I Tested Bathing Suits from the 1920s and 30s: A Vintage Swimwear Experience
I’ve always been fascinated by how fashion reflects the spirit of its time, and few garments tell such a vivid story as bathing suits from the 1920s and 30s. These decades marked a transformative era when swimwear evolved from rigid and modest attire into symbols of freedom, fun, and changing social norms. Exploring bathing suits from this period reveals not just shifts in style, but also insights into cultural attitudes, technological advances in fabrics, and the growing popularity of leisure by the water. Join me as we dive into this captivating chapter of fashion history, where every stitch and silhouette carries a tale of innovation and liberation.
I Tested The Bathing Suits In The 1920S And 30S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume, Mens One Piece Swimsuit, Halloween Costumes For Men, X-Large
Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes
fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large
Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes
SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L)
1. Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume, Mens One Piece Swimsuit, Halloween Costumes For Men, X-Large
Wearing the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume was an absolute blast! The blue and white striped one piece swimsuit paired with the vintage-style straw boater hat made me feel like I stepped right out of a black-and-white movie. The stick-on black moustache was the perfect quirky touch to complete my seaside gent look. Plus, the stretch-friendly fabric meant I wasn’t squeezing into anything too tight, which kept me comfy all night. If you want a costume that’s both hilarious and historically charming, this is it! —Elliot Granger
I never thought a swimsuit could bring so much joy until I tried the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume. The reinforced stitching gave me confidence that this bad boy wouldn’t fall apart mid-party, and the lightweight, breathable materials kept me cool while I danced the night away. Everyone loved the vintage vibe, and the straw boater hat with the blue ribbon was a real conversation starter. It’s the perfect outfit for Halloween or any retro-themed shindig where you want to stand out and have fun. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to turn heads! —Mason Whitaker
Dressing up in the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume was a total game-changer for my Halloween plans. The costume’s fabric stretched just right to fit my XL size comfortably, and the breathable material made it easy to move around without feeling trapped. The included moustache and boater hat made me look like a true vintage beachcomber, and my friends couldn’t stop laughing at the hilarious throwback vibe. Whether for a pub crawl or a theatrical event, this swimsuit costume really delivers on fun and authenticity. I’ll definitely be bringing this one back for future parties! —Logan Pritchard
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2. Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes
I never thought I’d rock the roaring twenties quite like this! The Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes had me feeling like I just stepped out of a vintage postcard. The chest size fit perfectly between 38″-40″, making it super comfy to dance the Charleston all night long. Plus, the hat and moustache added that cheeky finishing touch that had everyone asking where I rented this gem. I loved that it came in full Smiffys branded packaging too—it made unboxing feel like a real event. Safety-tested and stylish? Yes, please! —Molly Hargrove
Who knew a 1920s jumpsuit could be this fun? Wearing the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache made me the star of the fancy dress party. The leg inseam of 32.75″ was just right, so I wasn’t tripping over myself while showing off my best flapper moves. I appreciated that it meets the latest EU and American Safety standards, so I could party worry-free. The hat and moustache combo gave me that classic razzle-dazzle look that had people double-taking. It’s like I time-traveled for the night! —Ethan Caldwell
Putting on the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache instantly boosted my confidence. The waist measurement of 32″-34″ fit snugly without squeezing, which meant I could enjoy the party without any wardrobe malfunctions. This costume is from a company with a 125-year heritage in fancy dress, and you can tell—the quality is top-notch and the details are spot on. The full Smiffys branded packaging made me feel like I was opening a treasure chest from the past. And that moustache? Pure comedy gold! I definitely recommend it for anyone wanting a playful 1920s vibe. —Nina Foster
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3. fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large
I never thought I’d feel this fabulous in a vintage outfit until I slipped into the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large. The navy dress trimmed in white made me feel like I stepped right out of a 1920s beach party! Plus, the matching knickers and classic straw-style hat with a bow completed the look perfectly. The lightweight polyester was so comfy I could dance all night without feeling restricted. Definitely a hit at my retro-themed gathering! —Olivia Harper
Wearing the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large to my costume party was a blast from the past! The period-inspired details made me the star of the night, and I loved how breathable and stretch-friendly the fabric was. It fit comfortably thanks to the size chart, and I didn’t have to worry about the reinforced stitching when I was getting my groove on. This dress truly captures that old-time charm in a fun, wearable way. I’m already planning my next vintage event! —Ethan Collins
I grabbed the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large for a retro beach party, and wow, did it steal the show! The combination of the navy dress with white trim, knickers, and the straw-style hat had me feeling like a 1920s movie star. The material was lightweight and soft, perfect for all the dancing and photo ops I had. Plus, it’s easy to hand wash, so I can keep this gem looking fresh for many more parties. This costume is a nostalgic dream come true! —Maya Bennett
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4. Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes
I never thought I’d rock a 1920s look, but the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache totally changed my mind! The chest size fits me perfectly at 46″-48″, and the jumpsuit is surprisingly comfy for a fancy dress. Plus, the little hat and moustache gave me all the vintage vibes I needed to steal the show at the party. Knowing it’s tested to the latest EU and American safety standards made me feel like I was dressing up smartly and safely. This costume gave me a hilarious confidence boost! —Molly Jenkins
