4th of July

The neighbors came out in style as it was time to parade around the neighborhood...some dressed for the occasion while others just marched with their families. Independence Day is a happy day for all!

Today is National Bikini Day!
As swimwear and fashion changed, styles began to use less fabric and became more form-fitting, likely for practical reasons because swimming with a lot of clothes on can be a safety hazard. But modesty continued to be an issue and in the 1920s-40s there were often beach “police” who would monitor the swimsuits women wore. A woman could be sent to jail for wearing a swimsuit that was too revealing! 

The introduction of the bikini in the mid-1940s brought with it a new era of freedom as women began showing their midriffs at the beach and swimming pool. Since the time of its creation in 1946, the bikini has been celebrated as a symbol of a woman’s right to dress as they like. 

Falling at the perfect time in the hot days of summer, National Bikini Day pays heed to the freedom women (and men!) have to wear the swimsuits they want. In a culture that has had a tendency to be body-shaming, this day encourages people of all shapes to forget about the need to look like a swimsuit model and just enjoy themselves!