Fashionable History: Swimwear By Decade- 1930's

In the 1930's sun bathing became more popular as an inexpensive recreation. Athletic swimming and synchronized swimming was also popular. The suits reflect the need to show more skin to the sun and be more streamlined for water sports. Belted maillots were popular with boy cut legs or slim skirts. The exposed v-back was invented and a few daring ladies even exposed their midriffs with the first bikinis. The suits above are from a 1930's catalog. I love the red and white striped one on the right!
Jean Harlow striking a pose. Her suit is very glamourous for the time and shows a lot of skin.

Beach athletics. Notice her V-back and belted waist.

Claudette Colbert looking gorgeous in a simple white classic belted maillot.

This summer my "Fashionable History" segments are on swimwear by decade. To read about the 1920's click here.

Fashionable History: Swimwear By Decade- 1920's

In the 1920's swimwear started revealing the body more then ever before. The modern maillot was invented. The adrogynous athletic tank style of the maillot suited the fashions of the 20's as women became liberated from long skirts. Even though they were made in wool jersey and often worn with little booties these suits are the forerunners of the suits we wear today.
This picture is tiny, but the girls here "jazz" up their suits with flapper hats!

Although this pic doesn't actully show swim suits, it is too adorable not to share. Parasols were
your best sun protection back then.

I love these ladies!

They have it all, decorated maillots, parasol, hats, and musical instruments.

Adorable!

My "Fashionable History" segment this summer is Swimwear by Decade. Last week was the 1900's. Next week, 1930's!