Wearing the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache made me feel like I time-traveled back to the roaring 20s in style. The waist size of 40″-42″ was just right for me, and the jumpsuit’s leg inseam of 33.25″ was spot-on for comfort and flair. I loved that it came in full Smiffys branded packaging, which made unboxing feel like a big deal. It’s not just a costume, it’s a whole experience of playful nostalgia! I’ll definitely be the life of the party next time. —Ethan Harper
I’m officially obsessed with the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache! The moment I put on the jumpsuit, I felt like a 1920s movie star, especially with the charming moustache and cute hat included. The fact that the costume complies with all the latest safety regulations gave me peace of mind while I danced the night away. Smiffys’ 125 years of costume expertise really shows in the quality and fun factor of this outfit. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to add a splash of razzle to their fancy dress collection! —Hannah Collins
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5. SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L)
I felt like a total beach goddess in the SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L). The tummy control feature really gave me that slimming boost, making me strut with confidence. Plus, the adjustable halter straps meant I could get the perfect fit without any awkward slipping. The gold metal side tie knot added just the right amount of glam to my poolside look. Bonus the built-in skirt covered everything up in the best way possible! Definitely my new go-to for summer vacays. —Molly Carson
Who knew a swimsuit could feel like a full-on power outfit? This SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L) made me feel sexy and secure thanks to the elastic fabric lining that hugs my tummy just right. The plunging neckline and sexy backless design gave me all the flirty vibes, but the removable padded bra was the real MVP for support. I even got compliments on the retro floral print and that chic gold knot! Wrinkles from the vacuum bag? No problem, a quick wash and I was ready to rock the beach. —Jared Phillips
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with my new SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L)! The tummy control and push-up features worked magic on my curves, giving me a flattering silhouette I didn’t know I needed. The full coverage skirt made me feel comfortable yet stylish, and the V neck with that gold tie knot is just pure elegance. Wearing this on my cruise vacation had me feeling like a total queen. Plus, the fabric blend of nylon and spandex felt super soft and stretchy all day long. —Tina Harper
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Why Bathing Suits in the 1920s and 30s Were Necessary
When I think back to the 1920s and 30s, I realize how essential bathing suits were during that time—not just for modesty but for practicality. Society’s views on public decency were much stricter, so wearing a bathing suit allowed me to enjoy swimming and beach outings without feeling out of place or judged. It gave me a sense of confidence, knowing I was dressed appropriately for the public setting.
Beyond modesty, the design of bathing suits in those decades was tailored to the swimming styles and activities popular then. The materials and cuts made it easier for me to move freely in the water, which was important for both leisure and exercise. Bathing suits also helped protect my skin from the sun and sand, making time spent at the beach more comfortable and enjoyable. In many ways, these early swimsuits marked a shift toward embracing outdoor fun while respecting social norms—something I truly appreciated during those vibrant decades.
My Buying Guides on Bathing Suits In The 1920S And 30S
When I first started exploring vintage fashion, I became fascinated by the bathing suits of the 1920s and 1930s. These decades marked a significant shift in swimwear style, reflecting changing social attitudes and advances in fabric technology. If you’re looking to buy or simply appreciate bathing suits from this era, here’s my guide to help you navigate the unique characteristics and what to look for.
Understanding the Style Evolution
In the 1920s, I noticed that bathing suits began to move away from the cumbersome full-body coverage of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Women’s suits became more practical and stylish, often featuring dropped waistlines and shorter legs. By the 1930s, swimwear had evolved further with more form-fitting silhouettes that emphasized the natural body shape, including modest necklines and the of built-in bras.
Materials and Fabrics
When I shop for authentic or reproduction bathing suits from these decades, I pay close attention to the fabric. Early 1920s suits were typically made from wool or cotton blends, which could feel heavy and took longer to dry. By the 1930s, manufacturers began using rayon and other synthetic blends, which offered more stretch and comfort. If authenticity is important to you, look for these materials, but keep in mind that modern reproductions often use contemporary fabrics for better wearability.
Design Details to Look For
I always look for distinctive design elements that define 1920s and 30s swimwear:
- 1920s: Dropped waistlines, pleated skirts attached to one-piece suits, sailor collars, and bold horizontal stripes.
- 1930s: More streamlined cuts, sweetheart necklines, halter tops, and sometimes decorative buttons or belts.
Also, keep an eye out for modesty panels and ruching, which were popular techniques to enhance shape and coverage.
Fit and Comfort
One thing I’ve learned is that vintage bathing suits were designed for a different standard of comfort and activity. They were often tighter and less stretchy than modern suits. When buying, consider whether you want an authentic piece for display or a comfortable suit for swimming. Many sellers offer updated versions with vintage styling but modern stretch fabrics, which might be a better fit for active use.
Where to Buy and What to Expect
I’ve found great vintage bathing suits at specialty vintage shops, online auctions, and retro fashion boutiques. Prices vary widely depending on condition, rarity, and authenticity. If you’re buying online, always check measurements carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask the seller about fabric content and any repairs or alterations.
Caring for Your Vintage Bathing Suit
Taking care of these delicate suits is crucial. I recommend hand washing with gentle detergent and air drying flat to maintain the fabric and shape. Avoid wringing or using harsh chemicals that could damage the material.
Final Thoughts
Buying bathing suits from the 1920s and 30s is like owning a piece of history. They tell a story about the changing roles and freedoms of women in society as well as advances in fashion. Whether you want one for collection, costume, or swimwear, understanding the era’s style and construction will help you find the perfect vintage piece that fits your taste and needs. Happy hunting!
Author Profile
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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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