Before I found out what tankinis really are, I used to shy away from them. Tons of women prefer this women’s mix & match style over bikinis. I know that many also don’t know what a tankini is: basically a tankini is a combination of a tank top and a bikini bottom. Right, now that’s understood. Tankinis are perfect for those who want to show off their form (and lovely legs) but do not want to show too much skin. It’s just a more conservative, more family friendly, mix & match version of the bikini. I must admit though, that I have one pair hiding somewhere in the closet for any swim trip that involves families like reunions or get-togethers with friends who have kids. It’s safer to wear when there is quite a high risk of a toddler grabbing at your swimwear, and it also stays put when I’m horsing around during play with my nephews and nieces. When buying tankinis, my suggestion would be not to fall too much into the dowdy trap, as most tankinis (admit it!) tend to look quite matronly with floral prints, unflattering cuts and just over-all dated designs. So, shop around for something that doesn’t have such wide straps, hugs close to the body, features elegant designs (when in doubt, go plain) and has an interesting detail. Here are some of my best picks: This brown Merona tankini (Catalog #: 13369580) is such a bargain and good value at $19.54 (15% discount), that’s super hard to beat. It’s a chocolate brown shade, a V neck tankini with a halter top that is bordered by gold sequins on either side. It’s partially lined and the swimwear material is made from 82% nylon and 18% spandex. I’ve seen it on an online catalog and was planning on giving it as a gift to my sister in law. Personally I think this will suit women of all ages. As one customer who purchased it puts it: “This item is a great fit and flattering for my 50 plus age. I generally am a small but ordered this in a medium and love the neckline and the summery brown color. A very good deal and I am more than satisfied.” Okay now this next one is probably one of the best selling tankinis out there given the publicity that the brand is getting from celebrities. This Spanx woven tankini top (available in rouge and sapphire, item 0431951505663) is something I wouldn’t mind wearing myself, and it’s not such a wallet buster with the sale price tag of only $63.99. Famously known for keeping unwanted bulges under control, Spanx does just that with this tankini. The bodice features a woven pattern which gives the look an interesting detail, while from the bodice down the fabric falls down in a semi-loose, fluid way which covers up any flab. The cups are contoured and fully lined, plus the tank features convertible straps which makes it flexible in terms of styling. It’s 72% nylon and 28% spandex. The tankini bottom with a mid-rise waistband is sold separately at $38.99. Now this last one is probably my favorite tankini, because of all the tiny ruching that keeps any flabs well camouflaged. This Tommy Bahama “Pearl” tankini top in Galaxy Blue (not available in any other colors, item #365402) comes with detachable straps and a sweetheart neckline. Made with a Nylon and Spandex combination material, the tankini top is lined as well. The top retails at $94.00 while the cute twist front hipster bikini bottom is sold separately at $49.00. Depending on my mood this 2011, I might actually buy another pair of tankini. While browsing around online shops for tankinis I saw a lot of new models that would give my bikinis a run for their money. Now, if only I could squeeze in more time off from work to hit the beach it would be perfect…