Woman’s Swimsuit

The change to form-fitting, limb-revealing clothing for beaches and pools was also reflected in a new name, swimsuits, which made clear the athletic pursuit of swimming, which the garments facilitated. The older term, “bathing suits,” suggested a less strenuous activity of wading in the water.

At first, the new styles resulted in scandals and even arrests, especially for women. But by 1930, fashion designers took notice, and decorative details began to appear, such as these contrasting pockets and shoulder straps, which cross the back to tie as a belt.