The Thong Bikini: A Cultural and Fashion Analysis

Introduction: The Enduring Allure of the Thong Bikini

The thong bikini, a garment characterized by its minimal coverage, particularly at the rear, is designed to expose more of the buttocks than traditional swimwear.¹ It is often described as offering a “cheeky coverage” ¹ and stands distinct from full-coverage brief bottoms. Its design typically incorporates string-style ties, small triangular fabric sections, high cuts, and ultra-low rises, aiming to reveal as much skin as possible.³ Beyond its function as mere swimwear, the thong bikini serves as a bold statement of confidence and personal style.¹

From its controversial beginnings to its current status as a fashion staple, the thong bikini has undergone a complex evolution, reflecting broader shifts in societal attitudes toward the body, modesty, and individual expression.⁴ It has oscillated between being considered taboo and being widely celebrated, frequently pushing boundaries and sparking public debate.⁵ The continued presence of this garment in popular culture and fashion signifies its deep and lasting cultural resonance.

The minimal amount of fabric that constitutes a thong bikini has consistently generated significant public discussion and cultural shifts.⁴ This suggests that the garment’s impact on society is disproportionate to its physical size. The attention it garners is not merely about what it covers, but profoundly about what it reveals and, more importantly, what it represents in terms of evolving social norms around sexuality, body image, and individual freedom. This dynamic makes the thong bikini a compelling lens through which to examine the progression of societal values, illustrating how even seemingly minor fashion choices can become focal points for broader cultural conversations.

A Historical Thread: From Ancient Loincloths to Modern Swimwear

The concept of minimal coverage, which defines the thong, is not a modern invention; it echoes ancient garments such as loincloths.⁸ These rudimentary garments emerged as practical solutions for early civilizations in warm climates.⁸ Ancient Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Indigenous cultures across Africa fashioned rectangular cloths, often made from animal skin or woven fabric, which were secured at the waist and tailored between the legs. This design allowed for freedom of movement while maintaining modesty and minimal coverage.⁸ Similar functional garments were also employed by Pre-Columbian Peruvian cultures, such as the Chavín, and by societies in Polynesia and Micronesia.⁸ In Japan’s Edo period (1603–1868), the

fundoshi, a loincloth typically made from recycled cotton, gained prominence. It was worn for work, festivals, and rituals, embodying a traditional, minimal garment deeply embedded in cultural identity and craftsmanship.⁸ The term “thong” itself has ancient linguistic roots, deriving from the Old English word “twong,” meaning a leather cord that could be tightened or loosened.⁹

The modern thong’s journey into public consciousness began in 1939, when New York Mayor Fiorello La Guardia mandated that nude dancers at the World’s Fair cover their private parts.⁵ In response, designers created tiny fabric pieces with thin straps and small pouches, effectively laying the groundwork for the modern thong. This innovative solution quickly became the standard attire for strippers ⁸, marking an early association of the garment with performance and specific social regulations. Following World War II, in 1946, Frederick’s of Hollywood introduced French-style black lingerie, including the thong, to the U.S. market, where it was considered among the “naughtiest of items”.⁹ This period reflected a societal desire for women to attract men returning from battle, highlighting a broader shift in social dynamics.⁹

The emergence and popularization of the thong were, in part, a direct consequence of external regulations. The mayoral order at the 1939 World’s Fair and California’s 1974 ban on nude sunbathing ⁸ illustrate how external constraints, rather than stifling expression, can paradoxically act as catalysts for radical fashion evolution. These restrictions compelled designers and performers to innovate, leading to the creation and adoption of the thong, a garment that offered minimal coverage while technically adhering to the new rules. This demonstrates how societal limitations can push boundaries in unforeseen ways, resulting in novel and often more revealing designs.

