Material relating to mannequin (model) applications
Date1930s
Object numberANMS0449
NameArchive series
MediumPaper
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Dale O'Sullivan
DescriptionThis archive series numbered [001] - [068] consists of material relating to mannequin (model) applications collected by swimwear designer Peter O'Sullivan.
It includes a business card of the Mannequin's Academy, 50 letters from women applying for an advertised position of mannequin, a newspaper clipping of Portlands Beach Girl Miss Beryl Caelli, six notes on mannequin applicants, and nine references for Joyce Findley, Isobel Martin, Christina Porter, Irene Daws, S Barton, and Margaret Raw.HistoryPeter O'Sullivan became the first Australian to successfully design and manufacturer swimwear for export to the United States by creating two innovations. He won the world patent for the square belt buckle, known as the 'Superman' buckle, after it was incorporated into Superman's costume and he developed the small skirt across the front of both men's and women's swimsuits known as the 'modesty panel'.
O'Sullivan's 'modesty panel' became a feature of Australian and international swimwear fashions right up until the 1970s. His Black Lance swimwear range in the 1930s featured low cut backs, fashionable colours and decorative flourishes.SignificanceThis is a rare archival collection with excellent display potential relating to Melbourne based swimwear designer Peter O'Sullivan. The collection documents all aspects of knitted swimwear production from the development of designs, to the choice of models, manufacture and distribution of swimwear. The collection illustrates the European and American influences on O'Sullivan's designs, as well as his innovations of the modesty-skirt and 'Superman' buckle.