Boy's swimming trunks
Datec 1950
Object number00028058
NameSwimsuit
MediumCotton
DimensionsOverall: 190 x 285 x 10 mm, 0.05 kg
Clothing size: 5
Clothing size: 5
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThese machine-knitted waffle-weave cotton swimming trunks have an elasticised waist with a separate gusset and cuffs on the hems at the leg. Children's swimwear from the 1950s rarely survives today as it was usually handed down to a younger sibling or simply worn out.HistoryBoys' swimwear followed men's fashions in the 1950s. Form-fitting trunks with strategically-placed seams and panels followed the trend for swimwear that was functional, sleek and streamlined. Machine-knitted cotton was more comfortable than the heavy woollen swimwear of the previous decades and let children run and jump with freedom.SignificanceThese swimming trunks are a rare example of Australian swimwear design for children in the early 1950s.
Early 1960s
Late 1950s
1890-1910
