Women's Sea Urchin swimsuit
Maker
Sea Urchin
Designer
Joan Amy
Date1960s
Object number00016874
NameSwimsuit
MediumNylon
DimensionsOverall: 0.15 kg
Clothing size: 34
Clothing size: 34
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Joan Amy
DescriptionDesigned by Joan Amy for Sea Urchin this purple and lilac one piece princess style swimsuit has an unusual square neckline, a low scooped back and decorative string belt. Exemplifying the change from the structured garments of the 1950s to the more comfortable and simplistic designs of the 1960s, this swimsuit's new stretch-nylon fabric offered support and shape with nylon mesh bra cups, adjustable straps and gentle shirring at the waist.
HistoryIn the 1950s and early 1960s swimsuits and sunsuits were often shaped with panelling and built-in supports to create a curvaceous, ultra-feminine silhouette emphasising the bust, waistline and hips.
As the 1960s progressed swimsuits became less structured and designs became more focused on comfort. New synthetic fabrics that were quick drying and stretched to hug the figure, provided a more self supporting garment than the heavier woollen suits of previous decades.SignificanceThis Australian made swimsuit is representative of beach fashions designed by Joan Amy during the 1960s.
