July 5th, 2024
| Web site: | http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/bikini-introduced |
On July 5, 1946, French designer Louis Reard unveiled a daring two-piece swimsuit at the Piscine Molitor, a popular swimming pool in Paris. Parisian showgirl Micheline Bernardini modeled the new fashion, which Reard dubbed "bikini," inspired by a news-making U.S. atomic test that took place off the Bikini Atoll in the Pacific Ocean earlier that week. Today bikinis are a popular fashion choice and can be seen being worn poolside and oceanside.
Bikini and bathing suit season reaches its peak in mid-summer when shoppers may still be looking for new swimsuits to add to their collections, particularly if vacations are in the plans. Department stores and other clothing retailers can offer sales on swimsuits and highlight the popular bikini on this special day.
