When Nakedness Became Fashionable

Clearly the purpose underlying swimwear design was exposing human anatomy in a more sensual package. This could not be successfully achieved on the streets of the city. But in the name of recreation and especially sports, an amazing dichotomy of thought began to permeate our society. At the turn of the century, what was naked and lewd in the city was suddenly perfectly justifiable at the beach.

Jeff Pollard, Christian Modesty and the Public Undressing of America, pg.41