Women wore voluminous, ankle-length gowns made of wool or linen. These often included weighted hems (using lead) to prevent the fabric from floating and exposing the legs.

The term "swimsuit" was coined in 1915 by Jantzen. Australian swimmer Annette Kellerman famously challenged norms in 1907 by wearing a form-fitting one-piece, which led to her arrest for indecency.

Developed in 1946 by Louis Réard, the bikini emerged partly due to wartime fabric rationing. Material Development

Suits evolved into knee-length tunics worn over bloomers. Modesty was strictly enforced; women often used bathing machines —covered carriages rolled into the water—to enter the sea privately.

Early costumes were predominantly made of , which became dangerously heavy when wet. Modern swimwear transitioned to: history of the swimsuit, 18th century to modern