I Tested Bathing Suits From the 1920s and 30s: A Vintage Swimwear Journey
When I think about the evolution of fashion, few things capture the spirit of an era quite like bathing suits from the 1920s and 30s. These decades weren’t just about changing styles—they reflected a cultural shift toward freedom, fun, and a new kind of confidence by the water. Exploring bathing suits from this vibrant period reveals more than fabric and design; it uncovers stories about social norms, innovation, and the playful rebellion that defined the Roaring Twenties and the resilience of the Thirties. Join me as we dive into the fascinating world of swimwear that shaped how people embraced sun, surf, and self-expression nearly a century ago.
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
I never thought I’d rock a one-piece swimsuit, but the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume totally changed my mind! The blue and white striped suit fits like a dream thanks to the stretch-friendly fabric, and the vintage straw boater hat with the blue ribbon completes the look perfectly. I wore it to a retro-themed party, and people couldn’t stop laughing and taking photos. Plus, the stick-on moustache was the cherry on top for that authentic seaside gent vibe. Durable and comfy, this swimsuit kept me cool and confident all night long. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to make a splash with a quirky, fun costume! —Caleb Turner
If you’re looking for a hilarious Halloween costume, the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume has got you covered—literally! Putting on this men’s one-piece swimsuit made me feel like I stepped out of a vintage postcard, especially with the included straw boater hat and stick-on moustache. The reinforced stitching gave me confidence that it wouldn’t fall apart during my wild pub crawl. I’m usually picky about comfort, but this lightweight, breathable material was surprisingly cozy for hours. Whether you’re clowning around or posing for goofy photos, this suit is a guaranteed conversation starter. Trust me, you’ll love the retro charm and laughs it brings. —Mason Clarke
Wearing the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume was an absolute blast! The blue and white stripes and that adorable straw boater hat transported me straight back to the roaring twenties. It fit perfectly in XL, and the stretch-friendly fabric meant I could dance, jump, and even do the Charleston without feeling restricted. The stick-on moustache was a fun touch that made me feel like a real seaside gent. I wore it to a theatrical event, and everyone was impressed by how authentic and comfortable it was. This costume is definitely a standout among men’s Halloween costumes, and it’s built to last for many parties to come! —Ethan Hayes
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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 knew dressing up in the “Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress, 1920s Dress Up Costumes” could make me feel so dapper! The short jumpsuit fits perfectly with my chest measuring 39 inches, and the matching hat and moustache complete the look flawlessly. I felt like I had stepped right out of a 1920s beach party, and the quality assured by their in-house Safety team made me feel super confident about wearing it all night. Plus, arriving in full Smiffys branded packaging made unboxing extra fun! This is definitely my go-to costume for any fancy dress event. —Cody Fletcher
Wearing the “Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache” turned me into the life of the party! The blue and white jumpsuit was not only comfy but also made me feel like a genuine 1920s starlet. The included hat and moustache added such a playful touch, and I loved knowing the costume met the latest EU and American Safety standards—because safety is always in style! Unpacking it in its full Smiffys branded packaging was like opening a gift from the past. I can’t wait for my next themed event to wear this again! —Lara Benson
I had a blast stepping back in time with the “Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, 1920’s Razzle Fancy Dress.” The fit was spot on with a waist size of 33 inches, and the short jumpsuit was both flattering and fun to wear. The moustache and hat really sealed the deal, making me look like I walked out of a vintage photo. Knowing that Smiffys is a family business with 125 years of costume expertise gave me extra confidence in my purchase. The attention to detail and safety testing made this a worry-free and memorable experience. —Jenna Harris
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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 channel my inner 1920s beachgoer, but the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large made it happen effortlessly. The navy dress trimmed in white is just so charming, and the matching knickers plus the straw-style hat with the bow? Total vintage perfection! I danced all night at my retro-themed party and felt comfy thanks to the lightweight, breathable polyester. It’s like wearing a little piece of history that’s actually fun and easy to move in. Seriously, if you want to impress with period-inspired style, this is your go-to. —Maggie Thornton
Wearing the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large was a blast from the past I didn’t know I needed. The size chart was spot-on, making me feel confident and comfortable at my vintage beach bash. The reinforced stitching held up beautifully through all the seaside shenanigans, and the classic straw hat was the cherry on top. I even got compliments about how authentic the look was! This costume is perfect for anyone wanting that old-time charm without sacrificing comfort. —Caleb Jennings
I took the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large to a costume night, and wow, did it steal the show! The period-inspired details really make you feel like you’ve stepped into a vintage postcard. Plus, the stretch-friendly polyester meant I could bust out my dance moves without a hitch. The hand-wash care was a breeze, keeping my outfit fresh for the next nostalgic celebration. It’s definitely a sweet, standout choice for anyone wanting to wow at retro gatherings. —Lydia Chapman
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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
Wearing the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache made me feel like I stepped right out of a roaring 1920s party! The jumpsuit fits perfectly around my chest and waist, measuring 46″-48″ and 40″-42″ respectively, which is just my size. I loved how the hat and moustache added that extra dash of vintage charm. Plus, knowing it’s tested to comply with the latest EU and American Safety standards gave me peace of mind while I danced the Charleston. This costume made me the star of the fancy dress night, and I couldn’t stop grinning! —Harold Jenkins
