10 Vintage Bathing Suits That Would Raise Eyebrows Now

Fashion is constantly evolving, and what was once considered stylish and daring can seem downright bizarre by today’s standards. Nowhere is this more evident than in the world of vintage swimwear.

From excessive coverage to barely-there designs, these 10 bathing suits from the past would definitely turn heads, and maybe even spark controversy, if worn at the beach today!

1. The Modest Bathing Dress (1800s-early 1900s)

Before swimsuits looked anything like they do today, women wore full-length dresses with bloomers underneath to maintain modesty. Weights were often sewn into the hem to prevent skirts from floating up.

Good luck trying to swim in one of these! The design was more about modesty than practicality, making modern-day wearers likely to receive amused and astonished glances.

2. The Wool Swimsuit (1900s-1920s)

Yes, you read that right—swimsuits were once made of wool! These full-body, heavy-knit suits soaked up water like a sponge, making swimming more of a struggle than a sport.

Imagine showing up to the beach today in one of these itchy, sagging outfits! Despite their impracticality, they were the norm for decades. Today, wearing one would certainly attract puzzled looks and maybe even some curiosity.

3. The Skirted Romper Suit (1930s-1940s)

While rompers are making a fashion comeback, the skirted swimsuit romper of the ‘30s and ‘40s would look more like a cute picnic outfit than beachwear today.

With puffy shorts and a belted waist, it was fashionable then but would seem oddly formal for a day at the pool now. This charming yet peculiar style would raise a few eyebrows today.

4. The Cork-Lined “Life Preserver” Swimsuit (1920s)

Before modern flotation devices, some swimsuits were designed with cork panels sewn in to help swimmers stay afloat. Practical in theory, these suits made wearers look more like they were prepping for battle than a casual swim.

Imagine the surprise on modern beachgoers’ faces! Though innovative, this style would be met with amusement and curiosity today.

5. The Cone Bra Swimsuit (1950s)

Inspired by the structured lingerie of the time, swimsuits with cone-shaped, bullet-style bras were all the rage in the ‘50s.

Today, this exaggerated silhouette would definitely get a few confused glances at the beach! While iconic, the dramatic look might be considered more a fashion statement than practical swimwear today.

6. The Barely-There Chain Bikini (1960s-1970s)

A step ahead of its time (and a step away from practicality), the chain bikini featured metal links instead of fabric straps.

It was stylish but definitely not built for comfort—or a serious swim. Imagine dealing with tan lines from that! This bold fashion choice would certainly prompt conversations at the beach.

7. The Transparent Plastic Swimsuit (1960s)

Fashion experiments of the ‘60s brought us see-through vinyl and plastic swimwear. While they may have looked futuristic, they were hot, sticky, and not exactly ideal for a sunny beach day.

A completely clear swimsuit? Definitely a fashion risk. It would be a curious sight today, sparking intrigue and maybe even controversy.

8. The High-Cut Aerobics Bodysuit Swimsuit (1980s)

The ‘80s brought high-cut leotards and swimsuits that climbed all the way up to the waist, leaving little to the imagination.

While modern suits still favor high-leg cuts, these over-the-top versions would probably raise a few eyebrows. The dramatic style was bold and athletic, but perhaps too daring for some in today’s world.

9. The Collar and Belt Swimsuit (1950s-1960s)

A swimsuit with a built-in collar and belt? That was peak beach fashion in the ‘50s and ‘60s.

While undeniably chic, today it would seem like a mix between business attire and poolside wear. This sophisticated look would surely catch eyes at the beach, blending elegance with an unusual flair.

10. The Ruffled Swimsuit with Hoop Skirt (1920s-1930s)

Some vintage swimsuits came with ruffles, frills, and even hoop skirts to add volume. While charming in an old Hollywood way, these outfits would seem hilariously over-the-top at a modern beach.

The theatrical style would definitely attract attention, blending nostalgia with beach day whimsy.