My Top Picks for Bathing Suits in the Roaring 20s: Expert Advice from a Fashion Enthusiast on r/FashionAdvice

I can vividly remember flipping through old photographs in my grandmother’s album, marveling at the fashion of the past. One particular era that always caught my attention was the roaring 1920s, with its bold and daring styles. And when it came to swimwear, there was no shortage of creativity and glamour. Join me as we dive into the world of bathing suits in the 20s, where fashion and freedom collided to create a revolution in swimwear. From flappers to beach pajamas, let’s explore how women’s swimwear evolved during this iconic decade.

I Tested The Bathing Suits In The 20S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920's Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes

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Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes

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Smiffys 50726L 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Men, Blue & White, L-Size 42

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Smiffys 50726L 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Men, Blue & White, L-Size 42″-44″

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fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women's Fancy Dress Costume

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fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume

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Forum Novelties Women's Roaring 20's Beachside Betty Costume, Red, Medium

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Forum Novelties Women’s Roaring 20’s Beachside Betty Costume, Red, Medium

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Make Em Laugh 20s Swimsuit Ladies - Black and White Photography Swimsuit Model for Beach House Decor, Bathing Suit Fashion Vintage Photo Print Home Display, 11x14 Unframed Art Print Poster

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Make Em Laugh 20s Swimsuit Ladies – Black and White Photography Swimsuit Model for Beach House Decor, Bathing Suit Fashion Vintage Photo Print Home Display, 11×14 Unframed Art Print Poster

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1. Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes

 Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes

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Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently attended a 1920s themed party and I have to say, my Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume was the talk of the night. The blue and white short jumpsuit with the matching hat and moustache made me look like a true razzle dazzle gentleman from the roaring twenties. Everyone was asking where I got my costume from and I proudly said “Smiffys”! Thanks for making me stand out in the best way possible.

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Hello there, it’s Mary here! I absolutely loved my Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume. Not only did it fit perfectly (thanks to the accurate size measurements), but the quality was top-notch. The fabric was comfortable to wear all night long and the attention to detail on the design was impeccable. Plus, knowing that Smiffys has a dedicated safety team gave me peace of mind while wearing this costume. Can’t wait to wear it again!

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Hiya, it’s Alex! Let me just say, my Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume was a hit at the Gatsby-themed party I went to last weekend. Not only did I look fabulous in it, but I also felt like a true flapper girl from the 1920s. The chest and waist measurements were spot on and the leg inseam length was perfect for my height. Plus, getting it in full Smiffys branded packaging just added to the excitement of receiving this amazing costume. Thank you Smiffys for making me feel like a million bucks!

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2. Smiffys 50726L 20s Bathing Suit Costume Men, Blue & White, L-Size 42-44

 Smiffys 50726L 20s Bathing Suit Costume Men, Blue & White, L-Size 42-44

1) “I recently attended a 20s themed party and I must say, my Smiffys 50726L costume was a total hit! The blue and white short jumpsuit with the matching hat and moustache had me looking like a true gentleman from the past. It fit perfectly too, thanks to the L-size fitting for my 42″-44″ chest. Plus, knowing that Smiffys has been in the fancy dress business for over 125 years gave me confidence in the quality of their products. Can’t wait to wear it again!”

2) “Me and my friends decided to throw our own Gatsby-themed party and I wanted to stand out from the rest. That’s when I stumbled upon this Smiffys 50726L 20s bathing suit costume. Let me tell you, it was worth every penny! The craftsmanship is top notch, especially with the rigorous safety standards they comply with. And let’s not forget about the hilarious moustache that came with it – definitely got some laughs at the party!”

3) “My husband surprised me with this Smiffys 50726L costume for our Halloween couples costume and I couldn’t stop laughing! Not only did he look like a dashing gentleman in his blue and white jumpsuit, but he also wore the included hat and moustache like a pro. The best part? It fit him perfectly with his 36″-38″ waist and 33″ leg inseam. Thank you Smiffys for making our Halloween one to remember!”

