Men's blue Morley swimming trunks

Maker Morley

Date1960s

Object number00002698

NameSwimsuit

MediumBri-nylon

DimensionsOverall: 355 x 410 mm
Clothing size: 36

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Alan Winch

Terms

DescriptionMade by Morley, these light blue Bri-nylon swimming trunks feature a high drawstring waist, half skirt, and a leg line on the upper thigh. The development of synthetic fabrics such as quick-dry nylon in 1938 and Lycra-spandex in 1959 ensured the trend to snug, form fitting garments and ongoing innovation in swimwear technology and design. HistoryBy the 1950s and 1960s men's swimsuits mirrored women's fashion trends in fabric and detailing. While the size and style of men's swimming trunks had changed very little between the 1930s and 1960s, there had been a shift away from natural fibres, such as wool and cotton, towards synthetics, which were snug fitting, easy to dye, and highly absorbent.SignificanceThese swimming trunks reflect the bright, colourful swimwear designs popular for men in the 1960s.