The Bikini at 71: Everything You Need to Know About the Swim Style

Yahoo Style Staff

While the United States of America celebrated its 241st birthday on July 4th, the bikini’s reaching a momentous milestone as well the next day. Today, July 5th, which is the anniversary of the invention of the two-piece bathing suit, the bikini celebrates 71 years since Parisian fashion designer Louis Réard invented it.

While the style was totally taboo back then (Réard asked a stripper to model his first iteration because no one else would dare), it’s an essential summer staple now. From the bikini’s conception to GabiFresh’s “fatkini,” learn everything you need to know about the swim style’s history.

Read more from Yahoo Beauty + Style:

7 Celebs Wear Their American Pride

Surfers Know Bikinis Best — Here’s Proof

Style-Off Swimwear Challenge: Instagram Influencers Flaunt Their Suits

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. For Twitter updates, follow @YahooStyle and @YahooBeauty.