Shoppers were shocked after a popular clothing retailer advertised a teeny swimsuit that may have taken the concept of a bikini a little too far.
A swimsuit by the US fast fashion retailer Fashion Nova has prompted a strong reaction on social media, with many people saying they might as well go "bottomless" as the thin material barely covers the crotch.
The 'Butterfly Babe' two-piece bikini, on sale for just under US$20, features a blue string bikini top and minuscule thong bottoms.
On Sunday (local time), the company shared a photo of the risqué garment to Instagram, where it quickly received backlash for being "too inappropriate" for a public beach.
"Well, This Will Leave An Interesting Tan Mark. Our Bikini Will Have Everyone Feeling A Little Extra Hot This Summer," Fashion Nova captured the post.
At the time of writing there are more than 550 comments on the post, dividing users on whether the bikini is fashion-forward or a fashion disaster.
"One step, boom - you don't have any bottoms on," one person wrote.
"Like wearing a bandaid," another joked.
"Just swim bottomless at this point," a third wrote.
But others were feeling a little braver and revealed they would be adding the item to their list for the summer months.
"I need [them] but they're gonna judge me," one said.
"Definitely adding to my wish list," a second wrote.
But unfortunately, for those willing to rock the bikini, it is currently sold out online.
