Outdoors Bathing suits through the decades: a timeline By Cottage Life Published: August 2, 2023 Updated: July 31, 2024 share Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Copy Link Cancel Image courtesy GraphicAArtisGetty Images North America’s bathing “costumes” of the early days weighed 20 lbs when wet, and, let’s face it: they weren’t terribly flattering. Flash forward to the present; today’s swimsuits have come a long (long) way. From the dawn of the Speedo to the shocking emergence of the first two-piece suit, let’s recap some of the important moments in the evolution of the bathing suit. Related Story Ontario Parks’s lending out PFDs to encourage water safety Related Story Swimming advisories posted at beaches across Ontario following heavy rain Related Story Open-water swimming gear essentials Sign up for our newsletters By submitting your information via this form, you agree to receive electronic communications from Cottage Life Media, a division of Blue Ant Media Solutions Inc., containing news, updates and promotions regarding cottage living and Cottage Life's products. You may withdraw your consent at any time. Dockside Weekly The latest cottage-country news, trending stories, and how-to advice Dockside DIY Bi-weekly Fix-it info, project ideas, and maintenance tips from our DIY experts The Great Outdoors Monthly Nature and environment news and inspiration for people who love to get outside The Key Weekly Need-to-know info about buying, selling, and renting cottage real estate Family Matters Five-part series Untangle the thorny process of cottage succession with expert advice from lawyer, Peter Lillico