The History of the Bikini

The Bikini

The bikini is a bathing costume that is narrow and in two parts, of a maximum area of 7 square inches (45 square centimeters), and not specifically intended for bathing. It can be sold in a matchbox, or folded easily into a handbag compact. It represents clothing for a woman such that she does not feel completely naked, yet leaves her sufficiently undressed to be irresistibly attractive to men.

The Bikini: A Cultural History
Patrik Alac, Parkstone Press Ltd, 2002

On 5th July 1946, in a public swimming pool in Paris, Louis Reard introduced a tiny two piece swimsuit to a 'most beautiful bather' contest. It was at this moment that the bikini was born!