Padded Bikini Tops

How is it possible to get the sculpting effect that shaping swimwear provides, and not have to opt for a full-length swimsuit? This is the question that the top swimwear designers have been asking for years. But now, thanks to their innovations, swimwear-lovers can get the benefits of shaping swimwear without missing out on their coveted tan.

The Padded Bikini Range

Cue the padded bikini. The technology works by designers inserting an extra layer of cushioning material into the cups of the standard bikini and integrating them using the manufacturers' most up-to-date sewing and binding methods. The result is a lot more lift and a more feminine, more natural shape to the breasts. Some bikinis that come with this padded cup technology even help to create more cleavage, thereby preventing the sagging effect we all have nightmares about. The extra weight that goes into a padded cup is then compensated for by the inclusion of strengthened shoulder straps, which keep everything in place, but don't sacrifice on comfort or movement.

In terms of comfort, the material that is added tends to range from quite firm to delicate and gentle, and that of course corresponds to how much lift and shaping you want. That said, even with the firmest of cup padding material, the fabric that is used to line that padding is always ultra-soft and sits gently against the skin. Swimwear designers know as well as anyone that having a bikini top that irritates the skin is worse than having no lift and shape to the cups at all. But with the majority of high-end brands - which are, of course, our specialty - there is no need to sacrifice comfort in the name of padding. In fact, in most cases, the padded element not only matches but also adds a level of comfort not available in the standard bikini top. This is especially helpful for those swimwear-lovers who can't abide the feel of artificial fabrics against the skin, as most padding is layered with a cotton blend or another natural material.

Whilst this may seem like a relatively simple change to make to the humble bikini, with many crying, 'But my bikini's fine the way it is!', it makes a world of difference to the shape and position of the cups, as well as the feel of the bikini when worn. For those out there who are unseasoned in the padded bikini world, give it a whirl and make your next bikini purchase a padded one.