Vintage Swimwear, Swimsuits, Bathing Suits, Trunks, Malliots and more!

Jantzen has long been a recognized brand in Swimsuit history. The Jantzen Diving girl leapt from the cover of a 1920 catalogue to make a sensational splash on ground breaking billboard advertisements and as a sometimes-banned decal on millions of car windshields. The Jantzen Diving Girl has gone through an evolution in her style to keep up with the times. She has been used in advertising and on company promotional materials since the 1920's. Jantzen patented her image in 1924. By the 1940's she was one of the most recognizable symbols in the world. She was embroidered or sewn on Jantzen swimsuits for over 60 years.

Everyone can look good in a bathing suit, you just have to know what you want to emphasize and what you don't.

Here are some quick tips to help identify the type of swimwear that can empahsize or de-emphasize your body shape.

Do you have Short Legs?

If you want to lengthen the look of short legs, look for a one two piece swimsuit that lengthens them. Find a swimsuit that is cut high on the leg openings to help lengthen the look of your leg. Many 1980's swimsuits are cut high on the hips.

Do you have Wide Hips?

Look for boy shorts to camouflage the problem or try a one piece that sits high on the thighs. This will lengthen the legs and draw the eye away from the hip area.

Do you have a Small Bust?

Look for a top that lifts the bust. These usually come with straps that tie around the neck or go for that classic halter style. Deep V cut open front suits will also help pull the eye to the waistline.
Tops that offer a little padding will help in this area as well.

Do you have a Long Torso?

Tankinis are perfect for you. Unlike a bikini, the longer top disguises the fact that you are long and lean. If Tankinis aren't too your liking, look for a swimsuit that sits high on the leg. This will emphasise their length instead of your torso. Some vintage 50's swimsuits by Rose Marie Reid were made for the taller longer torso gal. Look for ones labeled 'Magic Lengths'.

Do you have a Thick Waistline?

Tankinis work for you too. Or check out one pieces that are all one dark color. Patterns running on an angle can give the illusion of a narrow waist as well. Sarong style suits will also help accentuate the waistline. They will cinch you in quite nicely.

Do you have a Short Torso?

One piece swimsuits with a high cut neckline will stretch you out and make you look just like a model! Or look for a two piece that will sit low on your hips.

Do you have a Tummy?

Look for suits that offer a mask coverup that covers the problem area. You might also look for suits that built-in tummy support inthe lining or in the fiber itself. Many vintage 50's style swim suits have a modesty panel, a straight cut panel that extends accross the front of the tummy, and offers girdle like support.