The beach has always been a place where people can express their personal style. Over the decades, beach fashion has undergone several transformations. From the roaring 20s to the groovy 70s and beyond, here’s a look at the iconic beach fashion styles that have stood the test of time.
The Roaring 20s
In the 1920s, women began to challenge the traditional dress codes by wearing shorter hemlines and looser clothing. On the beach, swimsuits evolved from full-body dresses to sleeveless one-piece suits with high necklines. The swimsuits were often made of wool, making them heavy and uncomfortable when wet. Women completed their beach look with oversized sun hats and parasols.
The Fabulous 50s
The 1950s was an era of glamour and elegance, and beach fashion was no exception. Women’s swimsuits became more form-fitting, with a nipped-in waist and a full skirt. The bikini was also introduced in 1946, but it wasn’t until the 50s that it gained widespread popularity. Men’s swimsuits remained relatively unchanged, with the classic trunks that are still worn today.
The Swinging 60s
The 1960s was a decade of social change, and beach fashion reflected the new cultural values. Swimsuits became even more revealing, with high-cut legs and plunging necklines. Bright colors and bold patterns were also in vogue, with psychedelic prints becoming a popular choice. Men’s swimsuits became shorter, and the Speedo was introduced, which is still a popular choice for competitive swimmers today.
The Groovy 70s
The 1970s was all about comfort, and beach fashion was no exception. Women’s swimsuits were made of stretchy fabrics, with halter necklines and low backs. The bikini continued to be popular, with the introduction of the string bikini. Men’s swimsuits became even shorter, with the introduction of the “banana hammock” style. Accessories such as sunglasses, floppy hats, and beaded necklaces completed the beach look.
The Retro 90s
In the 1990s, beach fashion took a nostalgic turn, with a resurgence of 60s and 70s styles. One-piece swimsuits with high-cut legs and low backs became popular, as well as the classic triangle bikini. Board shorts became the preferred style for men, with longer lengths and looser fits. Accessories such as chokers, bucket hats, and oversized sunglasses completed the retro beach look.
The Contemporary Look
Today, beach fashion is all about individual expression. Swimsuits come in a variety of styles, from classic one-piece suits to high-waisted bikinis and sporty rash guards. Prints and patterns are still popular, but solid colors and minimalist designs are also in vogue. Men’s swimsuits continue to be simple and functional, with classic trunks and board shorts remaining popular choices. Accessories such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and beach totes complete the contemporary beach look.
Beach fashion has undergone several transformations over the decades. From the modest one-piece suits of the 1920s to the revealing bikinis of the 60s and beyond, beach fashion has reflected the changing cultural values and attitudes towards body image. Today, beach fashion is all about individual expression, with a variety of styles and designs available to suit any taste. Whether you prefer a retro or contemporary look, the beach is a place to have fun, soak up the sun, and show off your personal style.