Edwardian woman’s swimming costume top

Datec 1900

Object number00016509

NameSwimsuit

MediumMercerised cotton

DimensionsOverall: 910 mm, 0.05 kg

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThe generous smock top of this homemade costume billowed in the wind and buoyed in the water. Its style made swimming difficult, while its weight when wet made it positively dangerous. The draw string waistline reduced the billow and enhanced the silhouette of the swimmer but did little to remove the danger of drowning in drapes.
HistoryBy the early 1900s a thriving tourist industry had become well established around the seaside towns of Australia. The beach had become a place for rest and recreation. During this period, known as the Edwardian period, women bathed in knee-length dresses, often featuring a sailor collar. These were worn over bloomers or drawers trimmed with ribbon or bows. This outfit was generally accessorised with black stockings, lace-up boots or sandals and cloth caps.
SignificanceThis costume was produced in the Edwardian period, and illustrates the changes in swimwear style from the 1900s to today.