Costume | Bathing

Developed in 1946 by Louis Réard, the bikini emerged partly due to wartime fabric rationing. Material Development

Early costumes were predominantly made of , which became dangerously heavy when wet. Modern swimwear transitioned to: history of the swimsuit, 18th century to modern bathing costume

Suits evolved into knee-length tunics worn over bloomers. Modesty was strictly enforced; women often used bathing machines —covered carriages rolled into the water—to enter the sea privately. Developed in 1946 by Louis Réard, the bikini