Swimsuit, The: Fashion From Poolside To Catwalk

Description: The Swimsuit: Fashion from Poolside to Catwalk documents the modern swimsuit's trajectory from men's underwear and circus/performance wear to its unique niche in world fashion. It emphasizes the relationship between fashion, media, celebrity, sport and the cultivation of the modern body. This fascinating book provides an historical, sociological and cultural context in which to view how the swimsuit - and Australia, the country that significantly influenced its modern form - migrated from the cultural and colonial periphery to the centre of international attention. In addition, the book offers new perspectives on national histories of the swimsuit and investigates how traditional European fashion centers have opened up to new markets and modes of living, bringing together influences from around the globe. The Swimsuit is essential reading for students, scholars, and the general reader interested in fashion, popular culture, history, media, sport, and gender studies.

Contents: Acknowledgements A Template for New World Fashion Testing the Waters: Morality and Undressing the Body Show and Tell: Popularizing the Swimsuit Body Business: Beauty Made to Measure Going for Gold: Sport and Fashion Shaping Up: The History and Development of Swimsuit's Integration into the Fashion Industry Branded Nation: A Place in the Sun References

Author Biography: Christine Schmidt is a fashion researcher and independent fashion and concept consultant.

Promotional Information: This exciting book explores the history and significance of the swimsuit, revealing how fashion, sport, entertainment, publicity and national identity have been played out in this unique and at times scandalous garment.