A significant boost to the thong’s popularity occurred in 1974 when designer Rudi Gernreich created the first modern thong bikini.⁵ This design was a direct response to California legislation outlawing nude sunbathing, with Gernreich aiming to provide coverage while still offering a “birthday suit-feel”.⁸ Gernreich, known for challenging social norms, had previously introduced the topless “monokini” in 1964, which established a foundation for the modern thong’s design philosophy.⁸

While Gernreich introduced the thong in the U.S., Brazil played a pivotal role in giving the style global appeal.⁸ In the 1980s, Brazilian beaches popularized the “tanga” and “fio dental” (literally, “dental floss”) bikinis, renowned for their ultra-minimal coverage and bold style.³ These swimwear styles emphasized body confidence and sensuality, inspiring designers worldwide to adapt the Brazilian thong into both swimwear and lingerie collections.³ This influence also sparked the trend of deliberately exposed thong waistbands on beaches and in fashion.⁸

Despite initial “cultural resistance” ⁹, the “bad-girl stigma began to wane in the mid-1990s” as thongs gained high-voltage exposure in music videos, glossy fashion magazines, and Victoria’s Secret catalogues.⁸ The 1980s saw thong swimwear become widely popular through TV shows like “Baywatch,” where many women were depicted wearing thong swimsuits.⁹ Frederick’s of Hollywood also began selling thongs in 1980.⁵ By the 1990s, thong underwear entered the mainstream, marketed as a practical undergarment to wear with slim-fit jeans to prevent visible panty lines (VPL).¹ The “whale tail” phenomenon, where thong waistbands peeked out above low-rise jeans, became a defining feature of early 2000s pop culture.⁶ Young female celebrities such as Britney Spears and Paris Hilton openly showcased their thongs, further normalizing their exposure.⁵ Sisqó’s “Thong Song” (1999) became a catchy anthem that cemented the thong’s place in mainstream music and popular culture.⁵ The Monica Lewinsky scandal in 1995, where she “flashed President Clinton the straps of her thong underwear,” garnered significant media attention and was used by some news media as a “metonym for smut,” transforming the image of a D.C. staffer into a “sexual temptress”.⁶

The thong’s historical trajectory offers a compelling illustration of its role as a barometer of societal shifts, particularly in the post-World War II era. Its introduction by Frederick’s of Hollywood in 1946, noted as “naughtiest” at the time, coincided with a period when “men were coming home from battle, and women were extremely anxious to attract them”.⁹ This emergence in a time of significant social upheaval and changing gender dynamics suggests a connection to evolving desires and female agency. The garment’s later mainstreaming in the 1990s, alongside growing discussions of “sexual liberation” ⁴, further solidifies its visible manifestation of evolving gender roles. Its initial “scandalous” nature and subsequent “bad-girl stigma” ⁹ reflect societal discomfort with overt female sexuality, which gradually yielded to broader acceptance as norms shifted. The thong bikini’s history, therefore, extends beyond mere fashion; it serves as a micro-narrative of female empowerment and the ongoing negotiation of public and private spheres within Western society.

Table 1: Key Milestones in Thong Bikini Evolution

Year	Event/Key Figure	Significance/Impact
1939	New York World’s Fair, Mayor La Guardia’s order	Dancers create minimal coverings, foreshadowing the modern thong.8
1946	Frederick’s of Hollywood	Introduces “naughtiest” French-style thongs to U.S. market, reflecting post-WWII desire for attraction.9
1974	Rudi Gernreich	Creates the first modern thong bikini in response to nude sunbathing bans, aiming for a “birthday suit-feel”.8
1980s	Brazilian Beaches	Popularize “tanga” and “fio dental” styles, giving the thong global appeal and emphasizing body confidence.3
1990s	Victoria’s Secret / Mainstream Adoption	Thong underwear becomes mainstream, sold for VPL avoidance; “bad-girl stigma” wanes.8
1995	Monica Lewinsky Scandal	Thong gains significant media attention, linked to “smut” and “sexual temptress” imagery.6
1999	Sisqó’s “Thong Song”	Further normalizes and popularizes the thong in mainstream culture.5
Early 2000s	Celebrity “Whale Tail” Trend	Young celebrities expose thongs with low-rise jeans, cementing its pop culture status.5

This table provides a clear, concise, and chronological overview of the thong bikini’s complex history, making it easier to grasp the timeline of its evolution. It highlights pivotal moments and key figures, allowing for quick identification of the factors (e.g., legislation, designer innovation, cultural shifts) that led to significant outcomes (e.g., mainstream adoption, controversy, global appeal). By summarizing the significance of each event, it reinforces the narrative of the thong’s journey from a niche, controversial item to a widespread fashion statement, demonstrating its dynamic relationship with societal norms.

