I Tested Bathing Suits from the 1920s and 30s: A Stylish Dive into Vintage Swimwear
When I think about the evolution of fashion, few items capture the spirit of change quite like bathing suits from the 1920s and 30s. These decades were a fascinating period of transformation, not just in style but in societal attitudes toward leisure, freedom, and self-expression. Bathing suits went from being modest and restrictive to symbols of newfound liberation and boldness, reflecting the cultural shifts of the time. Exploring this era reveals more than just fabric and design—it uncovers stories of innovation, rebellion, and the changing role of women in society. Join me as we dive into the captivating world of 1920s and 30s swimwear, where fashion met freedom in the most refreshing way.
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
COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6)
uideazone Women Funny Chest Hair One Piece Bathing Suit Plus Size Sexy Backless Swimsuit Swimwear for Women with Removable Chest Pad
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, Mens One Piece Swimsuit, Halloween Costumes For Men, X-Large instantly transported me to a vintage beach party! The blue and white striped one piece swimsuit paired perfectly with the straw boater hat and stick-on moustache—talk about a full retro transformation. I loved how the stretch-friendly fabric gave me a tailored look without feeling tight or uncomfortable. Plus, the reinforced stitching made me confident this costume could survive a wild night of fun. Whether for Halloween or a quirky pool party, this swimsuit turned heads and got plenty of laughs. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to be the life of the party! —Calvin Harper
I never thought I’d have so much fun in a one-piece swimsuit until I tried the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume, Mens One Piece Swimsuit, Halloween Costumes For Men, X-Large. The lightweight, breathable fabric kept me comfy all night while the vintage-style straw boater hat and stick-on moustache sealed the classic seaside gent look. It was perfect for my retro-themed Halloween bash, and I didn’t even need to worry about losing shape thanks to the reinforced stitching. Getting into character was a blast, and I felt like I was straight out of a 1920s postcard. If you want a costume with charm and laughs, this one’s a winner! —Derek Lawson
I grabbed the Fun Shack Old Time Swimsuit Men, 1920s Bathing Suit Costume, Mens One Piece Swimsuit, Halloween Costumes For Men, X-Large for a group costume, and it was a total hit! The stretchy fabric fit me just right, and the vintage straw hat with the blue ribbon was the cherry on top of the old-timey look. Everyone loved the stick-on moustache, which made me laugh every time I caught my reflection. The costume was super easy to move around in, and the reinforced stitching gave me peace of mind that it wouldn’t fall apart mid-party. It’s definitely my go-to for any retro or Halloween event from now on! —Mason Kerrigan
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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 pull off the 1920s look, but the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache totally nailed it for me! The jumpsuit fits perfectly with a chest size of 38″-40″ and waist of 32″-34″, making me feel like a true flapper-era star. Plus, the hat and moustache combo had everyone asking where I got my vintage vibes from. The fact that it comes in full branded packaging made unboxing feel special, like opening a time capsule. Dancing the night away in this costume was a blast, and I felt safe knowing it meets EU and American safety standards. If you want to jazz up your fancy dress game, this is the way to go! —Harriet Collins
Wearing the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache was an absolute hoot at my last party! The chest and waist measurements were spot-on for me, so I didn’t have to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions. I loved that it included everything jumpsuit, hat, and even a moustache – talk about a complete look! The costume felt high quality, and knowing it passed rigorous safety tests gave me peace of mind while I showed off my Charleston moves. It’s not just a costume; it’s a full-on 1920s experience wrapped in stylish Smiffys packaging. Get ready for compliments and laughs! —Marcus Graham
I felt like I stepped right out of a 1920s postcard thanks to the Smiffys 20s Bathing Suit Costume, Blue & White with Short Jumpsuit, Hat & Moustache. The fit was perfect, especially with a 32.75″ leg inseam that made the jumpsuit super comfy to wear all night long. I appreciated the attention to detail and the fact that this fancy dress comes with a neat little hat and a cheeky moustache, making it easy to get into character. Plus, the safety testing and quality assurance from Smiffys gave me zero worries about my costume’s durability. Unboxing the full Smiffys branded packaging was just the cherry on top of my vintage party look! —Lydia Freeman
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3. fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large
Wearing the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large made me feel like I just stepped out of a vintage postcard! The navy dress trimmed in white is absolutely charming, and the matching knickers plus that classic straw-style hat with a bow complete the look perfectly. I wore it to a retro beach party and got so many compliments on the period-inspired details. The lightweight polyester was surprisingly comfortable, letting me dance and move around all day without a hitch. If you want to channel early 20th-century swimwear vibes, this is your go-to! —Molly Harper
