Men's Morley swimming trunks
Maker
Morley
Date1950s-1960s
Object number00004834
NameSwimsuit
MediumNylon
DimensionsOverall: 305 x 340 mm
Clothing size: 38
Clothing size: 38
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis pair of navy blue men’s swimming trunks were quick drying and figure hugging, requiring a high drawstring waist and a half skirt for modesty. Made by Morley, the nylon swimsuit has the manufacturer's logo - a swimsuit clad woman catching a beach ball - sewn onto the lower left leg.
HistoryBy the end of the 1930s the fashion for men's swimwear was topless, high waisted, knitted wool or jersey swimming trunks with a half skirt for modesty, a leg line on the upper thigh and a belt for support.
By the 1950s, men's swimsuits mirrored women's trends in both fabric and detailing. While the actual style of trunks changed little between the 1930s and 1950s, there was a shift from natural fibres, such as wool and cotton, to synthetics.
SignificanceThese swimming trunks are representative of men's mid- twentieth century beachwear fashions in Australia.
