Women's Playtex textured rubber swimming cap with costume jewels
Maker
Playtex
Date1950s
Object number00046087
NameSwimming cap
MediumRubber, plastic
DimensionsOverall (not on mannequin): 200 x 180 x 160 mm
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
Collections
HistoryEarly swimming caps were made of fabrics such as cotton and silk, but by the mid 20th century they were primarily made of rubber. Though the 1940s saw swimming caps become scarce as rubber was needed for war materials, by the 1950s decorated caps had come into vogue. During the 1960s swimming caps gained in popularity. Often designed by milliners, they were brightly coloured, appliquéd with flowers or ribbons, or moulded into shapes.SignificanceThis textured rubber swimming cap elaborately decorated with colourful costume jewels is representative of beach and pool fashions of the 1950s. Worn to accessorise the wearer's swimsuit and protect permanent wave hairstyles in vogue during the period, swimming caps were a popular fashion statement in the 1950s.