The Shopping List No. 52: Dive into Swim

Hello collective! I’m coming to you with a hot report for summer, while we’re just cruising by spring. If you’re anything like me, then you’ve been gearing up for summer…since last summer. If you’re totally sane, then there’s no better time to dive into the world of vintage swimwear. I love vintage swimwear because it serves as a versatile addition to your wardrobe. From bandeau bikini tops to fab one-pieces, vintage swimwear can be effortlessly styled as bodysuits or paired with your favorite bottoms for an easy beach-to-street look. If you love modest yet modern, look into swimwear from the 60s – 70s. If you want to feel like a 90s supermodel, try out bikinis from the 80s and 90s which have a super high cut! I love swimwear, but I feel like the modern ones just aren’t cutting it for me so I’m hoping to find vintage gems. If you feel the same, keep reading!

Tips and considerations for buying vintage swimwear:

Always check the measurements of the swimsuit! Swimsuit sizing is even more wacky than clothing!
Check the foundations of the swimsuit to see if anything is loose, broken or ripped. A lot of vintage swimwear have zippers, bonings, and other structural elements. They need to be well put together to achieve their desired effect, so check for damages!
Check the rubber or elastic to see if it’s still holding up or if it needs to be replaced. If the swimsuit is made of poly or nylon material, ensure it hasn’t deteriorated and sheer.
Check the straps to ensure they are in good condition.
If you’re concerned about germs, either wash in hot water or you can use a disinfecting detergent. I find a simple hot water gentle washer cycle to be effective, but I have friends who want the added disinfectant!

As you know, I’m a bit of a brand snob – Pucci, Bill Blass, YSL! However, since researching for this shopping list, I am now laser focused on finding 80s Blue Lagoon swimwear (both of the images are vintage ads from the brand!)

My curated finds: