Women's Ada of California tartan swimsuit
Maker
Ada of California
(American)
Date1960s
Object number00003302
NameSwimsuit
MediumBri-nylon
DimensionsOverall: 370 x 680 mm
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis tartan print one piece swimsuit highlights the shift from the highly structured swimwear of the 1950s to the more comfortable and simplistic designs of the 1960s. New fabrics such as Bri-nylon offered support and shape without the corset-like structuring of earlier swimsuits. Form was created with an in-built wired bra and elasticised edging on the legs and back.
This swimsuit's adjustable shoulder straps are lined in brown cotton faille and fastened with black plastic buttons. Made in America by Ada of California, the suit has a scooped neck and back, an elasticised waist and a half skirt for modesty.
HistoryIn the 1950s and early 1960s 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.
As the 1960s progressed swimsuits became less structured and designs became more focused on comfort. This change was influenced by the new synthetics that were more malleable and forgiving. With the shift away from natural fibres, such as wool and cotton, to synthetics in the 1950s, nylon became the first in a series of synthetic fabrics used by swimwear manufacturers. It was quick drying and stretched to hug the figure, providing a more self supporting garment than the heavier woollen suits of previous decades.SignificanceThis swimsuit is representative of the swimwear fashions that gained popularity in the 1960s. It is also an important example of the use of new textile technologies during the mid twentieth century.