Design and Diversity: Exploring Thong Bikini Styles and Materials

The thong bikini encompasses a wide array of designs, cuts, and materials, each contributing to its versatility and appeal. Thong bottoms are fundamentally designed for “minimal coverage” and to create the “cheekiest look,” often specifically chosen for tanning purposes.² Micro bikinis represent the extreme end of this spectrum, featuring “barely-there coverage” and intricate string detailing.³

Within the realm of classic and string styles, the G-string and V-string are notable for their ultra-minimalist construction, characterized by string bands and narrow fabric pieces. These designs are particularly effective at avoiding visible panty lines (VPL), making them ideal for wear under tight clothing.¹ The T-back thong also offers extensive rear exposure with its thin, T-shaped band.¹¹ For those seeking slightly more coverage without sacrificing the thong aesthetic, hybrid and moderate options exist. The “Cheeky” style, for instance, covers more of the buttocks than other thong types, providing a “peek at your cheeks” and often chosen for a “flirty mood”.¹¹ The “Tanga” thong features a thin strip of elastic between the legs and a triangular fabric piece near the top of the butt, typically 2 or 3 inches wider than a classic thong. This style often resembles Brazilian underwear and is known for enhancing curves.¹ Similarly, Brazilian-cut bottoms provide more front coverage than a traditional thong while maintaining a low-rise cut.² Waistline variations also contribute to the diversity of thong bikini styles. High-waisted thong bikinis are popular for their flattering, retro-inspired fit, which enhances the waistline and creates an hourglass effect, while offering slightly more midsection coverage.¹ Low-rise fits are also a common design choice.² Beyond the bottom piece, the overall bikini design allows for extensive customization through mixing and matching various top styles, such as triangle, halter, bandeau, and longline, with different bottom cuts (classic brief, high-leg, V-cut) to create personalized looks.² Monokinis, with their large cutouts, offer a fashion-forward one-piece option that still conveys bikini energy while providing more coverage.²

The initial design of the thong was driven by specific functional needs, such as minimally covering dancers while adhering to regulations ⁸ or providing a “birthday suit-feel” in response to nude sunbathing bans.⁸ Later, the benefit of preventing visible panty lines became a significant driver for thong underwear.¹ However, the subsequent evolution into “micro thongs” ⁷, “one-shoulder” designs ⁷, and the incorporation of “luxe materials” like velvet or leather ² demonstrates a clear progression where aesthetic appeal and fashion-forwardness began to shape design, often transcending pure utility. This illustrates how a utilitarian garment can be transformed into a powerful fashion statement, where its form becomes increasingly influenced by style, sensuality, and self-expression, rather than solely its original purpose.

Modern bikinis, including thongs, are predominantly crafted from synthetic fabrics like nylon, spandex (Lycra), and polyester.² These materials are highly valued for their “intense stretch, lightweight feel, and durability”.² Nylon is recognized for its stretch and breathability, allowing it to cling to the body for a form-fitting, clean silhouette.² Spandex, introduced by DuPont in the 1960s, revolutionized swimwear design by enabling the creation of tinier fabric pieces that fit “like a second skin” without heavy linings, and resist sagging or bagging.² A notable drawback of spandex is its degradation in chlorine.¹⁰ Polyester, an affordable plastic-based material, is favored for its ease of molding.²

While synthetics dominate, natural and blended fabrics are also utilized, particularly for thong underwear, with principles often applicable to swimwear. Cotton, for example, is a breathable, absorbent, lightweight, and easy-to-clean material that supports vaginal health.¹ Cotton-Spandex blends are used for everyday comfort.¹² Mesh material offers breathability and comfort, often used for dressier options.¹¹ Lace is a popular choice for alluring designs, available in various patterns and colors, including lace waistbands.¹¹ Viscose and Spandex blends, such as DreamEase, are described as “dreamily soft” and suitable for lounging.¹²

