From the modest 1940s to the sun-conscious 1990s, each decade made its mark on today’s swimwear. In recognition of the anniversary of the birth of the bikini,Mervyns’ 2006 swimwear collection reflects the transformation of the two-piece.
“Each decade embodies its own mood and sense of style in which today’s women can easily identify with,” said Robin Green, Mervyns’ divisional merchandise manager, juniors apparel/seasonal. “From a surf-inspired bikini reminiscent of the ‘60s to a bright geometric print tankini reflective of the ‘80s, Mervyns offers women a plethora of style, print and texture options representative of a decade that reflects her own personal style.”
1940s
The 1946 introduction of the bikini was received with a lack of enthusiasm due to the modesty of
the era. The innovative, naval-bearing string creation was overshadowed by the popularity of a two-piece silhouette that covered much more skin. However, versions of the original bikini design reign today. Mervyns offers a variety of bikinis in bright colors and prints for women who want to turn heads at the beach. This season, bikinis that make the biggest splash are adorned with charms, sequins and hardware detailing.
1950s
The corset-style one-piece was the style of choice in the ‘50s. Undergarment designers used their expertise in creating swimwear that concealed women’s imperfections with features including tummy control panels and cups for added support. Women today are still very body-conscious. They want both comfort and style, which leads to today’s extensive silhouette selection. Mervyns offers mix-and-match options including the halterkini, skirtini, tankini and boy shorts, so that women can create an ensemble they feel confident wearing.
1960s
By the mid-‘60s, the bikini was embraced with the popularity of a song about a certain itsy-bitsy
bikini. However, women still opted for styles that were more conservative than the original design. Fullcoverage bottoms and halter tops were the norm and continue in popularity today. Mervyns offers skirted bottoms and boy shorts for extra coverage and banded halter tops for added support. Retro-inspired geographic prints and nostalgic hibiscus florals are especially popular this year.
1970s
The “me decade” produced fashions inspired from Studio 54 disco to CBGB punk, but swimwear
was most influenced by the “peasant look.” Crocheted items were all the rage and they appeared on bags, hats, ponchos, and even neckties. In fact, crocheted string bikinis, one-piece suits and traditional bikinis became a national phenomenon. Today, Mervyns’ Bohemian-style swimsuits pay homage to this look, with crochet and beaded details as well as tie-dye and boho prints.
1980s
Revealing bikinis that resembled the original 1946 design returned with a vengeance in the ‘80s,
thanks in part to Jane Fonda and the workout craze. As women shaped up, they chose tiny bikinis to show off their aerobicized bodies. The popularity of new wave videos, neon colors and bold geometric patterns were quickly incorporated into bathing suits during this decade. Today’s material girl will love Mervyns’ bikini separates in fun bright colors and patterns, especially since they can easily be mixed and matched with other suit styles.
1990s
As a sleeker athletic body type emerged in the ‘90s, so did an awareness of protecting one’s skin
from the sun. Swimwear was less revealing and almost doubled as sportswear to accommodate the renewed interest in outdoor physical activities. Halter tops resembling sports bras and board shorts were ideal for activities from beach volleyball to rollerblading. For today’s active woman, Mervyns offers full coverage tankinis in a variety of colors and prints that coordinate with summer’s wide variety of coverups.
From embroidered tunics and crochet-trimmed sarongs to tiered skirts and lightweight cropped
pants, cover-ups are influenced by current trends and easily transition from beachwear to streetwear.
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