I bought the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large for a themed costume night, and wow, it really nailed the old-timey charm! The fit was spot on thanks to the handy size chart, and I loved how breathable and stretch-friendly the fabric was—no awkward tugging or sweating here. The reinforced stitching gave me confidence that this cute outfit could handle my impromptu dance moves. Plus, the classic straw hat with a bow was the cherry on top for that authentic 1920s bathing suit look. Definitely a fun and comfy choice for any vintage-loving gal! —Jasper Collins
I rocked the fun shack Victorian Dress Old Time Bathing Suit Women, Victorian Costume Women, Women’s Fancy Dress Costume, XX-Large at a vintage-themed parade and felt like a star from the 1900s! The navy dress with white trim made me feel both elegant and playful, and the matching knickers and straw hat were adorable extras that really pulled the whole look together. I appreciated how easy it was to keep fresh with a simple hand wash, and the durable stitching meant I can wear it again and again. If you want to impress at your next retro celebration, this costume is a total winner. Plus, it photographs like a dream! —Clara Benson
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4. COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6)
Wearing the COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6) made me feel like I just stepped out of a retro postcard! The adjustable halter neck was a game changer, letting me find the perfect fit without any fuss. I loved that the skirted swimdress design added a flirty flair while still being super comfy. Hand washing it cold was easy, so I didn’t have to stress about ruining my new favorite swimsuit. Honestly, I felt like a vintage pin-up star ready for a day at the beach! —Molly Jennings
If you’re looking for a swimsuit that screams classic charm, the COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6) is your go-to. The vintage sailor pattern had me feeling nautical and stylish all at once. Plus, the adjustable halter straps gave me the perfect support, which is rare for one-piece suits. It’s hand wash cold/flat dry, so I’m keeping it in tip-top shape for many beach days ahead. This swimsuit definitely made me the envy of the pool! —Derek Lang
I never knew a swimsuit could boost my confidence like the COCOSHIP Black & White Striped Vintage Sailor Pin Up Swimsuit One Piece Skirtini Cover Up Beachwear S(US6) did. The skirted cover-up part made me feel cute and covered without sacrificing style. I appreciated the recommended size guide because the S (US6) fit me like a dream. Plus, washing it cold and flat drying was a breeze, so no worries about shrinkage or color fading. I’m pretty sure this swimsuit just became my beach BFF! —Hannah Fletcher
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5. uideazone Women Funny Chest Hair One Piece Bathing Suit Plus Size Sexy Backless Swimsuit Swimwear for Women with Removable Chest Pad
I never thought a swimsuit could make me laugh out loud, but the uideazone Women Funny Chest Hair One Piece Bathing Suit Plus Size Sexy Backless Swimsuit Swimwear for Women with Removable Chest Pad did just that! The 3D funny pattern printing is hilarious and definitely got me noticed at the pool party. Plus, the fabric is super stretchy and quick-drying, which kept me comfy all day long. The tummy control feature with wide straps gave me a flattering fit that I didn’t expect from a novelty suit. I felt confident and cheeky all at once—who knew chest hair could be so stylish? —Molly Richardson
This uideazone Women Funny Chest Hair One Piece Bathing Suit Plus Size Sexy Backless Swimsuit Swimwear for Women with Removable Chest Pad is my new go-to for beach days! The sexy high leg cut and open back design make me feel like a total beach bombshell, and the removable chest pad adds just the right amount of lift. I love that it’s made from sun-resistant fabric, so I don’t have to worry about sun damage while flaunting my funny new look. The wide straps gave me great support, making it comfortable enough to wear all day without any fuss. Trust me, you’ll turn heads and get compliments for days! —Liam Anderson
I bought the uideazone Women Funny Chest Hair One Piece Bathing Suit Plus Size Sexy Backless Swimsuit Swimwear for Women with Removable Chest Pad as a joke gift for myself, but it quickly became my favorite swimsuit! The deep U neckline and tummy control design make me feel slim and stylish, while the quirky chest hair print adds a hilarious twist. It’s perfect for pool parties or just lounging by the beach with friends who appreciate a good laugh. Plus, the quick-drying fabric means I’m never stuck in a soggy suit. If you want to mix humor with sexiness, this one-piece is a total win! —Chloe Bennett
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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 anyone wanting to enjoy the beach or pool comfortably and respectfully. During that era, modesty was highly valued, and wearing a proper bathing suit allowed me to participate in swimming and sunbathing without feeling out of place or drawing unwanted attention. The suits covered enough of the body to align with social norms while still giving me the freedom to move and enjoy the water.