The thong’s primary benefit is often its “virtually invisible” nature under clothes ¹ or its “barely-there” feel.¹¹ However, the discussion of materials reveals a growing trend toward “sustainable thong bikinis made from recycled nylon and sustainable fabrics” ², including those using “low-impact fiber reactive dyes”.¹² This highlights a tension between the desire for minimal, often synthetic, and trend-driven fashion, and a growing consumer and industry awareness of environmental impact. The “invisible” garment now carries a “visible” ethical footprint, indicating that despite its small size, the thong bikini participates in the larger fashion industry’s pivot toward sustainability. This suggests that even the most revealing and trend-driven items are not immune to calls for ethical production and environmental responsibility.

Specialized and eco-friendly innovations are also emerging. DuraFit® Fabric, used for shaper thongs (underwear), is ultra-light and designed for tummy flattening and waist sculpting.¹¹ BreatheSoft is a patented ultra-lightweight, smooth microfiber nylon-Lycra spandex stretch knit that is quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and resistant to pilling and wrinkling.¹² Eco-friendly options are gaining traction, with sustainable thong bikinis made from recycled nylon, recycled plastics, bamboo, and other plant-based fibers.² Examples include SUPIMA® Cotton, which is responsibly grown and uses low-impact dyes, and ECO Rx™, made from TENCEL™ fibers, upcycled cotton, and REPREVE® Nylon from waste.¹² Beyond practical materials, novelty and luxe materials such as velvet, leather, crocheted squares, denim, and fur have been explored as alternative swimwear fabrics, though some may not be suitable for water activities.² Precious metals and jewels can also be incorporated into high-end designs.¹⁰ In terms of construction, bikinis are often manufactured by stretching fabric over a plastic mold and baking it to set the shape, and are typically lined to prevent transparency when wet.¹⁰ Seamless technology and laser-cut edges are employed to ensure no visible panty lines.¹¹

Table 2: Thong Bikini Styles and Their Distinct Features

Style Name	Key Design Features	Coverage Level	Primary Purpose/Benefit
G-String / V-String	String band, narrow crotch piece, string between butt cheeks (V-shape for V-string)	Ultra-minimal	Avoids VPL, ideal for tight clothing 1
Tanga	Thin elastic strip between legs, triangular fabric near top of butt (2-3 inches wider than classic)	Minimal to Cheeky	Enhances curves, resembles Brazilian style 1
Cheeky	Covers more of butt than other thongs, “peek at your cheeks”	Cheeky	Flirty mood, slightly more coverage 11
High-Waisted	Rises above belly button, high waistband	Varies (minimal to cheeky rear, more midsection front)	Retro look, enhances waistline, slimming effect 1
Micro Thong	Extremely little fabric, string ties, small triangle coverage, high cuts, ultra-low rises	Ultra-minimal	Smallest tan lines, expresses confidence/sensuality 3

This table serves to clarify the nuances among the various thong bikini styles, which might otherwise be confusing for a reader. It breaks down the subtle but important distinctions in cuts and coverage, providing practical guidance by outlining the primary purpose or benefit of each style (e.g., VPL avoidance, tanning, curve enhancement). This helps to understand why different styles exist and when they might be preferred. Furthermore, the table implicitly demonstrates the design evolution from purely minimal to more nuanced variations that cater to different aesthetic preferences and body types, showcasing the garment’s adaptability within fashion.

Cultural Currents: Perceptions, Controversies, and Acceptance

The evolution of swimwear, including the thong, provides a significant reflection of shifting societal attitudes toward the body and minimal clothing.⁴ Initially, societal expectations largely demanded full coverage.⁴ The thong faced considerable “cultural resistance” at first ⁹, often regarded as a “controversial piece of underwear” ⁴ and frequently associated with “smut”.⁶ A pivotal moment in this perception was the Monica Lewinsky scandal in 1995-1998, where her act of “flashing President Clinton the straps of her thong underwear” led media to use it as a “metonym for smut” and contributed to transforming the image of a D.C. staffer into a “sexual temptress”.⁶ This incident firmly cemented an early association of the thong with sexual provocation and scandal in the public consciousness.

