Would you wear a vintage bathing suit?
Fact: ’50s-inspired pinup swimwear is everywhere right now, from $10 bikini sets at H&M to $400+ designer one-pieces.
And seeing as I’m definitely NOT opposed to the Betty Grable bombshell look, I figured I should probably find a flirty halter-polka-dot number to wear this summer.
But wanting a more authentic look (and not wanting to have a “who wore it best” moment at an upcoming 4th of July bash), I opted for my favorite designer vintage store.
As predicted, I found dozens of Marilyn-approved swimsuits, including pointy cupped tops, high-waisted floral swim shorts, and even the short-lived “swim capri pant.”
I narrowed it down to my top two picks, and was about to buy them all when it occurred to me that I may not want to wear someone’s used swimsuit from 50+ years ago.
I left the store empty handed and am still debating whether or not I made a mistake by not purchasing them. But while I’m aware of all the marvelous things washing machines can do, I still feel like I may just prefer purchasing a brand new “vintage-inspired” suit after all.
So here’s my question: Would you wear a vintage swimsuit? Should I just bite the bullet and ignore my inner germaphobe? Or do you agree there’s a certain ick-factor in used, vintage bikinis?
xAli
June 22nd, 2012 at 10:33 am
I would buy it! Maybe not the bottoms, but the top for sure. If it is in a good condition after 50 years thats saying something about the quality and you’re probably getting it for a great price! If I could sew I might buy the bottoms and then add new lining to make it “new”. I feel like the top would totally be oaky though!
June 22nd, 2012 at 10:38 am
Well, the teen consignment store I currently work at does indeed sell used swimsuits. It wouldn’t necessarily be my first choice to buy one, but, as in your case, these are unique vintage statement/conversation pieces that decrease the risk of wearing the same one as somebody else. I would definitely buy a vintage one, however. What are washing machines for anyway? They’re not so different from vintage clothes.
June 22nd, 2012 at 1:58 pm
Yes, I would wash it once and I’d be good to go. I mean, when it’s still in a good state when it’s over 50 years old, I don’t think it has been worn a lot.
xoxo Sootjeelina
June 22nd, 2012 at 3:05 pm
it depends on the store, the condition of the suit. As for looks I love the vintage style look!!
June 22nd, 2012 at 11:56 pm
If you do, wash it in really hot water. Personally, If it were me, I’d love the idea of having a real vinage swimsuit, but I’d ultimately be too creeped out to buy it [germs!].
June 25th, 2012 at 12:20 pm
i bought one a few years ago and loved it! just wash it and your good to go. you definitely wont have anyone else with the same suit.