Gingham Bikini (Red)

The Hammies Bikini is based on one of the original bikini styles from the 1960s. It combines elements from a couple of our favorite vintage finds. The body and rick rack are made with 15% stretch to accommodate bodies of all shapes and sizes. The white contrasting trim match the details of our Cabana Set and really complete that mid-century look. Unlike our original Bikini, the Gingham Bikini is available as separates (top and bottom) and it's reversible! The Gingham Bikini can be worn with gingham print or solid color facing out, or mix-and-matched. The cut and fit of the Gingham Bikini are the same as the original Bikini.  The Gingham Bikini is our latest and greatest of many pieces that celebrate the exuberant and underappreciated styles from 1950-60s swim style. This is your grandma's bikini! 🌱 85% polyester, 15% elastic 🤸‍♀️ Sporty fit, leisurely look 💎 Reversible (gingham print on one side, solid color on the other), contrast rick rack ✨ 1960s-inspired cut The Inspiration The History The history of the swimsuit is a fascinating tale of American and European prudishness of dress starting in the early 20th century. Prior to the 1940s, most women swam in full garb, including dresses, stalkings, boots, and a weight belt to keep them from floating. Men's swimwear was much less oppressive in comparison (essentially a wool onesie until barechestedness became acceptable in the 1930s). The bikini took the fashion stage in the 1930s but didn't gain public acceptance until the 1960s. For the next 40 years, the swimsuit, and the bikini specifically, pushed the limits of American fashion and modesty more than any other wardrobe item. If you want to learn more, we recommend Making Waves: Swimsuits and the Undressing of America by Lena Lenček and Gideon Bosker.