
National Bikini Day took place in early July, and in celebration it's time to revisit the world's very first bikini—designed by Louis Réard and brought into our lives in 1946. Memories!
The French designer revealed his creation (made with fabric that looks like newspapers) at Paris' Molitor pool, and naturally it was completely scandalous. In fact, Réard had such a rough time getting a model for his gasp-inducing design, that he ended up hiring 19-year-old nude dancer Micheline Bernardini to show it off. In the below photo, you can see that she's holding the bikini's conveniently labeled box.
Also, fun fact: Réard is said to have named the bikini after Bikini Atoll, an atoll in the Marshall Islands where the atomic bomb was tested.
Follow Marie Claire on F (opens in new tab)acebook (opens in new tab) for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Mehera Bonner is a celebrity and entertainment news writer who enjoys Bravo and Antiques Roadshow with equal enthusiasm. She was previously entertainment editor at Marie Claire and has covered pop culture for over a decade.
-
This Is the Only Dry Shampoo That Makes My Hair Feel Clean—Not Crunchy
Bonus: It’s only $8 per bottle.
By Samantha Holender
-
Prince Harry's "Low-Key" Court Appearance May Help to "Minimize the Media Circus," Royal Expert Says
He's trying a new strategy.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
'Succession' Actor Brian Cox Says Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Are "Victims" of the "Moribund" Royal Institution
He has strong feelings about their situation.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
38 Fashion Trends From the '00s That Play on Slow Loop in Your Nightmares
Did someone say low-rise jeans?
By Julia Marzovilla
-
'90s Fashion in Photos: The Most Unforgettable Outfits of the Decade
You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll reach for your acid-wash jeans.
By The Editors
-
85 Celebrities in Gloriously '80s Fashion
Take a trip down memory lane.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
What Poppy Delevingne Wears to Work
Yes, her closet is as chic as her Instagram makes it seem.
By Neha Prakash
-
Anya Taylor-Joy Looked Like a High-Fashion Disney Princess at the 2021 Emmys
She shone in Dior Couture.
By Neha Prakash
-
The Best Red Carpet Looks at the 2021 Emmys
The 2021 Emmys are taking place on September 19. See what the stars wore at the Event Deck in Los Angeles here.
By Rachel Epstein
-
Kathryn Hahn Is Dressed to Perfection in a Pantsuit and Diamonds at the Emmys
She's glowing in Lanvin.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The Most Iconic Britney Spears Outfits of All Time
Here, a look back at Britney Spears' most iconic outfits of all time.
By Alex Rees