The history of swimwear for women has evolved tremendously; ranging from a full body outfit that retained the utmost of modesty to the newest micro mini bikini which hides absolutely nothing from admiring eyes.
Swimming as a fun activity did not really begin until the mid-1800’s. Previous to that time, “bathing” as it was then called, was merely a therapeutic method used for easing a variety of conditions. The Industrial Revolution brought major positive changes to the economic situation of the world in that it improved the conditions of many people. Suddenly, extra money became available and there was time for recreational activities. The beach beckoned invitingly to a number of Americans who longed to frolic on the warm sands and within the sparkling waves. A different type of clothing was needed for this activity, and clothing manufacturers were quick to respond. Keeping with the times, modesty was key for women on the beach; little on the body was exposed. Yet these outfits were still considered as risqué due to their form fitting nature.
Today, those prudish attitudes would be horrified when viewing the swimwear that has grown, or rather shrunk, with the changing times. The micro mini bikini is one of the newest styles found on the beach, leaving little to nothing to the imagination. Mere wisps of material attempt to cover prudent areas, yet in such a daring fashion that they may as well not even exist. To make the suits appear even more invisible, clear plastic straps hold the pieces together, offering from a distance a most shocking visual.
The desire to be more daring and more outrageous has actually reached a pinnacle in the swimsuit industry with the addition of these micro mini bikini suits. The miniscule suits are already so minimal that the next step would be complete nudity; leaving no market for swimsuit manufacturers whatsoever. Indeed, the skimpiest of the suits are being called the “nude bikini”, referring to the impression that they impose on the curious on-lookers.
One might expect that, with the minimal material involved in the suit that the cost might be equally as small. This, unfortunately, is not the case. Prices will range between $40 to over $200 for the two barely there pieces. Several websites offer these suits for the adventuress who will dare to bare.
It is truly remarkable to see how the evolution of the swimsuit has gone from the extreme cover up to the extreme micro mini bikini that covers next to nothing.