The public phenomenon of the thong intersects with broader debates surrounding sexual liberation.⁴ While some individuals view the thong as a “symbol of sexual openness and empowerment,” others contend that it “contributes to the sexualization of the wearer”.⁴ For instance, Christian commentators have explicitly linked the rise of thong usage to a “rise of sexualization in society” and an increased “desire to go unclothed,” suggesting that the fashion industry “may have changed the mindset of our society” and that thongs were created by designers to “arouse sexual thoughts”.⁶ Conversely, feminist perspectives offer valuable insights into this debate, emphasizing the importance of “agency and choice” in discussions of clothing and sexuality, underscoring that the wearer’s intent and autonomy are crucial.⁴

Public response to thongs is often mixed, encompassing both endorsement and backlash, frequently reflecting “generational divides” where younger populations typically exhibit more liberal attitudes.⁴ This divergence is particularly evident in school environments, where the growing popularity of thongs among young girls (middle and high school) significantly impacted the social landscape across the Western world.⁶ By 1997-1999, thongs were popular among high school and middle-school aged girls, with sales for tweens (7-12 years old) increasing substantially.⁶ This led to schools implementing bans (e.g., Salinas, CA high school ⁶) or even incidents involving physical checks for thongs (San Diego high school ⁶). Concerns were raised about girls as young as 10 wearing thongs to school in Britain.⁶ By 2004, thong exposure, whether accidental or purposeful, became common in American high schools.⁶ Peer pressure played a significant role, with girls who chose not to wear thongs sometimes teased and called “Granny”.⁶ Parental resistance was also common, leading girls to devise strategies to purchase thongs, sometimes hiding them to avoid discovery.⁶

The observations regarding the thong’s reception, particularly among younger wearers, reveal a pronounced culture clash. On one side, there is significant moral and religious opposition ⁶, institutional bans ⁶, and media portrayals linking thongs to “smut” or “troubled teens”.⁶ This indicates a sense of moral apprehension among adults and institutions concerned about perceived sexualization. On the other side, for young girls, wearing thongs became a “statement to other kids that they are part of this very, very intense, powerful second family of peer group and pop culture” ⁶, driven by “social pressure to look sexy – without crossing over the murky line into seeming slutty”.⁶ This dynamic illustrates that adult and institutional concerns about sexualization often lead to restrictions and backlash, while simultaneously, peer pressure and pop culture influence drive the adoption of thongs for identity and belonging, frequently resulting in rebellion against adult norms. The thong bikini, therefore, became a symbol of a generational divide, where adult anxieties about declining modesty and sexualization collided with youth’s use of fashion for social belonging, self-expression, and navigating complex peer dynamics, highlighting fashion’s power to delineate cultural boundaries.

Beyond schools, the thong bikini’s acceptance in public spaces and sports has also been contentious. A male professor was banned from a Miami University recreation center for wearing thong swimwear in 1999, leading him to challenge the school in court.⁶ Certain beaches (e.g., Daytona Beach, 2002) and private resorts may enforce specific dress codes prohibiting thong-style swimwear.³ Sports programs, such as 4-H and Virginia FCCLA, have explicitly forbidden “string, thong or crochet” swimsuits for women, while specifying “swim trunks” for men.⁶ Female bodybuilders are prohibited from wearing thong or T-back swimsuits if contests are televised.⁶ Furthermore, prison visitors in Tennessee were banned from wearing thong or G-string underwear in 2007, citing concerns about prisoners being “turned on”.⁶

The commercial sector has actively adapted to changing consumer preferences, influencing market trends for thongs.⁴ Retailers have capitalized on the garment’s notoriety. Abercrombie & Fitch, for example, faced controversy in 2002 for releasing a thong line for girls aged 10-16, fitting children as young as seven. Despite sparking ethical concerns, this generated significant publicity.⁶ Similarly, the British retailer Argos removed G-string panties and padded bras for nine-year-old girls following public backlash.⁶ In Japan, the phenomenon of “T-back Junior Idols,” involving photobooks and DVDs of underage girls in T-back thongs, became a highly controversial issue, criticized as a disguised form of child pornography.⁶ This pattern shows how commercial entities have leveraged the controversial and rebellious image of the thong, particularly its association with youth culture and sexuality, to drive sales and market penetration. The controversy itself effectively became a marketing tool, generating what was essentially free publicity.⁶ This reveals how commercial interests can actively shape and exploit cultural trends, sometimes pushing ethical boundaries in their pursuit of profit, further complicating societal perceptions of the garment.

