Women's leopard print Frederick's of Hollywood cut-away swimsuit
Maker
Frederick's of Hollywood
(American, founded 1946)
Date1980s
Object number00045202
NameSwimsuit
Medium85% Nylon, 15% elastane (spandex or Lycra)
DimensionsOverall: 560 x 230 mm, 100 g
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis leopard print swimsuit by the American company Frederick's of Hollywood follows the 1980s fashion trend for high cut legs, cut-away midriff and cross over bust. These uncompromising styles and wild fabrics left little to the imagination and were designed to be worn by fit and sculptured bodies.
HistoryThe 1970s saw the introduction of the side-baring, high cut swimsuit with a dramatic crossover bust. Such swimsuits were designed for sculptured bodies honed to perfection by gym workouts and cosmetic surgery. This trend continued into the 1980s where the swimsuit became an artful frame for the perfectly shaped and toned body.
Australian designers such as Robin Garland and Brian Rochford were influenced by the 1980s obsession with athleticism and sculptured bodies. They created garments inspired by active sportswear (such as t-backs and racer-backs) but also revealed the body. The influence of disco culture was also seen in the work of Australian and international designers by the use of Day-Glo tones, bold prints and synthetic fabrics.
SignificanceThis swimsuit is significant in reflecting fashion trends and cross cultural influences between American and Australian swimwear in the 1980s.
