The monokini looks like it might out-sexy the bikini this season thanks to the hot new "Summer Passion 2012" collection from Triumph.

The swimwear brand put on a show last week under a giant dome at CentralWorld, models dazzling the crowd in more than 40 sweet and glamorous suits.

And it was the monokini that seemed to enhance their figures most, in confidence-boosting fits and eye-catching patterns.

Marisa Anita was the hottest model of all in a stunning one-piece beautifully embellished at the midriff with gold sequins.

Triumph International (Thailand) marketing chief Chonladee Liamtrakul pointed out that the collection has its heart in bright summer skies, golden sunsets, blazingly white beaches and the natural beauty under the sea.

"The colours were inspired by the different rays of the sun, such as Pink Sand, which evokes the early morning, and Blush Pink, like the cheeks of a teenager in the hot afternoon sun. Soft Blue is like late afternoon, and Combo Brown and Black are mysterious and elegant for sunset and later."

"The 2012 swimwear line is completely different from previous collections," she said.

"There are many designs and patterns, like the fun-loving bubble-print bikinis, trendy one-shouldered and bandeau tops, luxuriously sequinned bikinis and the sexy monokini cut.

"And we continue to use high-quality materials to ensure great fit, comfortable stretching, UV protection and resistance to chlorine."

Triumph's fame for perfect fits is due to meticulous cutting and sewing and designs shaped to Asian women, Chonladee said.

Women can express themselves individually by mixing and matching components. The rainbow bikini is reversible. The bubble-print bikini comes in a range of sizes, hues and patterns.

"We want every woman to be able to wear a swimsuit confidently and feel proud of her body," Chonladee said.

One trend this year is swimwear designed for not just the seaside or hotel pool but also urban pool parties among friends.

That's where the mix-and-match aspect is doubly handy, because these swimsuits can be more easily paired with outer clothing and accessories.

Four top Thai models were on the runway.

Neeranat Cole wore a beautiful blue one-piece with modernistic animal prints.

Kanchanaklao Duayseinklao showed a retro pink-rose design that called to mind Marilyn Monroe.

Pitchanart Sakakorn's sexy bikini matched her chic flower-print shorts and her cheerful personality.

And supermodel Sirinya "Cindy" Bishop displayed her Cindy by Jantzen collection, also including monikinis this year.

As the designer, she took her cue from the evening gowns worn by movie stars on the red carpet.

"One-piece designs are enjoying a major comeback this season, both full swimsuits and the slightly sexier monokinis," Cindy said.

She added intricate accessories to set off each suit, all made of top-quality materials that won't be tarnished by sea brine.

"My collection has two main themes," she said. "Into the Wild is dominated by animal prints and jungle patterns, and Bird of Paradise is a colourful explosion of feathers and flowers.

And I have a third collection called Glamazon, which is all black ultra-glamorous designs and diamante accessories."

You can look fierce and still be gorgeous - maybe because you look fierce - in zebra and leopard prints, lush colours and adventurous patterns.

And the way the bikinis are cut, your Tarzan will be bellowing from the treetops.