In need of some swimwear inspiration this summer? We headed to the movie and TV archives in search of the most iconic on-screen men’s and women’s beachside looks of bygone years. We also paired the iconic swimsuits with their 2.0 iterations to help you get the modern day style.
In no particular order, let’s dive in.
1. And God Created Woman (1956)
The white bikini has been a classic summer style since Brigitte Bardot first sported one on the big screen in this romantic drama.
2. Die Another Day (2002)
An orange bikini will forever be synonymous with Halle Berry’s confident ocean emergence in the 20th Bond film.
3. From Here to Eternity (1953)
This Oscar magnet is remembered for not just that kiss, but for Burt Lancaster’s high men’s trunks and Deborah Kerr’s chic black swimsuit that could almost double as a romper.
4. Casino Royale (2006)
Daniel Craig rising from the sea in those blue trunks in his first Bond film caused more commotion than any Bond suit, ever.
5. Blue Hawaii (1961)
Elvis Presley’s short, tight white swim trunks might be Blue Hawaii’s most iconic swimwear, but Joan Blackman’s yellow one-piece deserves some spotlight too.
6. Blue Crush (2002)
Kate Bosworth and her surfer girl companions inspired women everywhere to start mismatching their bikini sets.
7. Suddenly, Last Summer (1959)
Elizabeth Taylor’s character, Catherine Holly, wore this now-legendary, slightly-off shoulder white one-piece to lure potential lovers in this 1959 mystery.
8. Baywatch (1989)
Red swimsuits and red trunks are still an automatic association with Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff in one of the most watched 90s TV shows.