Men's Canadian style swimsuit

Maker Magpie

Datec 1910

Object number00015167

NameSwimsuit

MediumCotton

DimensionsOverall: 710 x 535 mm, 0.1 kg
Display Dimensions: 720 x 530 mm

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Jennifer Hilder

Terms

DescriptionThis two piece Canadian style navy swimsuit is trimmed in white, and at one point had a band of green fabric sewn in zigzag stitch across the chest and legs. This later addition has since been removed. The singlet top and knee-length trunks are made out of cotton stockinette, and the trunks have a wide white cotton drawstring at the waist.HistoryThe Canadian style two piece swimsuit, worn by men, women and children, simplified the earlier styles of bathing dress while still covering the body. Often sleeveless or with short sleeves, the design was innovative in revealing the wearer's ankles and shins. The swimsuits were made from stockingette, which was a machine-knitted cotton that offered a light-weight alternative to wool serge.SignificanceThis garment is a rare, representative example of the Canadian style swimsuits worn by men and women during the Edwardian period.