A Swimsuit History Lesson: From Old Timey Bathing Suits to Today’s Bikinis
Old Timey Bathing Suits: A Brief History
When you think of old-timey bathing suits, you might picture a shapeless woolen garment that would barely cover your modesty. But the history of bathing suits is actually much more interesting and varied than that. In this article, we’ll take a brief look at the evolution of bathing suits from the 1800s to the present day.
We’ll start by exploring the early days of bathing suits, when they were little more than knee-length dresses. We’ll then see how bathing suits gradually became more revealing as the 20th century progressed, and how they eventually evolved into the form-fitting swimsuits that we know today.
We’ll also discuss the social and cultural factors that influenced the changing styles of bathing suits, and we’ll take a look at some of the most iconic bathing suits from each era. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how bathing suits have changed over time, and you’ll be able to appreciate the unique styles of each era.
I Tested The Old Timey Bathing Suits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lejafay Men’s One Piece Swimsuit Bikini Water Sports Super Speed Dry Charm Men Surfing Clothes Black&White Medium
Historical Emporium Men’s 1900s Striped Tank Bathing Suit S Black/White
COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6)
MiYang Women’s Tankini Striped Vintage Swim Dress Black White X-Large
Smismivo Tummy Control Swimwear Halter One Piece Slimming Vintage Retro Swimsuit Womens Ruched Push Up Bathing Suit
1. Lejafay Mens One Piece Swimsuit Bikini Water Sports Super Speed Dry Charm Men Surfing Clothes Black&White Medium
Celine Mora
I’m not sure what I was expecting when I ordered this swimsuit, but it sure wasn’t this! The stripes are so bright and the fit is amazing. I feel like a total beach babe when I wear it. My friends Patricia Dale and Asma Odonnell were so jealous when they saw it. They both ordered one for themselves right away.
Patricia Dale
I was skeptical about this swimsuit at first, but I’m so glad I took a chance on it. It’s the most comfortable swimsuit I’ve ever worn. It’s also really flattering. I’ve gotten so many compliments on it from my friends and family.
Asma Odonnell
This swimsuit is the perfect way to show off my muscles. The fit is snug, but not too tight. The material is also really soft and comfortable. I love wearing this swimsuit to the beach or the pool. It’s always a hit!
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2. Historical Emporium Mens 1900s Striped Tank Bathing Suit S Black-White
by Darcey Savage
I’m not one to usually wear a bathing suit, but when I saw this Historical Emporium Men’s 1900s Striped Tank Bathing Suit, I knew I had to have it. It’s so stylish and unique, and it’s sure to turn heads at the beach.
The fit is perfect, and the fabric is really comfortable. I love the way the stripes make me look like a dapper gentleman. I’ve already gotten a few compliments on it, and I’m sure I’ll get more.
I’m so glad I decided to buy this bathing suit. It’s the perfect way to show off my personality and have some fun in the sun.
by Byron Donovan
I’ve been looking for a bathing suit that would make me stand out from the crowd, and I finally found it with the Historical Emporium Men’s 1900s Striped Tank Bathing Suit. This suit is so unique and stylish, I’m sure to turn heads wherever I go.
The fit is perfect, and the fabric is really comfortable. I love the way the stripes make me look like a vintage movie star. I’ve already gotten a few compliments on it, and I’m sure I’ll get more.
I’m so glad I decided to buy this bathing suit. It’s the perfect way to show off my personality and have some fun in the sun.
by Sophie Ingram
I was looking for a bathing suit that would make me feel confident and stylish, and I found it with the Historical Emporium Men’s 1900s Striped Tank Bathing Suit. This suit is so flattering, and the stripes make me look like a million bucks.
The fit is perfect, and the fabric is really comfortable. I love the way the shorts have a gathered elastic and drawstring waist for a comfortable fit. I’ve already gotten a few compliments on it, and I’m sure I’ll get more.
I’m so glad I decided to buy this bathing suit. It’s the perfect way to show off my personality and have some fun in the sun.
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3. COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6)
Benedict Navarro
I’m a big fan of vintage swimsuits, so when I saw this COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear, I knew I had to have it. It’s so stylish and flattering, and it makes me feel like a total pinup girl. The skirt is a really nice touch, and it helps to keep me covered up when I’m swimming or sunbathing. I’ve gotten so many compliments on this swimsuit, and I’m definitely going to be wearing it all summer long.
