String bikinis are characterized by small triangles of fabric that cover the breasts, buttocks, and groin, held together with thin straps. The top is comprised of two triangles of material that cover the breasts, and are connected across the chest with a string that ties in the back. Another string links the top two corners and ties around the neck. Bottoms can come in a variety in styles, but typically, the more conservative string bikini will feature a low-rise or fuller coverage bottom that ties at the hip. String bikini thongs use far less fabric: a triangle covers the crotch, narrowing into a thong that leaves the buttocks almost entirely exposed.

The bikini was invented in 1946 by Louis Reard, a French engineer and lingerie seller. All bikinis resemble a basic bra and underwear set, leaving the midriff exposed. Bikinis were controversial in the 1940s for their revealing nature. The string bikini is an even skimpier version.

Rumor has it that the string bikini was designed by a Brazilian model named Rose De Primallio, who tried to sew her own bikini using only a tiny amount of fabric. Soon after, a group of models unveiled the string bikini for the first time at a New Orleans mall in 1974. Clergymen and conservatives denounced the skimpy new bikinis, but shoppers flocked to the mall. The string bikini's popularity skyrocketed.

Though string bikini wearers may be scantily clad, they are hardly the most revealing bikini on the market. In 1964, Austrian designer Rudi Gernreich invented a topless swimsuit, which he called the monokini. A monokini is swimsuit bottom attached to suspender-like straps, leaving the breasts bare. He later invented pubikinis, which reveal the pubic area for all to see.

Micro string bikinis, or microkinis, cover just enough to keep the wearer legal in most locations. Another barely-there bikini, called the sling bikini, is a V-shaped garment that extends from the groin to the shoulders, covering the nipples and exposing everything else. The V narrows to a thong in the back.

When buying a string bikini, it's important to choose a style that reveals only as much as the wearer is comfortable with. The straps should be a adjustable and tie securely. The last thing most women want is for a wave to take the top off. Side ties look sexy, but can get caught and untie easily; double side straps provide more security. Most importantly, a swimsuit should be chosen that makes the wearer feel good about her body, whether that's a microkini or a tankini.