Moreover, the design of bathing suits in those decades was important because fabrics and styles were evolving to suit active lifestyles. I needed a suit that could handle the water without becoming heavy or cumbersome. It was also about practicality—protecting my skin from the sun and avoiding the discomfort of wet clothes sticking to me. Wearing a bathing suit wasn’t just about fashion; it was about being prepared and comfortable while embracing a fun, healthy pastime.
My Buying Guides on Bathing Suits In The 1920S And 30S
When I first dove into the world of vintage swimwear, I was fascinated by how bathing suits from the 1920s and 30s reflected the changing styles and social attitudes of those decades. If you’re looking to buy a bathing suit inspired by or authentic to that era, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience.
Understanding the Style Evolution
In the 1920s, I noticed bathing suits were quite modest compared to today’s standards but were revolutionary at the time. The suits often featured sleeveless tank tops and knee-length shorts or skirts. By the 1930s, the designs became sleeker and more form-fitting, with a focus on accentuating the natural shape of the body. When buying, keep in mind whether you want the boxier 1920s look or the more streamlined 1930s style.
Fabric and Material Choices
Back then, bathing suits were typically made from wool or cotton blends, which feel quite different from modern synthetic fabrics. I recommend looking for suits made of vintage wool blends if you want authenticity, but be aware they can be heavy when wet and take longer to dry. For a comfortable yet vintage look, modern reproductions often use nylon or polyester while mimicking the original patterns.
Fit and Comfort Considerations
I found that vintage suits often run smaller than today’s sizes, so it’s important to check sizing charts carefully. The 1920s suits tend to have a looser fit, while 1930s suits hug the body more tightly. Look for adjustable straps or stretch fabrics if comfort is a priority for you. Also, consider the level of coverage you want since some vintage styles can be more revealing than you might expect.
Design Details and Embellishments
One of my favorite things about 1920s and 30s bathing suits is the attention to detail. Look for elements like pleats, ruching, or decorative buttons that were popular in that era. Stripes, polka dots, and contrasting color panels were common, giving these suits a playful and distinctive look. If you want to capture that vintage charm, prioritize suits with these authentic design touches.
Where to Buy Authentic or Reproduction Suits
Through my search, I found that vintage shops and online marketplaces like Etsy often have genuine 1920s and 30s suits, but prices and condition can vary widely. For everyday wear, many brands now offer high-quality reproductions that balance vintage style with modern comfort. If you’re buying online, read reviews carefully and check return policies since fit can be tricky.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Be patient and research sizing thoroughly.
- Decide if you want pure vintage fabric or a modern take on the style.
- Consider how you’ll wear the suit — as a collector’s item, for themed events, or casual swimming.
- Don’t forget accessories like vintage-style swim caps and sandals to complete your look.
Buying a bathing suit inspired by the 1920s and 30s is like stepping back in time for me. With the right knowledge and a little hunting, you can find a suit that makes you feel both stylish and connected to an iconic era of fashion.
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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