Louis Réard was the one who created this garment in 1946 and named it this way taking into account that it was an explosive design (due to its impact) and that tests with nuclear bombs were being carried out on the aforementioned atoll.

Beyond Réard 's invention, there is evidence of the use of two-piece garments for the development of sports and athletic activities since pre-Roman times. Regarding the modern bikini, it is important to mention that at first it caused great controversy since it left a good part of the woman's body exposed. Little by little, models and actresses were encouraged to wear it and thus its use spread.

Classification

There are multiple types of bikinis. If the two pieces are joined by a narrow strap in the front sector, it is called a trikini (or triquini ). When the panties (or panties) are replaced or covered with a small skirt, it is a skirtini . A bikini with smaller dimensions, which barely covers the intimate areas, is called a microbikini or microkini .

Let's see below some of the types of bikinis that can be found on the market , each with different levels of coverage, support and style:

  • classic bikini : also called triangle bikini , it is one of the most common styles. It consists of two triangles that cover the breasts and are joined at the back with strips or ties;
  • Bandeau bikini : has a top with a wide band that goes around the chest instead of using traditional triangles. It may offer a little more support and coverage;
  • halter bikini : characterized by having a top that ties around the neck, providing additional support and enhancing the shape of the bust ;
  • bandeau bikini – It is strapless and fits around the chest with an elastic band. It's great for preventing tan lines, but may not provide enough support for women with larger busts;
  • High-waisted bikini : Also known as retro or vintage , it has a high-waisted bottom that covers the navel and reaches the waist. It is a popular option for those who prefer more coverage in the abdomen area;
  • low-rise bikini : unlike the previous one, this style has a bottom that sits below the navel. It is more revealing and is usually associated with a more modern and sensual look.

Revealing garment

The bikini is a garment that even today not all women feel comfortable wearing since, given its revealing nature, it requires great self-confidence . Body acceptance problems are widespread, especially in adolescents and young people, and this leads them to look for clothes that hide those "defects" that embarrass them the most.

Woman in bikini on a pier

Wearing a bikini requires acceptance of one's own body.

The problem with the bikini is that it covers a tiny percentage of the body, leaving almost all the areas that are usually a reason for lack of confidence exposed, such as the abdomen and legs. One of its advantages over full mesh is that it allows an almost total tan and causes less heat.

It is important to mention that the bikini (or, in Argentina , the bikini) is not only used on beaches and swimming pools . In sports such as beach volleyball and athletics , female competitors are allowed to wear bikinis.