Men's Casben cabana set

Maker Casben

Datec 1960

Object number00028057

NameJacket

MediumCotton, plastic

DimensionsOverall: 725 x 790 x 50 mm, 0.15 kg

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThe cabana set, consisting of matching boxer shorts and collared button-up shirts, was hugely popular in the 1950s. Following the fashion for bold fabric prints, this set features an overall pattern of stylised Australian and Pacific Island Indigenous motifs. Designed by Casben, the shorts are lined and have a shirred elasticised waist with a drawstring, and a false pocket on the right side. HistoryBy the 1950s, men's swimwear mirrored women's trends in fabric and detailing. Swimsuits broke away from the single-colour conformity of the pre-war years, and flamboyantly coloured trunks and boxer shorts in quick-dry fabrics with matching shirts became popular for swimming as well as for casual attire.SignificanceThis cabana set is representative of men's beachwear fashions in Australia in the 1950s.