TODAY (JULY 5TH) IS NATIONAL BIKINI DAY AND TO CELEBRATE WE’VE JOINED FORCES WITH UK SWIMWEAR TO TAKE A LOOK AT THE EVOLUTION OF THIS FASHION STAPLE.

Bikini Day started in 1946. Parisian fashion designer Louis Reard began it. This was when most swimwear still consisted of swimsuits, and to popularise the new and daring trend of a two-piece design, he created a celebration around a visit to the beach.

So how will His & Hers be celebrating this little piece of fashion history? We could update our wardrobe with a few new bikinis (any excuse for a spot of shopping!) or go to the gym and swim a few lengths in the pool, or perhaps soak up a little vitamin D in the garden or on the beach while the sun’s still shining.

National Bikini Day through the decades:

The earliest years saw a lot of people deciding to take short trips abroad or to seaside resorts. In 1946, this was rare, but with the war over, Americans stationed in Paris and many other new developments, the world felt smaller, people were getting wealthier, and there were great opportunities.

National Bikini Day should be known as International Bikini Day though, as this day has spread all over the world. If you want to take part, it is an excellent chance for you to update your swimwear wardrobe and go out in the sun sporting your new design. Of course, it is a unique opportunity to get some items from the latest seasonal collections that are coming out.

Now is the time of year that bikini wearers add items to their wardrobe the most, in anticipation of the height of summer. So many designers, retailers, bloggers and fashion lovers will be keeping their eyes peeled for new and exciting designs, or perhaps even sales.

We’re very proud to bring you this feature in association with UK Swimwear. To celebrate National Bikini Day, they’re offering 20% off all bikinis on their site if you use the code: bikini20 (offer ends on Sunday 8th July).

Related feature: Seaspray – the perfect swimwear for tall women.