aussieBum Woollen Mermaids men's swimsuit
Maker
aussieBum
(Australian)
Date2009
Object number00046914
NameSwimsuit
MediumWool, elastane (Spandex or Lycra)
DimensionsOverall: 31 x 376 x 219 mm, 73.31 g
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from aussieBum
DescriptionSean Ashby of aussieBum is one of the contemporary swimwear designers invited to reinterpret the classic one-piece swimsuit using a technologically advanced wool/elastane textile for the Australian National Maritime Museum's 2009 exhibition 'Exposed! The Story of Swimwear'. The use of this fabric articulates the technological importance of performance textiles to fashioning a modern garment, whilst acknowledging the importance of wool as a yarn to Australia and the swimsuit's history.HistorySean Ashby created aussieBum in 2001 when he was unable to find the type of swimwear he wore in his youth. Together with Guyon Holland, Ashby established a market for the classic nylon speedo-style swimmers synonymous with Australian beach style. aussieBum is recognised as one of the fastest growing men's fashion brands in the world today, and has increased its product line to include underwear, leisurewear and sportswear. The collection is proudly designed and manufactured in Australia using the world's finest Italian lycras to offer a superior fit.
aussieBum's sometimes irreverent approach has positioned it as a darling of the media, ensuring massive global exposure. The company's philosophy is to always push the boundaries of what is acceptable.
aussieBum has won numerous industry awards including Exporter of the Year, Best Small/Medium Manufacturer of Australia and several awards for e-commerce. The brand is stocked in major department stores in London, Paris and Berlin, while its online store ships to more than 70 countries, embracing the opportunities of a global market.SignificanceThis swimsuit shows the design emphases of aussieBum, one of Australia's new generation swimwear brands, both in the representation of its 2009 collection and its imaginative response to the Australian National Maritime Museum's 'Woollen Mermaid' project. Sean Ashby's 'Woollen Mermaid' project swimsuit highlights a modern aesthetic inspired by a male response to the original Australian mermaid Annette Kellerman.
