Bikini Day

Bikini Day coincides with the invention of the bikini in 1946. The revealing bathing suit worn by women around the world is named after the Bikini Atoll in the United States, where atomic tests were carried out. The French costume designer originally wanted to call the separating pieces of fabric an ‘atom’, but the word ‘bikini’ caught on much better.

History

As early as World War II, sunbathers began to ditch closed, chaste bathing suits in favor of lighter and simpler, usually two-piece beachwear. However, American women did not appear on the beach in bikinis immediately after the 1946 innovation; until the 1960s, bikinis were banned in the United States. Europe was enthusiastic about the new fashion and did not introduce such bans.

Soon in the 1960s, movie stars such as Ava Gardner and Brigitte Bardot began to appear in newly designed swimsuits. Actresses wore bikinis in films, as well as for ordinary trips to the beach.

Interesting Facts

• In 1957, Brigitte Bardot appeared in a bikini on many French beaches, where she was photographed extensively;
• Brian Hyland’s 1960 song “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” actually called for buying a bikini;
• Bikini thongs appeared in Brazil in the 1970s;
• In 1993, the Olympic Committee declared the bikini the official uniform for female beach volleyball players.

How to Take Part

Fashion, including swimwear, helps people express themselves. Today there are a huge number of color variations and bikini styles, one of which may well be suitable for the next trip to the beach or pool.

When is Bikini Day in 2024?

Bikini Day is observed on July 5 each year.

Observations