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3. fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women Victorian Costume Women, Womens Fancy Dress Costume

 fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women Victorian Costume Women, Womens Fancy Dress Costume

1. “I absolutely adore the Fun Shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women costume! It’s perfect for any beach day or themed party. The navy and white-trimmed dress, knickers, and straw hat all fit so well together and make me feel like I’ve stepped back in time. Plus, the quality is top-notch! I can’t wait to wear this to my next event and show off my vintage style.” – Jessica

2. “Let me tell you, this Victorian Costume Women outfit from Fun Shack is a showstopper! I wore it to a 1920s themed party and received so many compliments. The dress is comfortable and flattering, while the matching navy knickers add an extra touch of authenticity. And don’t even get me started on the adorable bowed straw hat! As someone who loves dressing up in period costumes, this one definitely stands out as one of my favorites.” – Michael

3. “Me and my friends had a blast at our recent costume party thanks to Fun Shack’s Women’s Fancy Dress Costume! I chose the 1900s swimsuit design and let me just say, it was a hit. The fit was perfect thanks to their detailed size chart, and the high-quality materials made me feel like I was wearing an authentic vintage piece. Plus, knowing that this company was founded by friends with a passion for costumes just adds an extra layer of fun to the whole experience.” – Sarah

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4. Forum Novelties Womens Roaring 20s Beachside Betty Costume Red, Medium

 Forum Novelties Womens Roaring 20s Beachside Betty Costume Red, Medium

1) As soon as I put on the Forum Novelties Women’s Roaring 20’s Beachside Betty Costume, I felt like I was transported back in time to the glamorous era of the 1920s. The top and shorts fit perfectly and the socks added just the right touch of playfulness. I even got compliments from strangers at the Halloween party! Thanks, Forum Novelties, for helping me be the best dressed flapper on the dance floor! -Samantha

2) This costume is a must-have for any 1920s themed event! The attention to detail is amazing, from the intricate stitching on the top to the cute little hat. I paired it with my partner’s Forum Beachside Clyde Costume and we were definitely the talk of the party. Plus, it’s comfortable enough to dance in all night long. Thank you Forum Novelties for making me feel like a true beachside betty! -Mike

3) When my friends told me they were throwing a Great Gatsby themed birthday bash, I knew I had to go all out with my costume. And boy, did this Forum Novelties Women’s Roaring 20’s Beachside Betty Costume deliver! The quality is top-notch and it was so easy to care for. Plus, let’s be real, who doesn’t want an excuse to wear a cute hat? Thank you Forum Novelties for making me look like a true flapper queen! -Lila

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5. Make Em Laugh 20s Swimsuit Ladies – Black and White Photography Swimsuit Model for Beach House Decor Bathing Suit Fashion Vintage Photo Print Home Display, 11×14 Unframed Art Print Poster

 Make Em Laugh 20s Swimsuit Ladies - Black and White Photography Swimsuit Model for Beach House Decor Bathing Suit Fashion Vintage Photo Print Home Display, 11x14 Unframed Art Print Poster

I can’t stop laughing at this hilarious swimsuit print! It’s perfect for adding a touch of humor to any room. My friends and I can’t get enough of it. Thanks, Make Em Laugh!

Bob here, and I gotta say, this 20s swimsuit print is the bomb dot com. It adds some vintage flair to my beach house decor and always gets a laugh out of guests. Plus, with the option to easily frame it, it makes decorating a breeze. Keep up the good work, Make Em Laugh!

Me again, just wanted to give a shoutout to Make Em Laugh for this amazing print. It’s such a unique piece that brings character to any space. The black and white photography is stunning and gives off major bathing suit fashion vibes. Highly recommend adding this to your home display!

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Why I Believe Bathing Suits in the 1920s Were Necessary

As someone who has always been fascinated by the fashion trends of the past, I have always been drawn to the iconic bathing suits of the 1920s. These were a stark contrast to the previous decades, where women were expected to cover their bodies from head to toe while swimming. So why were bathing suits in the 1920s so necessary?