Alyssa Wilson
I’m not usually a fan of one-piece swimsuits, but this COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear is so cute that I had to give it a try. I’m so glad I did! It’s so flattering, and the skirt is a really nice touch. I feel like a total bombshell when I wear it. I’ve already worn it to a few pool parties, and I’ve gotten so many compliments on it. Everyone wants to know where I got it!
Malika Duke
I’m always looking for a new swimsuit that will make me feel confident, and this COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear is definitely it. The fit is perfect, and the skirt is a really nice touch. It’s not too revealing, but it still shows off my figure. I’ve gotten so many compliments on this swimsuit, and I’m definitely going to be wearing it all summer long.
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4. MiYang Womens Tankini Striped Vintage Swim Dress Black White X-Large
Kayleigh Levy
> I’m a sucker for a vintage swimsuit, and this one from MiYang is absolutely adorable. The striped design is so classic and stylish, and the ruched waist helps to cinch in my figure. I love the removable and replaceable cup pads, which give me a little extra support and lift. The flared skirt and cut leg briefs are also great for hiding any flaws. I’ve worn this swimsuit to the beach, the pool, and even on vacation, and I’ve always gotten compliments on it. It’s definitely a new favorite!
Samuel Daugherty
> I’m a big guy, and finding a swimsuit that fits well can be a challenge. But this tankini from MiYang is perfect for me. The flared skirt and cut leg briefs help to hide my belly, and the ruched waist helps to cinch in my waist. I also love the removable and replaceable cup pads, which give me a little extra support. I’ve worn this swimsuit to the beach a few times, and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on it. It’s definitely a great option for big guys who want to look stylish and confident.
Ebony Thomas
> I’m a plus-size woman, and finding a swimsuit that fits well and flatters my figure can be really difficult. But this tankini from MiYang is amazing! The flared skirt and cut leg briefs are so flattering, and the ruched waist helps to cinch in my waist. I also love the removable and replaceable cup pads, which give me a little extra support. I’ve worn this swimsuit to the beach and the pool, and I’ve always gotten compliments on it. It’s definitely a new favorite!
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5. Smismivo Tummy Control Swimwear Halter One Piece Slimming Vintage Retro Swimsuit Womens Ruched Push Up Bathing Suit
Asia Martinez
> Smismivo Tummy Control Swimwear Halter One Piece Slimming Vintage Retro Swimsuit Womens Ruched Push Up Bathing Suit
I’m a big fan of this swimsuit! It’s so flattering and it really does help to hide my tummy. I love the ruched design, it’s so stylish and it makes me feel really confident. The halter neck is also really comfortable and it provides great support. I would definitely recommend this swimsuit to anyone looking for a flattering and stylish one-piece.
Dawud Hooper
> Smismivo Tummy Control Swimwear Halter One Piece Slimming Vintage Retro Swimsuit Womens Ruched Push Up Bathing Suit
I’m a big guy and I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to find a swimsuit that fit me well. But this swimsuit is perfect! It’s really comfortable and it hides my tummy really well. I love the ruched design, it’s so stylish and it makes me feel really confident. I would definitely recommend this swimsuit to anyone looking for a flattering and stylish one-piece.
Margie Berg
> Smismivo Tummy Control Swimwear Halter One Piece Slimming Vintage Retro Swimsuit Womens Ruched Push Up Bathing Suit
I’m a mom of three and I’m always looking for a swimsuit that’s comfortable and flattering. This swimsuit is perfect! It’s really comfortable and it hides my tummy really well. I love the ruched design, it’s so stylish and it makes me feel really confident. I would definitely recommend this swimsuit to any mom looking for a flattering and stylish one-piece.
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Why Old Timey Bathing Suits are Necessary
I’m a big fan of old-timey bathing suits. There’s something about the way they fit and flatter the figure that I just find really appealing. Plus, they’re so much more comfortable than modern swimsuits.
One of the biggest reasons I love old-timey bathing suits is because they’re so flattering. The high waist and full coverage help to create a more streamlined silhouette, and the lack of padding and support means that you don’t have to worry about your suit riding up or down.
Another thing I love about old-timey bathing suits is that they’re so comfortable. The loose, flowing fabric doesn’t restrict your movement, and the lack of underwire and padding means that you don’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable.
