Women's Bathing and Swimming Costume in the United States

This study traces the transformation of women’s aquatic attire from the modest, full‑length bathing gowns of the colonial era to the sleek, functional swimwear of the twentieth century. By following changes in fashion, technology, and societal expectations, it shows how each shift in costume mirrored broader moves toward greater freedom and participation for women in public life and recreation.

Drawing on the author’s expertise as a costume curator and featuring period photographs and illustrations, the narrative situates each style within its cultural moment—whether driven by prevailing ideas of modesty, the rise of competitive sport, or the desire for comfort and practicality. Readers gain a clear picture of how a simple piece of clothing became a powerful symbol of women’s evolving status in American society, offering insight into the interplay of design, social norms, and the growing enthusiasm for swimming and leisure.