The media plays a crucial role in framing discussions around thongs, influencing public opinion and the broader cultural dialogue.⁴ Pop culture, including music videos and TV shows like “Baywatch” ⁵ and dramas such as “Degrassi: Next Generation” ⁶, has both portrayed and influenced thong trends. Films like “Thirteen” (2003) linked exposed thongs to troubled middle school students, reflecting broader anxieties about youth sexualization.⁶ Political commentators have also utilized the thong in broader cultural debates, highlighting its symbolic weight.⁶

The Thong Bikini in Fashion: Trends and Influence

After a period where the “particular fad died out around 2010,” thong bikinis are “slowly starting to come back into the spotlight”.⁵ They have “surged back into style” in recent years, with 2024 being “no exception”.⁷ Current trends favor “bold and minimalistic swimwear that enhances natural body shapes,” with designers embracing “high-cut leg openings, minimal coverage, and figure-flattering silhouettes”.⁷ Micro bikinis, which include thong-like designs, are a “favorite trend for summertime” and were a “go-to in the 2025 SI Swimsuit Issue”.³ Their growing popularity stems from social media and the high-fashion celebrity space, leading most swimwear brands to now offer them.³

The thong bikini’s journey from being “once taboo” ⁵ to becoming a “fashion staple” ⁵, experiencing a decline where the “fad died out around 2010” ⁵, and now “slowly starting to come back into the spotlight” ⁵ and being “definitely in style for 2024” ⁷, illustrates a cyclical pattern in fashion. This suggests that fashion, particularly for controversial items, operates on a pendulum swing between acceptance and decline, only to resurface with new cultural meanings. This cyclical nature indicates that the thong bikini’s enduring presence is less about a fixed style and more about its adaptability to evolving cultural values, allowing it to be continually re-contextualized and re-embraced by new generations and trends, such as body positivity and minimalism.

Celebrities and social media have played “pivotal roles” in the thong’s transition from a controversial item to a publicly embraced garment.⁴ Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have “normalized thong bikinis,” making them “more accessible to people of all shapes and sizes”.⁷ Many influencers and celebrities “proudly wear thong bikinis,” inspiring others to try the style themselves.⁷ The “virality of a micro bikini is a key component in its rise to success,” with figures like Kim Kardashian and Sofía Vergara cementing the trend’s place in high fashion.³ The “Thong Song” by Sisqó in 1999 significantly popularized the thong in mainstream music.⁵ Rihanna’s see-through dress in 2014, which revealed her thong, initiated a trend where high-end clothes showed more than they covered, further increasing thong visibility.⁵

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have been instrumental in normalizing thong bikinis and accelerating their resurgence. This is evident in how these platforms have made the style more accessible and rapidly disseminated than traditional media. The influence has shifted from traditional gatekeepers, such as fashion magazines and designers, to individual influencers and user-generated content. This allows for a more organic and rapid spread of trends, enabling a broader participation in trend-setting. The current popularity of the thong bikini is a testament to the transformative power of social media in speeding up fashion cycles, normalizing previously controversial styles, and facilitating a more decentralized approach to fashion trends.

Key design trends for 2024 include high-waisted thong bikinis, popular for their flattering fit, retro appeal, and ability to enhance the waistline, creating an hourglass effect while offering slightly more midsection coverage.⁷ Micro thong bikinis cater to those seeking a more daring, “barely-there appearance,” providing minimal coverage designed to accentuate curves.⁷ One-shoulder thong bikinis, with their asymmetrical designs, add a sophisticated touch, elevating the classic bikini shape.⁷ Vibrant colors such as neon green, coral, and electric blue, as well as animal prints like leopard and zebra, are expected to bring energy and flair to beach looks.⁷ Reflecting an ongoing commitment to sustainability, many swimwear brands are now focusing on eco-friendly materials like recycled nylon and sustainable fabrics for thong bikinis.⁷ These revealing suits are increasingly seen as a “moment that’s primed to be a warm-weather staple for years to come”.³ Their simple yet impactful design aligns with the broader “minimalist fashion trend” that has dominated recent years.⁷

