Women's blue Jantzen swimsuit

Maker Jantzen (American, founded 1910)

Date1960s

Object number00029001

NameSwimsuit

MediumBri-nylon, rubber

DimensionsOverall: 590 x 355 x 60 mm, 0.25 kg
Clothing size: 36

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis 1960s Bri-nylon one piece swimsuit shows the change from the highly structured garments of the 1950s to the more comfortable and simplistic designs of the 1960s. Made by Miss Jantzen in Australia, the new nylon fabric offered support and shape without the corset-like panels of earlier swimsuits. Form has been created with an inbuilt bra, and elasticised edging on the scooped back and legs. Harking back to more modest trends of the 1940s, the design also features a gathered squared neck line and a half skirt.HistoryIn the 1950s and early 1960s swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped with paneling and built in supports in order to create a curvaceous, ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasised the bust, waistline and hips. As the 1960s progressed swimsuits became less structured. Designs became more focused on comfort, while necklines went up and straps became thicker. This change was influence by the new synthetics that were stretchier and offered greater freedom to the wearer. From the 1950s there had been a shift away from natural fibres, such as wool and cotton, to synthetics. Nylon became popular in the 1960s, providing a more self supporting garment than the heavier woollen suits of previous decades. Developed during World War One by DuPont, USA, and the first in a series of synthetic fabrics used by swimwear manufacturers, it was quick drying and stretched to hug the figure. In a move away from the 'pin-up girl' marketing of the 1950s that focused on stars from the big screen, the 1960s saw swimsuit makers such as Jantzen and Catalina becoming involved in beauty contest sponsorship. The label Miss Jantzen emerged around the same time as the 'Miss Jantzen' contests.SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of one piece styles worn during the 1960s. It is also an important example of the use of new textile technologies during the mid 20th century.