What Is A Monokini? Learn How To Rock A Unique Swim Look
The monokini, a one-piece/bikini hybrid, offers beachgoers the best of both worlds: selective support and coverage with styles that stand in a category all their own.
From its radical beginnings to its modern mystique, the monokini has captivated beachgoers with one-of-a-kind designs and uniquely flattering styles for years.
But what is a monokini swimsuit, exactly?
Part of what makes the monokini so appealing is its indefinability—while it’s generally known as a one-piece suit with bikini-like cutouts, it encompasses a wealth of original styles that don’t fit neatly into any one box.
Read on to learn more about the monokini’s fascinating origins and impact on swimwear fashion. Then, explore a sampling of the diverse styles within this category. By the end, I expect you to be fully on board with the monokini mission!
What is a Monokini Swimsuit?
Monokinis are one-piece swimsuits typically featuring cutouts that evoke the look and feel of a bikini. As fellow monokini lovers know, this unique style fusion has a lot to offer.
The first monokini was designed in 1964 by Austrian-American fashion revolutionary (and famed thong inventor) Rudi Gernreich.
Rather than the one-piece/bikini hybrid seen today, Gernreich’s monokinis were topless suits that covered the lower body, with straps starting below the bust and wrapping over the shoulders. Radical, right?
He initially intended for the design to function more as a political statement against patriarchal fashion standards than a commercially successful swimwear option. But of course, that’s exactly what it became.
While the modern monokini doesn’t reveal all, it still embodies the originality and versatility of those early statement pieces. You can find monokinis in all shapes and styles, from subtle cutouts to free-flow asymmetrical looks, offering full to barely-there coverage.
Odds are if you can dream it, you can find it as a monokini.
What Body Type is a Monkini For?
Monokinis have range, meaning you can find styles to flatter any body type. That said, the people who may feel particularly drawn to this diverse category include:
- Swimwear savants – The monokini’s intrinsic originality appeals to women who want to flaunt their fashion taste and drip with personality.
- Lovers of asymmetry – Many monokini styles feature novel asymmetrical designs. If you favor a shoulder or a hip, you can find a monokini that showcases it.
- Selective coverage queens – Monokinis allow you to show as much skin as your heart desires, whether you want almost everything on display or a few tasteful patches.
Since this category spans so many styles, you may have a monokini in your swimwear wardrobe and not even realize it. But if you want to consciously seek them out, I have plenty of iconic options for you to try.
7 Fun and Unique Monokinis for Every Body
Padding, underwire, full coverage, skimpy thongs—monokinis come in all styles and levels of support. Find your next swimwear statement piece on this list of monokini must-haves.
-
Beach Riot
Joyce One Piece
One-piece
1 / 2No longer availableThe asymmetrical cut of this Beach Riot monokini encourages every wearer to pop a hip and strike a pose. It features a one-shoulder neckline, moderate coverage, and a flirty cutout that wraps around the waist.
The color block paneling traces the flowing lines of your silhouette, accentuating and enhancing your natural figure. This suit currently comes in ten eye-catching colorways, ranging from pastel candy hues to black-and-white contrasts.
-
Hunza G
Jerry Swim
One-piece
1 / 2Pretty woman, walking down the street… Hunza G has reimagined the iconic Julia Roberts silhouette for the modern beachgoer. This strapless monokini features a bandeau-style top and cheeky, high-waisted bottoms connected at the midline by a ring.
You can practically hear this monokini saying, “You remember me?” Passing on it would be a big mistake. Huge!
-
Monday Swimwear
St. Barth's One Piece
One-piece
1 / 2No longer availableAnother unique asymmetrical look, The St. Barth’s One Piece from Monday Swimwear creates ample space to show off your sunkissed skin with its dramatic V-neckline, large midriff cutout, and ring detail at the waist. The suit also offers moderate coverage and an adjustable back tie closure.
-
Agent Provocateur
Davine Swimsuit
One-piece
1 / 2Agent Provocateur has several stunning monokini looks—like this one—inspired by their sexy and seductive lingerie collections.
The Davine instantly draws attention thanks to its unique neckline created by linking metallic rings. The ring detailing extends down the chest and across the stomach, creating concentric cutouts that accentuate the bust and waist.
It’s hard to believe, but the back of this monokini leaves as deep of an impression as the front. It features more ring detailing and an intricate corset closure, weaving a web sure to snag awestruck looks and endless compliments. -
Montce
Heidi Floral Petal Variation One-Piece w/ Lace
One-piece
1 / 2Take a dip in frills and lace like the coquette girls intended with this monokini from Montce.
The balconette-style petal top transitions seamlessly into the cheeky, French-cut bottoms with a panel of delicate lace connecting them. With bow-tied shoulder straps, side ties, and a dainty floral pattern, this suit is the stuff of every girl’s dreams.
-
Vix Paula Hermanny
Firenze Gi One-Piece
One-piece
1 / 2No longer availableWhat is a monokini’s key feature? Cutouts. And this suit has quite a few.
The Firenze Gi showcases Brazilian designer Paula Hermanny’s refined take on contrast. Its white triangle cups, joined by a fine black string, sculpt a clean plunge neckline. A precise midsection cut-out flows seamlessly into a high-waisted bottom, offering signature Brazilian coverage with modern elegance.
-
Sommer Swim
Bonita One-Piece Swimsuit
One-piece
1 / 2We’ve seen edge, lace, and retro—now, get ready to lavish in luxury with the Bonita from Sommer Swim.
A sculptural midriff cut-out draws focus, while a single-shoulder silhouette — punctuated by a subtle gold accent — lends asymmetrical elegance.
Offered in rich hues and prints, it’s the kind of piece that speaks of sun-drenched days and understated affluence.
Make Waves in a Monokini on Your Next Getaway
Ready to sprinkle some monokini magic on your swimwear wardrobe? Shop the beach-ready looks here. Or discover more suit styles that may suit your fancy, like the tankini or the micro bikini. We’ve curated them all just for you.
