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Women's Berlie polka dot print two piece swimsuit
Women's Berlie polka dot print two piece swimsuit

Women's Berlie polka dot print two piece swimsuit

Maker
Date1970s
Object number00016888
NameSwimsuit
MediumNylon
DimensionsOverall: 1010 mm, 0.05 kg
Clothing size:
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Joan Gray
DescriptionThis blue and white polka dot print two piece swimsuit was worn by Joan Gray, a popular model for swimwear manufacturer Jantzen. Made in Australia by Berlie Seabodies in the 1970s, the baby doll style top is attached to the bikini briefs by two small pieces of elastic. Tied at the shoulder with shoestring straps, the top is shaped with darts and an empire line band below the bust that fastens at the back with a plastic butterfly clasp.HistoryIn the 1950s and 1960s swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped with panelling and in-built supports to create a curvaceous, ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasised the bust, waistline and hips. As the 1960s progressed, swimsuits became less structured and designs became more focused on comfort using new synthetic fabrics that were quick drying and stretched to hug the figure.SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of women's beachwear fashions produced in Australian in the 1970s. The garment belonged to former swimwear model Joan Gray, and still retains the original manufacturer's tag.