The tankini is igniting social media debate over modesty at the beach.
For some, tankinis are reminiscent of being a preteen: A bikini bottom or shorts paired with what is essentially a waterproof crop top was often the first graduation from the one-pieces of childhood to swimming in a two-piece. Or perhaps they were the performance swimsuit you remember your mom or guardian wearing, the front swath of fabric adding extra coverage targeted for people with post-birth or pregnant bellies.
Either way, the tankini has gotten a revamp in 2025, with popular retailers from ASOS to Cupshe marketing these tummy-covering two pieces to some shoppers who likely haven't worn one since the summer before seventh grade. These upgraded tankinis offer refreshed color palettes and not-so-boxy designs, but don't totally skimp on the style with unexpected cut-outs and cute patterns that paired seamlessly with a skirt or shorts.
But the tankini takeover has prompted some social media users to wonder if the resurgence is as innocuous as pure 2000s nostalgia, or whether it's a totem of a cultural shift that wants women to cover-up.
"I don't know if the modesty propaganda is working on me or if they're actually just making cute tankinis this year," one TikToker mused. "Every ad I've seen for tankini, is the cutest tankini I've ever seen and I must have it. Am I going to be wearing tankinis all summer? Is it working?"
