Material relating to the Black Lance swimwear range
Date1930s
Object numberANMS0451
NameArchive series
MediumPaper
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Dale O'Sullivan
DescriptionThis archive series numbered [001] - [010] consists of material collected by designer Peter O'Sullivan relating to the Black Lance swimwear range. It includes a poem advertising proof, four Black Lance advertisements in newspapers, a brochure and fact sheet of Black Lance water fashions, a swim suit measurement chart, letter to Mr John Crundall, and newspaper clipping.
Designed by O'Sullivan, the Black Lance swimwear range of the 1930s featured low cut backs, fashionable colours and decorative flourishes.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.
19th century