Women's floral print cotton swimsuit
Date1950s
Object number00028077
NameSwimsuit
MediumCotton, elastic, plastic
DimensionsOverall: 710 x 350 x 10 mm, 0.2 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis floral print cotton one piece swimsuit has a pin tucked sweetheart neckline with central rouching, and an empire-line bust with shaping seams. With adjustable cross over shoulder straps that fasten at the back with white plastic buttons, the fully lined swimsuit also features a shirred back and a half skirt with elasticised legs.HistoryFrom the late 1940s cotton swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped and textured with shirring, smocking and contrasting panels in order to create a curvaceous and ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasised the bust, waistline and hips.
In the 1950s the swimsuit became a garment for opulent display, with women's magazines encouraging their fashion conscious readers to buy new swimsuits every season.SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of the structured beachwear fashions popular in Australia during the 1940s and 1950s.
