The bikini is 60!
At first, there were no takers. Few women dared wear one. The Church reacted strongly, calling the bikini immoral.
The governments of Spain, Portugal and Italy refused to allow them on their beaches. It was only because of slow acceptance in America -- a process that took around 15 years -- that the bikini survived its shy, early years.
When legendary French actress Brigitte Bardot wore one in the 1957 film And God Created Woman, inhibitions were lowered, and a new market emerged.
Three years later, songs followed. Remember Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini?
Image: Brigitte Bardot in the film The Bikini Girl
Also See: The Indian Angelina Jolie