Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.
Summer is just around the corner and you know what that means, it’s pool party season!
Weather you are splashing about in a backyard pool, lounging at the lake or sun bathing at the beach, one thing’s for sure you’ll need a splashing swimsuit.
History of the Swimsuit
During the 1600’s and before most people swam in the nude or in their undergarments. Keep in mind though that swimming wasn’t exactly a leisurely activity, it was more a method of bathing and usually done in shallow water since many people at the time couldn’t actually swim.
Swimsuits as we think of them came about in the 19th century. During this time women would wear a two piece gown from shoulder to knees plus a set of trousers with leggings going down to the ankles.
In 1907, the show swimmer Annette Kellerman’s swimsuit was considered indecent exposure because her swimsuit showed arms, legs and the neck
Over the years swimwear would be less restrictive and more revealing. The most iconic change in swimwear came with the bikini, named after Bikini Atoll, the site of several nuclear weapons tests, and first appeared after World War II.
Today swimsuits come in a wide range of styles. Modcloth recently put together a Swim-fographic, that takes a look at swimsuits through the ages.
Choosing A Swimsuit
Choosing a swimsuit can sometimes feel like a hard task. Luckily though, my favorite clothing store, ModCloth has a variety of styles that have great vintage flare and come in all sizes.
1940’s -1950’s
For a 1940’s look I suggest something like the Seasons of the Sun Swimsuit,it has a classic bikini look with high-waisted bottoms.
If you’re wanting a more 1950’s style I’d consider the Beach Blanket Bingo One-Piece Swimsuit. This one-piece swimsuit is flattering on every body type and those polka-dots are adorable.
1960’s -1970’s
The Well Worth the Wade Swimsuit, has a great 1960’s feel to it. This fun floral print bikini has a look that was popular in the 1960’s.
The string bikini was popular in the 1970’s and the Bayside Basics Swimsuit definitely hits the mark with that style.
Beach Body
No matter what style swimsuit you choose this summer, remember that size and body shape don’t matter!
Just as swimsuits come in all different styles so do people. Finding a swimsuit that you feel comfortable and confident is main goal.
For more swimwear choices check out: http://www.modcloth.com/shop/swimwear
Akram, I couldn’t agree with you more – your body RIGHT NOW is your beach body.
Love the Beach Blanket Bingo one piece, it’s my go to style!
Thanks Hollie. I would have to agree with you, the Beach Blanket Bingo swimsuit is my fave, as well.
Thirded, big time, on my end as well! I haven’t owned a swimsuit in quite a while, because swimming isn’t physically possible for me any more due to some of my conditions, and I’ve used it as a great way to cover up the fact that I loath my body in one, but you know, ultimately, the best thing you can wear to the beach or anyplace is confidence, and I think that if I can must that, I might just be able to talk myself into a swimsuit again (assuming it’s a vintage or vintage-y looking one, natch! :)).
Have a beautiful day – and summer, dear Akram!
♥ Jessica