In June of 1955, Jantzen joined with several advertising partners for this 5 page spread. The Italian Line was a cruise ship line that offered trips to Europe. Two of their ships were fully air-conditioned (we take that as a given nowadays!) and express service meant 6 days to Gibraltar from New York. Have a month of free time? Cruise on over to Europe the first week, spend 2 weeks on the continent, and spend the last week cruising home. Now that's what I call a vacation. Getting there is half the fun!
Take a look at these wonderful Pete Hawley illustrations of Jantzen swimsuits and playwear from 1955. They sure make me want to jump on a ship! Above: taffeta swimsuit with criss-cross lacing at the center front and legs. Came in red, black, and navy. Sold in 1955 for $18.95 (about $156 in today's dollar.) Warshfest was the maker of the Laton-powered sun taffeta fabric.
Striped cotton swimsuit with Jantzen Crinkelastic shirring. Came in red, turquoise, and navy striped with white. Sold in 1955 for $8.95 (about $74 in today's dollar.)
Solid swimsuit with Jantzen Crinkelpuff shirring in all nylon. Came in red, blue, navy, and black. Sold in 1955 for $9.95 (about $82 in today's dollar.) Travis was the maker of the nylon fabric.
Cotton gabardine sleeveless blouse and cuffed shorts. Set sold in 1955 for $9.90 (about $82 in today's dollar.)
Looking for a swimsuit like those shown above? The best place to find vintage swimsuits online is Glamoursurf. The fact that the site is owned by my sister Pam is irrelevant! Pam carries only the finest quality in vintage swimwear and you can be assured that the suits she sells are as wearable today as they were 60 years ago.
