A swimsuit (also swimmers), bathing suit (also bathers) or swimming costume (sometimes shortened to cozzie) is an item of clothing designed to be worn for swimming. Swimsuits are typically skin-tight clothing, and range from garments designed to preserve as much modesty as possible to garments designed to reveal as much of the body as possible without actual nudity. They are often lined with fabric that assures that they do not become transparent when wet.

It is either one piece or two pieces. The types of swimwear as as follows.

Bikini -- This once-shocking style (born more than 30 years ago) is the granddaddy of fashion swimwear. Looks newest now in super-skimpy triangle, side-tie bottoms. Look for built-in push-up bras, underwear and sculpted cups for extra curves.

Tankini -- A variation of the bikini, this sporty style has a longer top that leaves only a small portion of the tummy exposed. Don't want to expose your tummy at all. Go for the mock tankini.

Bandini -- A bikini with a bandeau (straight, striplike piece of fabric) top.

Camikini -- Same as the tankini except the top looks like a camisole.

Maillot -- One-piece suit (some creative types have even labeled a cut-out style the "monokini"). This year maillots are cut out, one-shouldered and halternecked.