Men's navy blue Seagull swimming trunks
Maker
Seagull
Date1930-1950
Object number00009442
NameSwimsuit
MediumWool
DimensionsOverall: 395 x 340 mm, 0.148 kg
Clothing size: 38
Clothing size: 38
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Dale O'Sullivan
DescriptionThese navy blue knitted wool Seagull 'Sunshine Fashion' swimming trunks were made in Melbourne. They feature the company's distinctive white seagull logo and the original swing tag. The four page tag is still attached to the garment, with instructions on 'How to put on a swimming suit', 'Care of the garment in use', 'Other things to know', and 'Care of the garment after use'.HistoryBy the 1940s swimwear had become functional, sleek and streamlined. Men went topless, wearing swimming trunks and belted wool knit shorts with a half skirt for modesty. Women's swimsuits went backless, and were often accessorised with coloured rubber surf caps to complete the silhouette of the outfit.SignificanceThese swimming trunks are representative of men's swimwear designs produced in Australia during the 1940s and 1950s.
