The bandeau style dates back to the mid 1900's as an attractive and highly innovative style of swimwear. Prior to using a bandeau for swimwear, it was used to suppress the bust to conform the boyish body style that fit with the trend of the time.
The word "bandeau" is the French word for band, like headband. The structure of bandeau swimwear started out quite simple since the top was just a simple elasticised band that wrapped around a woman's bust. Today, bandeau swimwear has evolved to include many features that suit a number of body shapes and styles.
Original Bandeau Swimwear
The original bandeau is a narrow tube that fits over the bust and can either be one complete piece or have fasteners in the front or at the back. Since many of the original swimwear tops were not created for support, they are not recommended for women with a larger bust but would work beautifully with a smaller bust.
Another lovely style that's available is a bandeau swimwear top with a twist in the front. This twist adds great shape to the bust and works well with any body type.
Halter Bandeau Swimwear
One of the great alternatives to bandeau swimwear is the halter strap. This style became very popular during the 1970's and is still going strong with many women today. You have the option to keep a halter strap or simple take it off when you feel like going strapless. The halter strap is great for a larger bust since it provides just enough support and comfort for fun in the hot sun. The halter straps vary in style with ties, twist around the neck or just pull over your head for ease of use.
Bandeau Bikini Swimwear
With so many options available, bandeau swimwear may also be designed like common strapped bikini tops because essentially a brassier is a bandeau with two straps, though most bandeau will have removable straps.
This strapped style is common with bikini swimwear, especially for women with a larger bust since it provides great support and comfort during all activities in the hot sun or even while playing in the water.
Play around with bandeau bikinis to see which style works best for you. Get a few different styles to interchange while lazing out on a beach, taking a dip in a pool or having fun with friends at a spa.