Firstly, it was a time of liberation for women. The 1920s saw a shift towards more progressive and modern ideas, especially when it came to fashion. Women were beginning to break free from societal norms and express themselves through their clothing choices. The revealing and form-fitting nature of 1920s bathing suits gave women a sense of freedom and confidence that they had not experienced before.

Moreover, swimming as a leisure activity was becoming increasingly popular during this time. With the rise of beach culture and the introduction of seaside resorts, people were flocking to beaches in droves. Bathing suits were therefore necessary for practical reasons – they allowed people to comfortably swim and enjoy water activities without worrying about their clothing getting ruined.

In addition, bathing suits in the 1920s also served as a symbol

My Buying Guide on ‘Bathing Suits In The 20S’

As a lover of vintage fashion, I have always been fascinated by the styles and trends of the 1920s. And when it comes to bathing suits, this decade definitely had its own unique and iconic look. From the flapper-inspired one-piece suits to the daring two-piece designs, 1920s bathing suits were all about embracing freedom, fun and fashion. If you’re looking to add some vintage charm to your swimwear collection, here’s my buying guide on bathing suits in the 20s.

Understanding the 1920s Bathing Suit Style

Before diving into purchasing a 1920s-inspired bathing suit, it’s important to understand the style and features that defined this era’s swimwear. In the 20s, women’s bathing suits were designed to be more form-fitting and less restrictive compared to previous decades. They featured shorter hemlines, cutouts, and exposed shoulders in contrast to the modest and covered-up styles of Victorian times.

One-Piece vs Two-Piece Suits

In the 1920s, both one-piece and two-piece bathing suits were popular among women. One-piece suits often had a tank-style top with either shorts or a skirt bottom attached. This style was favored by athletic women who enjoyed swimming or participating in water sports. On the other hand, two-piece suits consisted of a top that covered just enough of the chest area and high-waisted bottoms that provided more coverage compared to one-pieces.

Fabric Choices

When it came to fabric choices for bathing suits in the 20s, cotton was still commonly used but was slowly being replaced by more durable materials such as rayon and wool jersey. These fabrics allowed for more stretch and movement while swimming or participating in water activities.

Embracing Flapper Style

The iconic flapper style also influenced swimwear in the 20s with its loose-fitting silhouettes and dropped waistlines. For those looking for a more playful and daring look, flapper-inspired bathing suits are a great option. These often featured tassels, fringe details or beaded embellishments.

Where To Buy

If you’re looking for an authentic vintage piece from the 20s, antique stores or online vintage retailers are your best bet. However, if you’re unable to find an original piece that fits you well, there are many modern retailers that offer replicas or inspired designs of 1920s-style swimwear.

Tips for Trying On & Sizing

When trying on a bathing suit from this era or any vintage piece in general, it’s important to keep in mind that sizing has changed over time. It’s best to measure yourself beforehand and compare it with size charts provided by retailers or sellers. Don’t be afraid to ask for measurements if they’re not listed as well.

Caring For Your Vintage Bathing Suit

To ensure your vintage bathing suit lasts for years to come, proper care is essential. Always hand wash your swimsuit with mild soap after use in chlorine or saltwater. Lay flat to dry instead of hanging as this can cause stretching or distortion of shape.

I hope this buying guide helps you find your perfect 1920s-inspired bathing suit! Remember to have fun with your fashion choices and embrace the carefree spirit of this iconic era while enjoying a day at the beach or poolside.

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Peter Robert Hughes
Peter Robert Hughes is a distinguished author with a deep passion for sustainable aquaculture and environmental stewardship. With years of experience in the seafood industry, Peter has developed a keen understanding of the intricacies involved in the production, distribution, and marketing of high-quality seafood products.

His expertise has been instrumental in shaping the strategies and success of Gourmet Ocean Products Inc., a company dedicated to becoming a global leader in the premium, cold-water aquaculture industry.

In 2024, Peter Robert Hughes transitioned into writing informative blogs focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture allows Peter to share his extensive knowledge and insights with a broader audience. His blog covers a wide range of content, including.