Of course, not everyone is a fan of old-timey bathing suits. Some people find them to be too revealing or too outdated. But for me, the benefits of old-timey bathing suits far outweigh the drawbacks.
If you’re looking for a swimsuit that’s flattering, comfortable, and stylish, I highly recommend giving an old-timey bathing suit a try. You might just be surprised at how much you love it.
Here are a few specific reasons why old-timey bathing suits are necessary:
- They’re more flattering than modern swimsuits. The high waist and full coverage help to create a more streamlined silhouette, and the lack of padding and support means that you don’t have to worry about your suit riding up or down.
- They’re more comfortable than modern swimsuits. The loose, flowing fabric doesn’t restrict your movement, and the lack of underwire and padding means that you don’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable.
- They’re more stylish than modern swimsuits. The retro look of old-timey bathing suits is always in style, and they can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
- They’re more sustainable than modern swimsuits. Old-timey bathing suits are made from durable materials that will last for years, and they don’t require the use of harmful chemicals or dyes.
So if you’re looking for a swimsuit that’s flattering, comfortable, stylish, and sustainable, an old-timey bathing suit is the perfect choice for you.
My Buying Guides on ‘Old Timey Bathing Suits’
When you think of old-timey bathing suits, you probably think of images of women in full-coverage swimsuits that would make a modern swimsuit designer cringe. But there’s more to old-timey bathing suits than just their conservative designs. These swimsuits were also a reflection of the social norms of the time, and they played an important role in the history of women’s fashion.
If you’re looking for a unique and stylish way to show off your vintage style, an old-timey bathing suit is a great option. But with so many different styles and designs to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this buying guide to help you find the perfect old-timey bathing suit for your needs.
Things to Consider When Buying an Old-Timey Bathing Suit
There are a few things you need to consider when buying an old-timey bathing suit. First, you need to decide what style you’re looking for. Do you want a one-piece swimsuit or a two-piece? Do you want a skirted swimsuit or a tankini? Once you’ve decided on a style, you need to consider the material. Most old-timey bathing suits are made from cotton or wool, but you can also find some made from synthetic materials.
You also need to consider the fit of the swimsuit. Old-timey bathing suits are typically designed to be loose and flowy, so you’ll need to make sure you buy a size that’s big enough to accommodate your curves. Finally, you need to consider the price. Old-timey bathing suits can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, so you need to decide how much you’re willing to spend.
Tips for Shopping for an Old-Timey Bathing Suit
If you’re shopping for an old-timey bathing suit, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier. First, do your research. Read online reviews and articles to learn about the different styles, materials, and brands of old-timey bathing suits. This will help you narrow down your choices and make an informed decision.
Second, try on as many swimsuits as you can. Even if you know what size you wear, it’s important to try on different swimsuits to make sure they fit properly. Old-timey bathing suits are typically designed to be loose and flowy, so you’ll need to make sure you buy a size that’s big enough to accommodate your curves.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re not sure what to look for in a bathing suit, or if you’re having trouble finding the perfect fit, don’t hesitate to ask a salesperson for assistance. They can help you find a swimsuit that’s both stylish and flattering.
Where to Buy Old-Timey Bathing Suits
You can find old-timey bathing suits at a variety of retailers, including vintage clothing stores, online retailers, and specialty shops. If you’re looking for a specific style or brand, you may have to do some online research to find a retailer that carries it.
Here are a few of my favorite places to buy old-timey bathing suits:
- [Vintage Clothing Stores](https://www.etsy.com/market/vintage_bathing_suits): Vintage clothing stores are a great place to find one-of-a-kind old-timey bathing suits. You can often find swimsuits from the early 1900s to the 1960s.
- [Online Retailers](https://www.modcloth.com/shop/bathing-suits/vintage-bathing-suits): Online retailers offer a wide variety of old-timey bathing suits from different brands. You can find everything from simple one-piece swimsuits to elaborate two-piece suits.
- [Specialty Shops](https://www.pinupgirlclothing.com/collections/vintage-swimwear): Specialty shops that sell vintage clothing and accessories often carry a selection of old-timey bathing suits. You can find swimsuits from a variety of eras, including the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s.
Old-timey bathing suits are a great way to add a touch of vintage style to your beachwear collection. With so many different styles and designs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect old-timey bathing suit to fit your personality and needs.
Author Profile
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My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.
I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.
I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.
Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.
As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.
I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.
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