LONDON — From an Olympic gold medal to Pamela Anderson’s Baywatch red bathing suit, a new exhibition dedicated to all things swimming has opened at London’s Design Museum. Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style features more than 200 items that look at our love of water since the 1920s, be it at the lido, the pool, or in nature.
“The show explores the last century of swimming through the lens of design,” Amber Butchart, guest curator of the exhibition, told Reuters at a press preview last Wednesday. “We begin in the pool, we move into lido, and then we end in nature and each of those sections allows us to explore different themes, whether it’s materials and making, whether it is the evolution of swimwear as a fashion object, or whether it is swimming in outdoor spaces and the architecture that allows access for that.”
A variety of colorful swimwear from various decades takes center stage, including a 1950s bikini and a selection of 1980s Speedo briefs alongside an edition of the famed red suit Anderson wore to play lifeguard CJ Parker in Baywatch in the 1990s. Items date from a 1920s example of rental swimwear to more contemporary and adaptive designs.
Also on show are various items belonging to Olympians — including the first Olympic solo swimming gold medal won by a British woman as well as diver Tom Daley’s Team GB trunks. Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style runs until Aug. 17.
With this exhibition, visitors can immerse themselves in the evolution of swimming culture over the past century, exploring how swimwear has transformed into a significant fashion statement while also serving practical purposes. The inclusion of items from Olympic athletes highlights the intersection of sports and style, showcasing how swimming has not only been a recreational activity but also a competitive sport that has inspired generations.
As Butchart noted, the exhibition is not just about swimwear; it also delves into the architectural aspects of swimming spaces. From the grandeur of public pools to the simplicity of natural swimming spots, the exhibition captures how these environments have evolved and the role they play in our relationship with water.
Visitors can expect to see a range of materials and designs, reflecting the changing tastes and technologies of each era. The exhibition includes everything from traditional swimsuits to cutting-edge adaptive designs that cater to a more diverse range of swimmers.
In addition to the iconic Baywatch swimsuit, the exhibition features swimwear that has made headlines over the years, illustrating how fashion and functionality intersect in this unique realm. Each piece tells a story, whether it’s about a moment in pop culture or a significant achievement in sports.
“Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style” is more than just a display of swimwear; it’s a celebration of a pastime that has brought joy to millions around the world. The exhibition invites attendees to reflect on their own experiences with swimming, whether it be a childhood memory at the local pool or a serene moment in nature.
This exhibition is particularly timely as it coincides with a renewed interest in outdoor activities and wellness, encouraging people to reconnect with nature. In a world increasingly focused on digital experiences, the simplicity of swimming in a pool or a lake serves as a reminder of the joys of physical activity and the beauty of the natural world.
For those planning to visit, the exhibition is open until August 17, 2025, providing ample opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of swimming. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a sports fan, or simply someone who enjoys the water, there’s something in this exhibition for everyone.
As the summer approaches and temperatures rise, the exhibition serves as a perfect reminder to dive into the joys of swimming, whether it’s by hitting the pool, indulging in a beach day, or simply appreciating the art and history behind swimwear.
In conclusion, the Design Museum's latest exhibition not only showcases the evolution of swimwear but also encapsulates the cultural significance of swimming as a beloved activity across generations.
