Bathing costumes

While the 1920s started the trend for leisure activities like swimming, it was economic changes in the 1930s that made swimming a pastime for everyone -- not just those lucky enough to live near a beach. The New Deal funded community pools to open up around the country. Cheap entry prices made swimming an affordable

Scanned real photo postcard

Before we hit the pool or shore this summer, we're taking a look back at how the swimsuit has evolved through the years. From wool shorts to corsets, this might be what you need to appreciate your faithful tankini.

Cardigans, rain macs and Wellington boots have inspired the beachwear collection of John Lewis. It took the British summer as inspiration as recession-hit families choose to holiday in the UK.

Introducing the Billie – Inspired by the 80s, this one-piece long sleeve swimsuit is the ultimate must-have for the season. Embrace high fashion and retro charm with this backless, cheeky design that's set to become your summer staple. Designed to fit like a second skin, the Billie accentuates your best attributes, making you feel confident and fabulous as you frolic in the ocean. Its high neck and open back create a striking silhouette, while the bow tie neck closure adds a touch of playful…

Policemen measure a woman in a bathing suit, circa 1920.

men's vintage swimwear | Three men, vintage swimwear, circa 1910

Think it’s hot at the beach these days? Imagine wearing wool, which is what the first garments we’d recognize as swimsuits were made of. But maybe wool had its charms. Just check out these interesting vintage photographs below and see how swimsuits evolved from Victorian times to the bikini Age. A woman wearing a fashionable bathing costume, circa 1870. (Hulton Archive—Getty Images) Holidaymakers posing in bathing suits in the ocean surf at Santa Monica, Calif., circa 1890. (American Stock…