Definition of bathing costume

The term "bathing costume" originated during the Victorian era when swimming became increasingly popular, but modesty and propriety still held great importance. In the 1860s, women began donning long, voluminous garments made of wool or flannel to swim in, which were somewhat effective at concealing their bodies. However, as swimming actives became more refined and ocean bathing gained popularity, these thick, restrictive clothes became impractical and uncomfortable for swimming purposes. In response, inventive women began designing and wearing shorter, lighter bathing suits made of silk, muslin, or cotton. These garments, which still retained some level of modesty, eventually gained popularity among the vacationing elite, who would travel to seaside resorts to enjoy swimming and other water activities. The exact origins of the name "bathing costume" are disputed, but it is believed to have derrived from the French term "costume à baigner," which means "swimming costume." The phrase first appeared in English dictionaries in the late 19th century, and the term persisted until the rise of more streamlined and revealing swimwear in the early 20th century. Today, the term "bathing suit" or "swimwear" is more commonly used to describe the clothing worn for swimming and other water activities.