Body Image, Confidence, and Personal Expression

Wearing a thong bikini is often described as a journey toward self-acceptance, enabling individuals to overcome body image issues and foster self-love.¹ For many, slipping into a thong for the first time represents a pivotal moment, symbolizing an acceptance of their body with all its perceived perfections and imperfections.¹⁶ This choice can be a testament to personal resilience and a significant step toward embracing body positivity.¹⁶

Beyond personal acceptance, the thong bikini serves as a powerful statement of individuality and freedom.⁴ It allows wearers to defy gender stereotypes and societal expectations through their fashion choices, communicating their identity without words.¹⁶ The courage required to stand out in a world that often values conformity highlights the empowerment found in such a personal choice.¹⁶

The confidence gained from wearing a thong can significantly and positively impact mental health.¹ Feeling good in one’s chosen attire contributes to broader psychological benefits of body positivity and self-acceptance.¹⁶ The acceptance of thongs in public spaces is closely linked to the body positivity movement, which encourages individuals to embrace their natural bodies and feel more confident in displaying their curves.⁴ Thongs have come to symbolize confidence, self-acceptance, and the rejection of traditional body norms.⁴ Social media platforms have been instrumental in promoting these values, allowing individuals to share their journeys toward self-love and acceptance, often through their choice of attire, including thongs.⁴ The movement emphasizes that “all bodies are bikini bodies,” reinforcing that confidence emanates from within.¹⁵ When individuals wear their bikinis with pride, they convey a message of acceptance not only to themselves but also to others, contributing to a change in the narrative surrounding women’s bodies.¹⁵ Practical tips for enhancing confidence in swimwear generally include embracing one’s unique shape, finding the perfect fit, practicing self-care, and maintaining good posture.¹

Practical Considerations and Contexts of Use

Thong bikinis offer several practical advantages, making them a popular choice for specific contexts. One of the primary reasons individuals opt for thong bikinis is to minimize tan lines.¹ The minimal coverage means less fabric to block the sun, leading to a more even tan across the body, which is particularly appealing for those who wish to avoid distinct tan lines that might show under other clothing.¹

Regarding comfort, thongs, including thong bikinis, can be very comfortable when the appropriate fit and fabric are selected.¹ With less fabric compared to traditional swimwear, thong bikinis can feel lighter and less restrictive.¹ For those new to wearing thongs, it might initially feel unfamiliar, but comfort often follows quickly with the right fit, and most individuals report forgetting they are even wearing one after a few wears.¹ Choosing the correct size and material is crucial for comfort, ensuring adequate support without causing discomfort or irritation.¹³

Thong bikinis are highlighted as a “must-have for beach days”.¹ They are described as a stylish, bold, and undeniably chic option for lounging poolside or hitting the beach.¹ Their minimal coverage makes them ideal for situations where avoiding tan lines is a priority.¹ However, it is important to consider the location and social setting. Many tropical resorts, private pools, and trendy beach destinations have become more accepting of thong bikinis.³ Conversely, if visiting a family-friendly beach, it is advisable to check local regulations or dress codes, as thong bikinis may not be permitted in all public spaces.³ Institutional reactions have also varied; for instance, a male professor was banned from a Miami University recreation center for wearing thong swimwear ⁶, and certain sports programs explicitly forbid “string, thong or crochet” swimsuits.⁶ Prison visitors in Tennessee were even banned from wearing thong or G-string underwear due to concerns about their provocative nature.⁶When considering activities, thongs may be suitable for sunbathing or casual swimming but might not be ideal for more active water sports due to their minimal design.¹³ Given the minimal coverage, more skin is exposed to the sun, making it essential to use high-SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently to prevent sunburn.¹³ From an environmental perspective, the minimal material used in thong swimwear could be considered a positive, as it requires less fabric and potentially has a smaller carbon footprint compared to larger swimwear items.