History of Swimwear - What is Represents for Women’s Freedom in Dressing

Can you imagine that our summer staples, swimsuits didn’t exist? Well, until 1700s, there was no such a thing as ‘a special garment for swimming’. What happens afterwards is a great representation of the difficulties women faced with regards to their freedom.

The news about swimming being a very healthy activity made it popular. However it was by mid 1800s when swimming became a recreational activity. Before travelling became easy, thanks to the improvements of transportation methods, only people who lived close to the sea used to go swimming.   

Even when it became more common for people away from the sea to go swimming for leisure, the swimsuits were far from how we know them. Until 1880s, women used to wear chemise gowns that became increasingly fitting as time went by. In 1880s, women still needed to cover their body now by wearing, baggy trousers, called bloomers, and a dress on top. The fabrics were chosen not to float up in the water, and it wasn’t the ideal outfit to go for a swim. This led to some women who can afford to have their own ‘bathing machines’ (small cabins) in which they can prance around. 

The swimsuits in 1800s are reflect how women were perceived those times; modest and overshadowed. However, as women’s water activities became more common and acceptable, the trousers got shortened so that it was not visible under the skirt, giving women more freedom in movement.

By the beginning of 1900s, women started competing in the newly popular sport; swimming. As the once-recreational activity became much more technical and professional, the designs for the swimsuits transformed into a more practical versions.  

The story of resilience: Annette Kellerman

Annette Kellerman is a significant name in the swimsuit history as well as women’s rights history. She was called ‘the Australian Mermaid’ thanks to her skills in swimming. She contributed in aiding women participate in swimming as a sport. When she was asked to perform to the Royal Family, she wore an unconventional swimming suit, a fitting and shorter one, which caused a problem. She was asked to wear the traditional swimsuit, which she refused to wear as it restricted her movements.