Women's Bukta swimsuit
Maker
Bukta
Datelate 1940s-1950s
Object number00017851
NameSwimsuit
MediumSatin. elastic
DimensionsOverall: 640 x 300 mm, 0.2 kg
Clothing size: 32
Clothing size: 32
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis green satin maillot swimsuit was made by Bukta Swimwear in England in the late 1940's or early 1950's. Satin was rarely used in swimsuits, especially after World War II when raw materials were limited. The design features the figure hugging device of tight shirring at the front, back and the waist along with a decorative yellow-gold trim along the bust and the shoulder straps.
HistoryFrom the late 1940s swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped and textured with shirring, smocking and contrasting panels. This created a curvaceous and ultra-feminine silhouette that emphasised the bust, waistline and hips.
SignificanceThis swimsuit is a rare example of a satin swimsuit from the 1940's or 1950's.