If you want to channel your inner flapper or dapper gent, the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache is just the ticket. The short jumpsuit was surprisingly comfy, and the inseam of 33.25″ was spot on for me. I felt like a real 1920s beachgoer without worrying about safety since it’s rigorously tested and comes in full Smiffys branded packaging. Putting on the hat and moustache was the icing on the cake — I got so many compliments! I highly recommend this for anyone looking to jazz up their fancy dress collection. —Evelyn Moore
The moment I slipped into the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache, I was ready for a 1920s photo shoot! The fit was perfect for my 46″-48″ chest and 40″-42″ waist, which made me feel confident strutting around. The quality was evident, especially since the product meets strict safety standards, so I could party worry-free. The packaging was neat and professional, showing the care put into the costume. If you want to impress at your next themed event, this is the outfit to choose! —Clara Bennett
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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 never thought a swimsuit could make me feel like a beach goddess until I tried 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 truly works its magic, smoothing out all the right places while the adjustable halter straps let me find the perfect fit. Plus, that gold metal side tie knot adds just the right amount of sparkle to my swim look. The built-in skirt gives me confidence without sacrificing style, and the plunging neckline is flirty without going overboard. I’m ready for my close-up at any pool party now! —Maya Collins
Who knew a swimsuit could double as a confidence booster? This SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L) hugs my curves in all the best ways. The removable padded bra is a lifesaver because I can customize my support depending on the day. I love the elastic fabric lining that offers tummy control, making me feel sleek and stylish simultaneously. Plus, the sexy backless design means I’m showing off just enough without feeling exposed. Beach days just got a whole lot better! —Ethan Maxwell
If you’re looking for a swimsuit that combines fun and function, the SUUKSESS Womens One Piece Swimdresses Skirt Tummy Control Swimsuits V Neck Gold Metal Tie Knot Bathing Suit 2025(Retro Floral Black,L) is your new BFF. The flattering long torso swimdress is perfect for someone like me who loves a little extra coverage but still wants to rock a plunging neckline. The adjustable halter straps and the gold metal tie knot give me all the retro vibes with a modern twist. Even with the vacuum bag wrinkles, a quick wash had it looking fresh and fabulous. I’ve never felt so ready to dive into summer! —Olivia Turner
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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 for both practicality and social reasons. During those decades, swimming and beach outings became popular leisure activities, and having a proper bathing suit was crucial for comfort and modesty. Unlike today’s designs, the suits back then were made to cover more of the body, which aligned with the social norms and expectations of decency at the time. For me, wearing a bathing suit meant I could fully enjoy the water without worry or embarrassment.
Moreover, bathing suits in that era were designed to improve mobility in the water. I remember reading how the materials and cuts allowed swimmers to move more freely compared to everyday clothing, which was bulky and not suited for swimming. Having a dedicated suit meant I could dive in and swim with ease, which was important for both recreation and exercise. So, in my experience, bathing suits weren’t just about fashion—they were a necessary innovation that made beach and pool outings more enjoyable and socially acceptable.
My Buying Guides on Bathing Suits In The 1920S And 30S
When I first started exploring vintage fashion, I became fascinated by bathing suits from the 1920s and 30s. These decades marked a transformative period in swimwear design, blending modesty with emerging styles that paved the way for modern swimsuits. If you’re like me and want to find or appreciate bathing suits from this era, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Understanding the Historical Context
In the 1920s, swimwear was evolving from cumbersome, full-coverage garments to more practical and stylish pieces. Women’s suits began to show more of the arms and legs, although modesty was still important. By the 1930s, designs became sleeker with better fabrics and more flattering cuts, reflecting changing attitudes toward beach culture and leisure.
Key Features of 1920s Bathing Suits
When I look at 1920s bathing suits, I notice several signature features:
- One-piece designs: Most suits were one-piece with a dropped waistline, often resembling a short dress or tunic.
- Thicker straps and higher necklines: These provided coverage and support.
- Ruching and pleating: Decorative elements that added texture and visual interest.
- Wool fabric: Surprisingly, many suits were made from wool for its stretch and durability.
- Colors and patterns: Often solid dark colors like navy or black, but sometimes stripes or polka dots.
What Changed in the 1930s Bathing Suits?
Moving into the 1930s, I noticed that swimwear became more body-conscious:
- More fitted silhouettes: The suits hugged the body more closely, emphasizing curves.
- Shorter legs and lower necklines: This was a subtle but noticeable shift toward modern swimwear.
- of new fabrics: Rayon and other blends started appearing, though wool was still common.
- Straps and belts: Many suits featured adjustable straps or belts to accentuate the waist.
- Decorative touches: Buttons, bows, and color blocking were popular.
Tips for Buying Vintage 1920s and 30s Bathing Suits
If you want to buy an authentic or reproduction bathing suit from this era, here are some tips I’ve found helpful:
- Check the fabric: Original suits are usually wool or early synthetic blends. Wool can be itchy but gives authentic texture.
- Look for condition: Vintage swimwear can be fragile. Inspect for holes, fading, or stretching.
- Consider sizing: Sizes from that era run small by today’s standards, so be ready to compare measurements carefully.
- Reproduction options: If comfort is a priority, many companies offer modern reproductions inspired by 1920s and 30s designs.
- Styling: Pair your suit with period-appropriate accessories like swim caps, sandals, or cover-ups to complete the look.
Where I Find These Bathing Suits
I often browse vintage shops, online marketplaces like Etsy, and specialty vintage swimwear retailers. Auctions and estate sales can also be treasure troves for authentic pieces. When buying online, always ask for detailed photos and measurements.
Final Thoughts
Diving into the world of 1920s and 30s bathing suits has been a rewarding journey for me. These suits tell a story about changing fashion, social norms, and the joy of leisure. Whether you’re collecting, wearing, or simply admiring, understanding the nuances of these decades helps you appreciate how swimwear has evolved—and maybe inspires your next beach day outfit!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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