Summer is just around the corner and there’s one swimsuit style that is already generating a ton of buzz — the Towelkini — the part-towel, part-swimsuit innovation that has the Internet buzzing.
Aria McManus designed the two-in-one item (which is 100% cotton) last summer as a way to replace the need for a towel.
The product description explains that the interesting invention, “melds the two essentials for all things beach, no need to carry a cumbersome towel and an easy to lose swimsuit – here they come as one, materialized as ideal.”
The seemingly versatile accessory can be worn lying down for sunbathing purposes or can double-up as a dress (as seen in the advertising images of a model strutting down the street in the pink version). The clothing item, which also comes in gold, is available at specialspecial.com for $199, which is not exactly a cheap alternative to typical beachwear.
Despite receiving some backlash online — and a few negative press headlines — McManus says the Towelkini is doing well. In fact, she wrote on Instagram that it’s almost sold out.
She posted a Towelkini campaign photo, followed by screenshots of various media outlets mocking the product with the caption, “#Towelkini press: “Bizarre” “Tan lines could be an issue.” “We’re not convinced.” & some even parodied it 😂 But there are only a few left in pink and gold available online. Get ‘em before they’re gone!”