Few of you probably know that the monokini has somewhat of a scandalous nature because the original monokini intentionally leaves the breasts bare. It is also sometimes referred to as a unikini, which is essentially just another term for ‘topless’. I have never actually seen anyone wear the original version of the monokini as the designer Rudi Gernreich intended it to be, as if a one piece swimsuit was cut in half at the waist, with halter straps holding it up between the breasts. It is quite bizarre, and although it caused a buzz and women actually bought monokinis in the 60’s, few actually wore them.
Fast forward to present – the monokini swimsuit has taken on a new form and it now loosely applies to one piece swimsuits that leave the belly area semi-bare. You see a lot of these suits being worn by women now, and in some cases it comes out sexier (weird, eh?) and yet a bit more conservative than bikinis. I haven’t actually owned a monokini but my cousin insists that I get one just to shake things up, especially for our trip to the Caribbean in a few months’ time. Will you help me decide which one to get?
Among the three monokinis that I’ve shortlisted, this one is the safest bet. In my mind, there is a raging debate: play it safe or take it up a notch? I’m trying out something new, why not make it drastically new? But then again, this is my first foray into the monokini territory, so why not take baby steps? This Victoria’s Secret cut out monokini in black (#269-668) is absolutely stunning and the cuts are all in the right places that it still looks very classy. It is a sexy, deep V monokini swimsuit that ties at the neck and back so that from behind, it looks as if i’m wearing a two piece. One cutout at the front is right in the middle, and dips low in front that the bellybutton is exposed. There are also cutouts on the sides, scooping inward, giving the illusion of an even narrower waist. A piece of string connects the two ruffled cups, super duper sexy. Originally affordable at $58, it is now at a jaw-dropping clearance bargain at $19.99; also available in sexy little pink.
From a no-brainer bargain, we move on to mind boggling expensive. Mind you this is already on sale but when I reveal the price in the end, you’re still gonna wonder how such a miniscule amount of fabric can command such a high price. Two words: Herve Leger. Famous for bandage dresses, Herve Leger now has bandage swimsuits. This cutout one-piece monokini swimsuit (NMF12_T3B6J) in off-white has a low Queen Anne neckline, a cutout, and a crisscross midriff that bares the navel. The material is made from a polyester, nylon and spandex combination which molds to the body—well, like bandage. Originally at $890.00 (gulp!), it is now at $311.00 (I couldn’t bring myself to say ‘only’). I guess since we’re staying at a high end resort, I better think about buying high-end swimwear…
Now this, I’m almost sure I’m going to buy whatever happens. A one-shoulder black monokini swimsuit from Victoria’s Secret (#266-635), originally at $98, now at $73. It’s asymmetrical with multiple bead detailing running along the right breast all the way to the left shoulder. There is a thin sliver of fabric connecting the top part to the bottom, located at the left waist which bares practically the whole abdomen much like a two piece would. In the back, it has modest coverage and a clasp with a VS gold tone logo on it, which I think is a nice subtle touch. The material is a nylon/Lycra combination, and is fully lined with light, removable padding. I’m pretty sure that this item will be mine even before this day ends.
So what do you think about my choices? These beautiful monokini swimsuits have made you think about giving them a try yourself! With choices ranging from the super budget to high fashion, you could definitely find something that suits your budget and taste. Throw away that last shred of caution and do it!