Swimwear designs, patent applications and correspondence
Date1929 - 1939
Object numberANMS0444
NameArchive series
MediumPaper
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Dale O'Sullivan
DescriptionThis archive series numbered [001] - [037] consists of patent applications, designs and correspondence between Edward Waters and Sons patent attorneys and Peter O'Sullivan.
It includes seven additional representations of designs for patent applications for Alexander MacRae, John Noble Walker, Conqueror Knitting Mills, Jantzen, Lyne Brothers, Murdoch's Limited, and the Metropolitan Knitting Company. It also includes 22 letters from Edward Waters and Sons, Clement A Hack and Son, and E F Wederoth to P O'Sullivan between 1936 -1987, a specification drawing, notification and four invoices.HistoryPeter O'Sullivan became the first Australian to successfully design and manufacturer swimwear for export to the United States by creating two innovations. He won the world patent for the square belt buckle, known as the 'Superman' buckle, after it was incorporated into Superman's costume and he developed the small skirt across the front of both men's and women's swimsuits known as the 'modesty panel'.
O'Sullivan's 'modesty panel' became a feature of Australian and international swimwear fashions right up until the 1970s. His Black Lance swimwear range in the 1930s featured low cut backs, fashionable colours and decorative flourishes.SignificanceThis is a rare archival collection with excellent display potential relating to Melbourne based swimwear designer Peter O'Sullivan. The collection documents all aspects of knitted swimwear production from the development of designs, to the choice of models, manufacture and distribution of swimwear. The collection illustrates the European and American influences on O'Sullivan's designs, as well as his innovations of the modesty-skirt and 'Superman' buckle.
