Swimwear has come a long way - from restrictive, full-coverage garments to today’s expressive and empowering designs. This blog takes a dive into the cultural and design evolution of women’s swimwear over the last 150 years.
Key Moments in Swimwear History:
👗 1800s–Early 1900s: Victorian Bathing Costumes
Women wore heavy wool dresses and bloomers into the water — modesty mattered more than mobility.
🖤 1920s–30s: Functional, Form-Fitting Designs
As women gained more freedom, swimsuits began to hug the body. Styles became sleeker, often inspired by athleticism and the emerging fitness culture.
👙 1946: The Birth of the Bikini
Invented by French designer Louis Réard, the bikini was revolutionary — and controversial. It took decades (and Brigitte Bardot) for it to become globally accepted.
🔥 1990s–2000s: High-Cuts, Low Backs & Pop Culture Influence
Thanks to Baywatch, music videos, and supermodels, swimwear got bolder. High-leg suits and vibrant colors took over beaches worldwide. Nayomi touch: Check out our St Cruz swimsuit, that low back and bold red color takes you straight into a scene from Baywatch.
🌊 Today: Sustainability, Comfort & Self-Expression
Modern swimwear champions body positivity, multi-functionality, and earth-friendly fabrics — just like Nayomi Swim does.