|
Definition The T-front maillot is a confusing species that some argue is more correctly classified as bikini. The maillot advocates argue that because the bottoms have a strap up the body between the breasts, and around the neck that the suit is in the spirit of a one-piece. This shape of the suit gives it its name. The bikini advocates argue that because the suit consists of two pieces it is indeed a bikini. The maillot advocates argue that a top is optional, and when worn is an accessory to the maillot, not the other way around. The debate continues to rage, but one thing that all agree upon is that this rather unique combination qualifies as a unique species of swimsuit! Silhouette Mechanics The T-front maillot is a post-bikini, late 20th century silhouette which makes its first appearances in the late 1970s (RV7920A). Besides the strong centerline focus, the defining characteristics may include a high waistline and bulk, and it is most often seen combined with a strapped bra (JD89A0) or bandeau--halter ties only confuse the silhouette. Easily worn with no top at all, it shares a fashion spirit with the more traditional topless maillot either with shoulder straps or strapless and without them. Given the constraints of the silhouette it is easy to raise or lower the waistline, especially in the back where the center lift on the front makes rugage practical (RV7920A). In practice the belly button is almost always covered. Legline can be conservative or rise inside inguinal and the buttocks can be covered or bared, tanga style. Layering and Top Combinations Layering is a late 1980s theme and the T-front is also one of those rare silhouettes in which layering plays a role. Two choices are presented to the bikiniite--she may wear the soutien-gorge beneath or on top of the center-strap. Fashion-wise, the strap is most visual lying on the top, but the alternate choice is tempting in topless cultures, where the top may want to be doffed and donned. Wearing the top underneath requires fasteners on the top alter the calculus of changing. All tops are a possibility with the maillot t-front, but the bandeau and bra are the most natural (RD8725). Because the halter clutters the neck it is less desirable, although the vest, worn overtop and left open, provides a great temptation. Related Species Like the suspender maillot, the T-front incorporates a strap to support and uplift the lower part of the maillot. Both silhouettes can have T-backs, or other variations. Like the maillot cutout, it bares patches of skin, but with a different design philosophy. Front and center symmetries are unusual and one might also examine these late 1960s centerring maillots (BZ6805, CK6810). Caption The T-front has play as a maillot and with top combinations. |
|
