In pics: What is a bandeaukini?

Know the difference between a monokini, sling bikini and a bandeaukini.

IMAGE: Sophie Choudry poses in a black bikini on International Bikini Day. Photograph: Kind courtesy Sophie Choudry/Instagram

Did you know that July 5 is International Bikini Day?

It was on this day in the year 1946, Loius Reard, a Parisian automobile and apparel designer created the first bikini -- the two-piece swimwear.

The now popular beach costume has since evolved into a fashion accessory, a powerful tool to empower women to embrace their scars, bodies and flaws.

On International Bikini Day, presenting some of the most popular types of bikini worn by celebrities.

IMAGE: Actor Ahaana Kumra is wearing a version of the string bikini. Originally designed by Reard, it features four triangular pieces of cloth attached by a string or a thread. Photograph: Kind courtesy Ahaana Kumra/Instagram

IMAGE: A single piece of swimsuit is called a monokini. Jacqueline Fernandez is seen wearing a neon one to the beach. Photograph: Jacqueline Fernandez

IMAGE: Shibani Dandekar sizzled in this white laced sling bikini she wore for a fashion shoot. A sling bikini, like its name suggests, looks like a sling. The single piece of swimwear extends to the torso, mostly exposing the sides and circles the neck. Photograph: Kind courtesy Rishina Kandharia/Instagram

IMAGE: Lisa Haydon gets ready to take a dip in the pool wearing a bandeaukini. It comes in many variants -- covering or exposing the torso -- but is mostly strapless. Photograph: Kind courtesy Lisa Haydon/Instagram

TELL US: Have you worn a bikini to the beach? Share your beach fashion tips in the messageboard below.

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