Women's Catalina swimsuit
Maker
Catalina
(American, founded 1907)
Date1960s
Object number00003381
NameSwimsuit
MediumSynthetic fabric
DimensionsOverall: 690 x 390 mm, 0.2 kg
Clothing size: 12
Clothing size: 12
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis 1960s one piece Catalina swimsuit pays homage to the streamlined, webbing belted styles of the 1930s. Featuring an inbuilt bra with lace detailing and white trimming at the neckline, a scooped back and panelled shorts, the swimsuit is fully lined.HistoryIn the 1950s and early 1960s swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped with panelling and in-built supports to create a curvaceous, ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasized the bust, waistline and hips.
In the late 1960s swimsuits gradually became less structured. Designs became more focused on comfort, and new synthetics such as nylon became the preferred material for manufacturers as it was quick drying, and stretched to hug the figure.
SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of women's beachwear fashions produced by Catalina in the 1960s.
