When it comes to swimwear, versatility and comfort are key. Enter the tankini swimsuit, a style that blends the best of both worlds – the coverage of a one-piece and the freedom of a bikini.
For swimwear brands, the tankini has evolved from being a modest alternative to a high-margin powerhouse. It bridges the gap between the exposure of a bikini and the coverage of a one-piece, offering a unique value proposition that appeals to a broad demographic—from active Gen Z surfers to style-conscious mothers.
However, designing a tankini that sells isn’t just about adding length to a bikini top. It requires a mastery of fit, an understanding of diverse body shapes, and a keen eye for technical construction.
This guide is your blueprint for navigating the tankini renaissance, ensuring your next collection captures this growing market share with products that flatter, function, and fly off the shelves.
What is a Tankini?
A tankini swimsuit is essentially a two-piece swimsuit that offers more coverage than a traditional bikini. It features a tank top paired with bikini bottoms, making it a popular choice for those who want to avoid the full coverage of a one-piece but still prefer a more modest look than a bikini.
First introduced in the late 1990s by designer Anne Cole, it was a revolutionary concept that solved a specific consumer pain point: the “bathroom dilemma” of the one-piece suit.
But for the modern designer, the definition has evolved. The tankini is a hybrid garment. It offers the torso coverage and sun protection of a maillot with the sizing flexibility of separates.
This “mix-and-match” capability is crucial from a merchandising perspective. It allows customers to pair a Size M top with a Size L bottom, solving a fit issue that plagues 60% of women who buy one-piece suits.
For brands, this means fewer returns due to fit issues and a happier customer base.
Different Tankini Styles for Every Body Shape
When designing or choosing tankinis for your swimwear brand, it’s important to understand that one size or style doesn’t fit all. The beauty of tankinis is their versatility, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of body shapes and sizes.
High-Waisted Tankinis
High-waisted bottoms are a staple in tankini collections because they offer great tummy control and create a flattering silhouette. This style works especially well for those who want to highlight their waistline while maintaining coverage.
It’s perfect for brands that cater to the vintage-inspired swimwear trend, offering a nod to retro fashion with a modern twist.
Sports Tankinis
Designed for active beachgoers or those who want a more athletic style, sports tankinis offer more support and coverage. These designs often feature racerback straps, high-neck tops, and durable materials, making them perfect for swimming, beach volleyball, or even surf activities.
Athletic swimwear continues to gain popularity as more consumers are looking for swimsuits that combine performance and style.
Plus-Size Tankinis
Tankinis are a favorite among plus-size swimmers because they provide comfort, coverage, and style. Brands catering to the plus-size market can highlight tankinis with draped fabric, adjustable straps, and strategic cutouts to create a flattering fit for fuller figures.
Plus-size consumers are increasingly seeking options that offer both fashion and function, making tankinis a must-have in your collection.
Bandeau Tankinis
For a sleek and strapless look, the bandeau tankini is an excellent choice. This style typically features a strapless top that fits snugly around the bust, creating a smooth, clean line. Bandeau tankinis are great for those who want a bit of sun exposure while maintaining the coverage of a two-piece swimsuit.
They often come with removable straps for added versatility, making them a popular choice for beach vacations and resort-style collections.
Halter Tankinis
The halter tankini features a top with straps that tie behind the neck, offering both comfort and support. This style is perfect for those who want more lift and support in the bust area, as the halter neck design helps provide additional structure. Halter tankinis also offer a flattering neckline, making them an attractive option for customers looking for both style and functionality.
Shorts Tankini Swimsuit
For those who prefer more coverage on the bottom half, the shorts tankini swimsuit is a great option. Instead of the traditional bikini bottom, this style features shorts that offer more leg coverage, making it an ideal choice for those who want to feel comfortable and confident at the beach or pool.
The shorts tankini works well for active individuals or anyone who prefers a more modest and sporty look.
Tankini Materials
The difference between a luxury tankini and a “fast fashion” failure often lies in the fabric. Because tankinis involve more fabric than bikinis, the quality is immediately palpable to the consumer.
Fabrics:
The gold standard is a Nylon/Spandex (Elastane) blend.
Look for a ratio of at least 80% Nylon to 20% Spandex. This ensures the garment has enough stretch to be comfortable but enough recovery (snap-back) to hold the body in. Polyester/Spandex blends are a durable alternative, particularly for chlorine resistance.
Weight (GSM):
For tankinis, aim for a fabric weight between 190-220 GSM. Anything lighter risks being see-through when wet or clinging unflatteringly to the body.
Texture:
Textured fabrics are a massive trend. Ribbed, seersucker, pique, and jacquard fabrics add surface interest and are more forgiving on the body than flat, shiny lycra. They hide imperfections and elevate the garment’s perceived quality.
Lining:
Never skimp on lining. A full front lining is mandatory. For tummy control SKUs, consider using Power Mesh—a firm, supportive netting that smooths the midsection without restricting breathing.
Design Elements to Consider for Tankinis
When designing tankinis for your swimwear brand, it’s important to balance fashion-forward elements with functionality. Here are some design features to consider:
Internal Support:
A tankini is only as good as its bra. Options include:
- Floating Shelf Bra: Good for smaller busts and relaxed styles.
- Sewn-in Cups: Prevents pads from migrating during the wash.
- Hidden Underwire: The premium choice for support.
Adjustability:
Since torsos vary in length, adjustable shoulder straps are non-negotiable. Side-tie drawstrings (ruching) are also excellent, allowing the customer to adjust the length of the top and the amount of coverage over the hips.
The “Gap” Factor:
A common design flaw is a tankini top that is too short, leaving an awkward gap of skin above the bikini bottom. Ensure your grading allows for sufficient overlap (at least 2 inches) to accommodate movement.
Tankini Trends: What’s Popular in 2026
The tankini market is continuously evolving, with changing fashion preferences, materials, and consumer expectations. In 2026, some of the biggest trends we’re seeing in tankinis include:
- Retro Florals & Ginghams: Nostalgia is driving prints. Think 70s oversized flowers and 50s gingham checks.
- Hardware Details: Gold rings, tortoiseshell buckles, and front clasps add a touch of jewelry-like luxury to the swimwear.
- Athleisure Influence: More tankinis are being designed with an athletic aesthetic, combining performance fabrics and functional details for active swimmers.
- Sustainable Stories: Using recycled fibers like ECONYL® (made from ocean waste) is a powerful marketing tool that resonates deeply with the ocean-loving swimwear demographic.
Conclusion
Creating a best-selling tankini collection requires a delicate balance of fashion-forward design and rigorous technical engineering. From sourcing the perfect high-GSM ribbed fabric to perfecting the grade rules for a size inclusive range, every detail matters.
If you are a brand looking to expand your swimwear line or a designer seeking to refine your production quality, you don’t have to navigate these waters alone.
We specialize in helping brands develop authentic, high-quality swimwear. Whether you need assistance with tech pack creation, sustainable fabric sourcing, or full-scale manufacturing, our team has the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to discuss your next collection and let’s create swimwear that makes every body feel beautiful.
