Women's orange Bimba swimsuit
Maker
Bimba
Date1950s
Object number00003526
NameSwimsuit
MediumCotton, poplin
DimensionsOverall: 700 x 390 mm, 0.25 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionMade by Bimba, this cotton poplin one piece swimsuit features a half skirt gathered at an elasticised hem, loosely ruched side panels, a shirred back and piped seams. Its flattering sweetheart neckline with cross back straps and vertical panelling were designed to create an hourglass silhouette.HistoryIn the 1950s the swimsuit became a garment for opulent display. Exaggerated angles and curves were created with panelling and built-in supports producing a curvaceous, ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasised the bust, waistline and hips.
Swimwear designers drew on engineering and corsetry technology incorporating internal wiring, padding and elastic panels to achieve a sculptured cantilevered bust over a pinched-in 'wasp' waist. This voluptuous look was championed by film sirens Brigitte Bardot, Jayne Mansfield, Jane Russell, Sophia Loren and Marilyn Monroe.
SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of the structured fashion styles prominent in the 1950s and early 1960s. It is also an important example of the changing use of textile technologies during the mid twentieth century.
