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Women's 'Pearl' Liberty swimsuit
Women's 'Pearl' Liberty swimsuit

Women's 'Pearl' Liberty swimsuit

Date1950s
Object number00002929
NameSwimsuit
MediumCotton, rubber
DimensionsOverall: 815 x 360 mm, 0.25 kg
Clothing size: 42
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionMade by Liberty, this cotton 'Pearl' swimsuit features a shirred back, elasticised legs and a half skirt. A feminine shape is created with a cuffed butterfly neckline and a padded bust. Lined with cotton stockinette the swimsuit has adjustable shoulder straps.HistoryFrom the late 1940s cotton swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped and textured with shirring, smocking and contrasting panels to create a curvaceous and ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasised the bust, waistline and hips.SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of Australian beachwear fashions and textile technologies in the 1950s.