People are having mixed reactions about a bikini design that makes you look like you have a period stain

A new £36.50 (R670) lace up bikini set by British retailer Marks and Spencer has been thrust into the spotlight for a patch that some women feel looks a lot like a period leak, reports Daily Mail.

READ MORE: Why do periods still embarrass people?

According to the product description, the company was going for a summer sunrise theme but some shoppers are convinced it looks more like a period accident because of where the questionable red colour appears. 

The top half of the bikini looks normal but the light pink bottom darkens to a deep red in the groin area, leaving what some feel is a distinct look of a period stain.

"I think the M&S designer was having a bad day, not a look I want to go for this summer," posted blogger and Youtuber Bex Renshaw on Twitter.

Her post soon went viral, amassing nearly 5 000 likes, over 500 retweets and more than 100 comments. 

According to Mirror Online the bikini is described by the company as "a stunning way to make an entrance when you head poolside this summer."

They also stated that it will instantly make you feel like grabbing your beach towel. "You think?" responded a mortified woman on Twitter. 

The bikini has caused a stir on social media, with mixed reactions from social media users. Some swimmers declared the bikini bottom unwearable while others insisted there was nothing wrong with the item of beachwear. 

On the review section on the website, one woman gave the bikini set two stars explaining: "Not going to lie this makes it look like you had an accident on your period."

Another woman detailed how she had to sadly return the item because of the colour scheme.

“Bought the top and bottom, lovely style very flattering but the red of the design made it look as if I had forgotten to change my tampon. If I wore this poolside I would be a laughing stock! Sadly returned.

READ MORE: Me, myself and my disgusting period

What were the buyers thinking when this design of fabric was decided upon?

Was it a male buyer perhaps who would have no concept or thought about the connotations of the red material in the groin area," she wrote.

However other customers were amused by the controversial design, some even suggesting it could contribute to smashing period stigma.

"This actually makes me want to buy these just to make squeamish people uncomfortable," commented one, while another quipped: “Menstrual chic.”

Joining in on the fun another Twitter user found a dress to match the vibe, writing: "And in the evening you can slip into this little number." 

The bottoms have since either sold out or been pulled from sale as they're no longer on the M&S website.

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While we understand no woman wants a period stain on their favourite clothes, we are also for ending the stigma around menstruation; because in an ideal world free from period taboos, a period stain would not be associated with shame.