1950s Catalina Floral Textured Cotton Swimsuit
Catalina is one of the oldest manufacturers of clothing in California. Beginning life as a knitting mill in 1907, the company changed its name to Catalina in 1928 and launched the Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants in order to promote their swimwear designs. This 1950s example is a textured cotton blend and has a vibrant floral print in rainbow pastel hues. Tailored to the bullet bra style of the day, it has a built-in white lace nylon bra and slits in the side of the legs to allow ease of movement. The straps are adjustable to three lengths and are attached with a button. The front of the swimsuit is detailed with large pearlescent buttons. The ruched, elastic-lined panels at the back add stretch to the fit.
Catalina was a super brand of its day and Marilyn Monroe was an avid fan, pictured here in 1951. We have also attached our favourite editorial campaign from 1954 to show this slightly more covered style. This swimsuit is one of the best examples we have had for a long time and in excellent and wearable vintage condition with no flaws of any note. Due to its age, it doesn't have a composition label. With some give to the fabric, we believe this is suited to a UK size 8-10 or US 4-6.
MEASUREMENTS UNSTRETCHED:
BUST - 34 in. (86 cm)
WAIST - 26 in. (66 cm)
HIP - 34 in. (86 cm)
LENGTH - 28 in. (71 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal