A monokini is a one-piece swimsuit that shows as much skin as a bikini through cut-outs, open sides, a plunging front or a thong back. The top and bottom stay connected, usually by side panels, straps or a center strip, which is what separates it from a two-piece. Today the word covers everything from a cut-out one-piece you could wear at a resort pool to a sling-style piece built for the stage.
What is a monokini?
The original 1964 monokini was a topless swimsuit: a bottom held up by shoulder straps. The design that stuck is the modern version, a one-piece with sections removed. Most monokinis keep a bikini-style top and bottom. The fabric connects itself with fabric or straps at the waist, ribs or center front.
The Femme X monokinis in our Monokinis collection are one size, made from a 94% polyester, 6% spandex stretch fabric, and designed for the beach, the pool deck and performance rather than swimming laps. They are curated by FemmeBasics for women who want a one-piece that reads as boldly as a micro bikini.
Monokini styles
Cut-out monokini
Cut our monokini’s are the most wearable version. You will notice that the fabric is removed at the waist, ribs or hips, leaving the front and back intact. The torso is framed rather than exposed, which is what makes style the most appealing for women going to a public beach or resort. The Femme X Monokini Printed Flag is the printed option in this group, a one-piece monokini with a USA flag print.
Thong monokini
A thong monokini is a one-piece thong swimsuit: full or partial front coverage with a thong back. This is the search most people mean by “one piece thong swimsuit.” The back leaves the seat open, the front stays connected to the top, and the leg is usually cut high. It gives the type of tan lines that you would get from a thong bikini with the security of a single piece.
High-cut monokini
For this piece, the leg opening rises above the hip bone, which lengthens the leg line. It is often paired with a plunge front. The Femme X Monokini & Top Set uses a high cut silhouette and ships with a matching top, so you can wear the monokini alone or layered.
Sling monokini
A sling monokini offers two narrow strips that run from the shoulders down the front, over the crotch and back up, with nothing else. This is the least coverage a one-piece can have. Sling monokinis are photo and private-pool pieces; they are not made to swim in and most public beaches will not allow them.
Mesh and sheer monokini
A mesh and sheer monokini is a one piece with mesh panels or a sheer body. Our Femme X Micro Sheer Bodysuit is listed as a bodysuit but is built as a minimal cut monokini with mesh details. The piece comes in one size and colors including black fishnet, coral mesh, lime mesh and mirror finishes. Mesh becomes more transparent when wet, so plan for a pool party or a shoot rather than a swim.
Mirror monokini
A mirror or holographic surface of a mirror monokini reflects light and photographs as metallic. These sit on the border between swimwear and festival wear. The same Femme X pieces appear in Rave Outfits and Exotic Dancewear because dancers and festival goers buy them for the shine, not the water.
Who does a monokini suit?
Nobody needs a specific body type for a one-piece, but the cut you choose changes what is emphasized.
A cut out at the waist draws the eye to the narrowest point of the torso and works on most shapes. A high-cut leg lengthens shorter legs. A plunge front suits a smaller bust that does not need a supportive cup. Fuller busts usually do better with a monokini that has wider straps or a scoop neck. A thong back is a coverage choice, not a size choice; it works on any body that wants it.
The one size fit on Femme X swim relies on stretch and, where present, ties. It fits a wide middle range. It does not replace real size options, so if you normally shop at the ends of the size chart, read the product notes and consider a two-piece with tie sides from our Micro Bikinis. You can adjust independently top and bottom.
How to wear a monokini
On the beach, a cut out or high cut monokini works on its own with a sarong or open shirt for walking to and from the water. Thong and sling styles belong at a private pool, a resort that allows them, or a shoot.
Off the beach, a monokini doubles as a bodysuit. A cut out monokini in a solid color under high waist trousers or a wrap skirt reads as a going out top. Mirror versions are festival staples over shorts or a mesh skirt. Dancers layer a mirror monokini under a two-piece so the reveal is planned.
Fit tips
Torso length matters more than the dress size. If the shoulder straps pull tight and the crotch rides up, the piece is too short for your torso. On tie styles, tie the neck last and use it to set how low the front sits. On thong and high cut styles, pull the leg opening up onto the hip bone before you look in the mirror; the piece is designed to sit there.
Care
In order to take the upmost care of the fabric, rinse in cold water after salt or chlorine. Wash by hand with mild soap. Lay flat to dry. Mirror finish pieces must stay away from dryers, irons and direct heat; the coating sits on the surface of the fabric and will crack.
Quick answers
What is the difference between a monokini and a one-piece swimsuit?
A one-piece covers the torso fully. A monokini is a one piece with sections removed. Whether it is cut outs at the waist, open sides, a plunge front or a thong back. The goal is to show as much skin as a bikini while staying connected.
What is a thong monokini?
A thong monokini is a one-piece swimsuit with a thong back. The front and top stay connected and the seat is left open.
Can you swim in a monokini?
Cut out and high cut monokinis in stretch fabric hold up for casual swimming. Sling, sheer and mirror styles are made for lounging, photos and performance and should be kept out of chlorine and heavy wear.