Striped Cotton Knit Bathing Suit Set, ca. 1926

This antique 1926 striped cotton knit bathing suit set, consisting of a top and shorts, is a wonderful example of early‑20th‑century bathing fashion during the rise of modern seaside culture. Made of soft striped cotton knit, the suit reflects the sporty, streamlined aesthetic of the 1920s, when swimming and sunbathing became popular leisure activities and public beaches were increasingly accessible.

The top features short sleeves and a rounded neckline, measuring 40 inches at the chest, 28 inches in length, and 11 inches at the sleeve. The shorts have a drawstring waist, adjustable up to 40 inches, and measure 19 inches long. Knit bathing suits like this were designed to fit closely to the body, offering comfort and mobility while still maintaining modesty — a hallmark of 1920s swimwear design.

By the mid‑1920s, bathing suits had evolved from heavy wool garments into lighter, more practical cotton or wool‑knit styles. Stripes were fashionable, and two‑piece suits became increasingly common for both men and women. The growing popularity of swimming clubs, seaside resorts, and health‑oriented leisure contributed to a vibrant bathing culture that celebrated sport, modernity, and outdoor life.

This bathing suit is in good to very good condition, showing general wear, a few small holes, and some spots — typical signs of age for knit fabrics. As an authentic example of early‑20th‑century swimwear history, it offers valuable insight into the social and cultural transformation of bathing practices during the 1920s.