Boy's light blue Lincoln swimming trunks
Maker
Lincoln
Datec 1940
Object number00028060
NameSwimsuit
MediumWool, cotton, brass
DimensionsOverall: 290 x 240 x 20 mm, 0.1 kg
Clothing size: 28
Clothing size: 28
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThese boy's swimming trunks follow the 1940s fashion for men's swimwear that was topless and high waisted. Made in Australia by Lincoln, the knitted wool design features a half skirt and leg line on the upper thigh for modesty and an adjustable cotton webbing belt with a metal buckle. 'Max' has been handwritten on the manufacturer's label in black pen.
HistoryBoy's swimwear followed men's fashions in the 1940s. Form-fitting trunks with strategically placed seams and panels followed the trend for swimwear that was functional, sleek and streamlined. Belts and buckles were also often included in the design, primarily as a way of differentiating men's and boy's swimwear from undergarments.SignificanceThese boy's swimming trunks are representative of Australian swimwear design in Australia in the 1940s.