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The Exploress

The History of the Bikini

Jul 12, 2024
Annette Kellerman, a pioneer in women's swimwear history, discusses the evolution of women's swimwear from bloomer suits to princess suits. She revolutionized swimwear design for speed and function. The podcast also explores the bikini's controversial journey to becoming a fashion symbol in the 1960s.
36:33

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Early swimwear prioritized modesty over functionality, with heavy wool outfits and tiny weights for women's swimming safety.
  • Annette Kellerman revolutionized women's swimwear with functional, stylish one-piece suits, empowering women in fashion and sports.

Deep dives

Evolution of Ladies' Swimwear in Early History

In the early history of ladies' swimwear, before specialized swimwear existed, ancient Roman women used bandeau tops and underwear for activities resembling swimming. Swimming was done in the nude in the Roman era and later in private, sex-segregated spaces in the Middle Ages. By the 1700s, sea bathing was popular for health benefits, with doctors prescribing it for various ailments.

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