The bikini, a two-piece swimsuit for women, has become one of the most iconic symbols of beachwear and summer fun. Once viewed as controversial—even shocking by some standards—it has solidified its place in fashion over the last seven decades.
Since 2000, bikini sales have consistently generated around $1 billion annually, though estimates vary. Scholars of fashion and sociology often interpret the bikini as either a symbol of female empowerment emerging during the 1950s and 60s or, conversely, as a representation of objectification. For most consumers, however, it simply represents a timeless image of summer leisure. Regardless of one’s view, the bikini has undeniably influenced women’s swimwear and beach fashion.
Ancient imagery of two-piece garments dates back to early civilizations, with portrayals of women in similar attire seen as early as 5,600 B.C. Roman depictions, especially in Pompeii, include mosaics of goddesses in two-piece outfits, providing a historic precursor to modern swimwear.
In the 20th century, the journey to the bikini began with swimwear designer Carl Jentzen, who in 1913 created two-piece suits for competitive female swimmers, marking a shift in women’s swimwear. However, it wasn’t until 1946 that the bikini as we know it appeared. Two French designers separately unveiled their versions that summer: Jacques Heim’s “Atome” and, just days later, Louis Réard’s “Bikini,” inspired by atomic tests on Bikini Atoll days earlier. Although Réard faced difficulties getting models to wear his creation, burlesque dancer Micheline Bernardini became the first to pose in it, cementing its place in fashion history.
In 1953, actress Brigitte Bardot popularized the bikini when she posed in one at the Cannes Film Festival. Soon after, the bikini became increasingly common on the beaches of Europe and beyond. As fun as a girl in a bikini is BIKINISLOTS all the fun of gaming bikini style.
Criticism followed swiftly in the 1950s, with publications like Modern Girl Magazine condemning it, and fashion designer Anne Cole likening it to the “razor’s edge of decency.” Yet this disapproval may have only amplified its popularity. In 1960, Brian Hyland’s hit song “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” and films like How to Stuff a Wild Bikini helped the bikini enter mainstream American culture. In 1962, Ursula Andress furthered its allure in Dr. No, creating the “Bond Girl” legacy.
During the social upheavals of the 1960s, the bikini became a cultural emblem, with Sports Illustrated launching its Swimsuit Issue in 1964. Later, Raquel Welch’s appearance in a fur bikini for One Million Years B.C. in 1966 fueled its popularity.
In the 1970s, supermodel Cheryl Tiegs introduced the “string bikini,” a style that followed the era’s progressive trends. The 1980s saw the rise of the G-string bikini, which sparked debate due to its risqué design. In response, designers reintroduced more modest styles, like the tankini, that offered greater coverage while maintaining the two-piece form.
The bikini’s status as sportswear was highlighted when beach volleyball made its Olympic debut in 1996, with athletes like Gabrielle Reece showcasing bikinis adapted for competition. Today, the bikini is a staple for women of all ages and backgrounds, symbolizing athleticism, fashion, and freedom. National Bikini Day, celebrated on July 5, honors the garment’s debut in 1946 and its lasting impact.
About Author
