Why is it called bikini?

The bikini is not just a swimsuit—it’s a fashion icon that has evolved alongside society. From its first appearance in the 20th century to becoming an essential item in any vacation suitcase, the bikini has continuously reinvented itself season after season.

But this is something we already explored in a previous article, where we talked about the origin and history of the bikini.

Today, in this article, we uncover the curious origin of its name, its impact on fashion, and how at Roidal we continue to create women’s bikini designs that blend elegance and sophistication.

To understand the name of this iconic garment, we have to go back to 1946, when French designer Louis Réard introduced the world to a swimsuit that, at the time, was revolutionary: a two-piece set that revealed the navel. This design was in sharp contrast to the more modest swimsuits of the era and caused quite a stir in society.

But why did Réard decide to call it a “bikini”? The answer lies in an unexpected place: Bikini Atoll, a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean where nuclear tests were being conducted that very same year. Réard believed his new swimsuit would cause an impact just as explosive in fashion as the nuclear tests in Bikini. And he wasn’t wrong.

Since then, the term “bikini” has become popular worldwide, becoming synonymous with summer, sun, and sophistication.

When the bikini was first introduced, society wasn’t entirely ready to embrace such a bold garment. In its early days, it was even banned in some countries and rejected in beauty pageants. However, during the 1950s and 60s, with iconic figures like Brigitte Bardot and Marilyn Monroe, the bikini began to gain popularity, becoming associated with a glamorous and free-spirited lifestyle.

As the decades progressed, the bikini continued to transform. The 70s brought more minimalist styles, the 80s embraced vibrant colours and daring cuts, while the 90s and 2000s solidified its status as the top choice in swimwear. Today, the bikini adapts to every style and silhouette, offering a wide variety of designs that flatter all body types.

As we mentioned, its name comes from Bikini Atoll, a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, and Louis Réard chose the name because he knew the impact this new garment would have on society. And he wasn’t wrong.

Year after year, the bikini reaffirms itself as the ultimate summer garment. And if the history of the bikini has proven anything, it’s that this is a timeless piece, capable of reinventing itself without ever losing its essence.

At Roidal, we’ve spent years perfecting swimwear with designs that combine elegance, comfort, and a flawless fit. Our collection features bikinis that not only follow the trends but are also crafted to flatter the silhouette and enhance every body type. Whether it’s through classic cuts, sophisticated details or exclusive prints, at Roidal you’ll find the perfect bikini for every occasion.