Men's top from two piece swimsuit

Maker Jantzen (American, founded 1910)

Date1950s

Object number00016699

NameSwimsuit

MediumMachine knitted wool

DimensionsOverall: 570 x 475 mm, 0.2 kg

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Winnievale

Terms

DescriptionThis machine made replica of a early 1920s swimsuit was most probably produced around the 1950s for promotional use. The top's design is sleeveless, and features a high round neck, while the knee length trunks have a draw string waist. The Jantzen diving girl logo used from 1948 has been sewn on both the left and right hip. HistoryAs a replica of an early twentieth century costume, this swimsuit's design reflected fashion developments from that period. At the turn of the century mixed bathing became acceptable. Now men and boys had to cover up, rather than swim naked. By the 1910s the two piece Canadian style swimsuit was introduced. The style simplified earlier styles of bathing while still covering the body. Often sleeveless or with short sleeves, the design was innovative in revealing the wearer's ankles and shins. SignificanceThe swimsuit is a rare example of a replica costume used by Jantzen for promotional purposes in fashion parades.