Women's swimming cap with blonde wig
Date1970s
Object number00029616
NameSwimming cap
MediumRubber, synthetic hair
DimensionsOverall: 0.25 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Joan Gray
DescriptionThis unusual swimming cap, made in West Germany in the 1970s, has been entirely covered with layered blonde synthetic hair, mimicking a short hair style.
Worn by Joan Gray, a house model for Jantzen in the 1970s and 1980s, the cap was designed to accessorise with the wearer's swimsuit, as well as to protect her hair from the sun, water and wind.
HistorySwimming caps were primarily made of rubberised fabric by the mid 20th century, by the 1950s decorated caps had come into vogue.
During the 1960s swimming caps were often designed by milliners and became fashionable accessories. Brightly coloured, appliquéd with flowers or ribbons and moulded into shapes, caps matched swimsuits in both colour and design.SignificanceThis swimming cap is a rare example of uncoventional beach and pool fashions of the 1970s.
1910s
